Troubleshooting and Repairing Microwave Ovens
Nine out of ten kitchens in America are equipped with a microwave oven. Popular brands include Amana, Sharp and Sony, and there are common problems that owners are bound to encounter. Parts may be purchased online from the manufacturer or a parts distributor. Sharp microwave parts are available at the Sharp website, and other online parts suppliers sell parts directly to the consumer. The first thing to do when an appliance fails is to determine if repairs can be made. In some cases, the appliance will have to be replaced.
Complete Microwave Oven Service Handbook: Operation, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, and Repair
There are a number of minor repairs that are possible to make at home. Common problems include a burned out light bulb, a door that malfunctions or problems with the display. The homeowner who is handy with tools can make these types of repairs without professional help. Always remember that these appliances will emit radiation and they utilize a high voltage capacitor. It is important to take the proper safety precautions before working on them.
Never work on a microwave while it is plugged into the power source. Let the unit sit unplugged for at least sixty seconds to allow the capacitor to discharge. Keep a device handy that measures radiation levels in the area. These can be purchased for about ten dollars at any home improvement center. This can be used to test for any leakage after repairs have been made. Always remove any jewelry including watches. Wear only shoes that have rubber soles.
Changing the light bulb is an easy fix. Let the capacitor discharge before unscrewing the cover over the bulb. Insert the new bulb and replace the cover. A blown fuse is the likely culprit when the display does not work properly. Sharp microwave parts needed in this case include a monitor fuse and a temperature fuse. Consult the manual for the location and check them. For anything more complicated it is best to contact an expert for repairs.
Lots of homeowners don’t realize that fixing their appliances is often just a matter of some tools, spare parts, and time. You can save a lot of money repairing almost any appliance in your home. Frigidaire dishwasher replacement parts, microwave parts, and other appliance parts are easy to find online or at your local hardware store.