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Microwave is tripping circuit breaker: Common Causes & How to Fix

1Microwave Door Switch

Most Common Solution
Repair Instructions:

Most microwaves are equipped with three or four door switches. These switches play a crucial role when you close the microwave door. They work in a sequence to make sure the door is properly shut. If any of these door switches stop working, it can lead to issues like the microwave's line fuse blowing or the circuit breaker tripping. To figure out if any of the door switches are causing problems, you can use a tool called a multimeter to check each switch for continuity, which basically means making sure the electrical flow is smooth. If you find a door switch that doesn't show continuity, it's a sign that the switch is faulty and should be replaced. Remember, microwaves can store a high amount of electricity even when unplugged, which can be dangerous. So, for safety reasons, it's best to let a licensed technician handle the replacement of a door switch.

How to Replace Microwave Door Switch

  1. Prepare for the Replacement

    • Unplug the microwave from the power source to ensure safety.
    • Clear the surrounding area and remove any items near the microwave to create a clean workspace.
  2. Gather the Necessary Tools

    • Check the manufacturer's instructions or the microwave's user manual to identify the specific tools required for the replacement. Typically, you may need a screwdriver, pliers, and possibly other specialized tools.
  3. Locate the Microwave Door Switch

    • The door switch assembly is usually found near the latch mechanism inside the microwave.
    • Consult the microwave's user manual or look for diagrams online to locate the door switch assembly in your specific model.
  4. Remove the Microwave Cover

    • Microwave covers are typically secured with screws. Use the appropriate screwdriver to remove the screws and carefully lift off the cover.
    • Set the cover aside in a safe place.
  5. Identify the Door Switch Assembly

    • Once the cover is removed, locate the door switch assembly. It consists of multiple switches connected by wires and is typically mounted on a bracket.
  6. Disconnect the Wires

    • Take note of the wire connections on the door switch assembly, ensuring you remember how they are connected.
    • Using pliers, gently disconnect the wires from the switches. Be careful not to damage the wires during this process.
  7. Remove the Old Door Switch Assembly

    • The door switch assembly may be held in place by screws or clips. Depending on the model, use the appropriate tools to release and remove the old assembly.
    • Take care not to damage any surrounding components or wires during this process.
  8. Install the New Door Switch Assembly

    • Take the new door switch assembly and ensure it matches the specifications and dimensions of the old assembly.
    • Position the new assembly in the same location where the old one was removed.
    • If necessary, use screws or clips to secure the new assembly in place.
  9. Connect the Wires to the New Assembly

    • Attach the wires to the corresponding switches on the new door switch assembly.
    • Ensure a secure and proper connection by firmly attaching the wires to the switches.
  10. Reassemble the Microwave

    • Carefully place the microwave cover back onto the microwave and secure it with the screws.
    • Ensure all screws are tightened but not overly tightened.
  11. Test the Replacement

    • Plug the microwave back into the power source.
    • Close and open the microwave door multiple times to ensure that the new door switch assembly functions correctly.
    • Verify that the door latches securely and that the microwave operates as expected.
  12. Clean up and Finish

    • Once you have confirmed that the replacement is successful, tidy up your workspace and discard any packaging or old parts.
    • Return any items you removed from the surrounding area back to their original positions.

View Microwave Door Switch parts

2Microwave High Voltage Capacitor

Common Solution
Repair Instructions:

When a microwave keeps causing a circuit breaker to trip, it might be due to a high-voltage capacitor that's gone bad. You can check if the capacitor is shorted by using a tool called a multimeter. Here's how to do it: Connect one multimeter lead to one of the capacitor's terminals and the other lead to the metal casing. If the multimeter shows that there's a continuous electrical connection between any of the capacitor's terminals and the casing, or between the terminals themselves, it means the capacitor is shorted. In simpler terms, electricity is flowing where it shouldn't be, and that's a sign that the capacitor needs to be replaced. This replacement should fix the issue and prevent your microwave from tripping the circuit breaker. It's a simple way to keep your microwave working safely and without any electrical problems.

How to Replace Microwave High Voltage Capacitor

  1. Prepare for the Replacement

    • Unplug the microwave from the power source to ensure safety.
    • Clear the surrounding area and remove any items near the microwave to create a clean workspace.
  2. Gather the Necessary Tools

    • Check the manufacturer's instructions or the microwave's user manual to identify the specific tools required for the replacement. Typically, you may need a screwdriver, pliers, and possibly other specialized tools.
  3. Locate the Microwave High Voltage Capacitor

    • The high voltage capacitor is an essential component responsible for storing electrical energy for the microwave's operation.
    • Consult the microwave's user manual or look for diagrams online to identify the capacitor's location in your specific model.
  4. Discharge the Capacitor

    • Capacitors store electrical energy even when the microwave is unplugged, posing a potential shock hazard.
    • Before replacing the high voltage capacitor, discharge it by following the manufacturer's instructions or using a discharge tool designed for capacitors.
    • Take appropriate safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and avoiding direct contact with the capacitor terminals.
  5. Remove the Microwave Cover

    • Microwave covers are typically secured with screws. Use the appropriate screwdriver to remove the screws and carefully lift off the cover.
    • Set the cover aside in a safe place.
  6. Identify the High Voltage Capacitor

    • Once the cover is removed, locate the high voltage capacitor on the circuit board or near the magnetron.
    • The capacitor is typically cylindrical in shape and has wires connected to it.
  7. Disconnect the Wires

    • Take note of the wire connections on the capacitor, ensuring you remember how they are connected.
    • Using pliers, gently grip the wire connectors attached to the capacitor.
    • Carefully pull the connectors away from the capacitor to detach them. Take note of their positions and ensure you remember how they were connected.
  8. Remove the Old High Voltage Capacitor

    • The capacitor may be held in place by clips or mounting brackets. Depending on the model, use the appropriate tools to release and remove the old capacitor.
    • Take care not to damage any surrounding components or wires during this process.
  9. Install the New High Voltage Capacitor

    • Take the new high voltage capacitor and ensure it matches the specifications and dimensions of the old capacitor.
    • Position the new capacitor in the same location where the old one was removed.
    • If necessary, use clips or mounting brackets to secure the new capacitor in place.
  10. Connect the Wires to the New Capacitor

    • Attach the wire connectors to the corresponding terminals on the new capacitor.
    • Ensure a secure and proper connection by pushing the connectors firmly onto the terminals.
  11. Reassemble the Microwave

    • Carefully place the microwave cover back onto the microwave and secure it with the screws.
    • Ensure all screws are tightened but not overly tightened.
  12. Test the Replacement

    • Plug the microwave back into the power source.
    • Turn on the microwave and run a test to verify that it is functioning correctly.
    • Check for any unusual behavior or issues with the microwave's operation.
  13. Clean up and Finish

    • Once you have confirmed that the replacement is successful, tidy up your workspace and discard any packaging or old parts.
    • Return any items you removed from the surrounding area back to their original positions.

View Microwave High Voltage Capacitor parts

3Microwave Magnetron

Common Solution
Repair Instructions:

If your microwave keeps causing the circuit breaker to trip, it might be because the magnetron is having problems. To check if the magnetron is shorted, you can use a multimeter. Here's how to do it: Connect one multimeter lead to one of the magnetron's terminals and the other lead to the metal casing. If the multimeter shows that there's a continuous electrical connection between any of the magnetron's terminals and the casing, it means the magnetron is shorted. In simpler terms, there's an electrical issue where there shouldn't be, which indicates that the magnetron needs replacing. By replacing the magnetron, you can fix the problem and stop your microwave from tripping the circuit breaker. This simple step will ensure your microwave works safely and doesn't cause any electrical disruptions.

How to Replace Microwave Magnetron

  1. Prepare for the Replacement

    • Unplug the microwave from the power source to ensure safety.
    • Clear the surrounding area and remove any items near the microwave to create a clean workspace.
  2. Gather the Necessary Tools

    • Check the manufacturer's instructions or the microwave's user manual to identify the specific tools required for the replacement. Typically, you may need a screwdriver, pliers, and possibly other specialized tools.
  3. Locate the Microwave Magnetron

    • The magnetron is the main heating element of the microwave and is usually located near the top or side of the microwave's interior.
    • Consult the microwave's user manual or look for diagrams online to identify the magnetron's location in your specific model.
  4. Remove the Microwave Cover

    • Microwave covers are typically secured with screws. Use the appropriate screwdriver to remove the screws and carefully lift off the cover.
    • Set the cover aside in a safe place.
  5. Disconnect the Magnetron Wires

    • Take note of the wire connections on the magnetron, ensuring you remember how they are connected.
    • Using pliers, carefully disconnect the wires from the terminals of the magnetron. Be gentle to avoid damaging the wires or terminals.
  6. Remove the Old Magnetron

    • The magnetron is typically held in place by mounting screws and brackets. Locate and remove the screws using the appropriate screwdriver.
    • Carefully detach the magnetron from any brackets or supports, taking note of its position and orientation for the replacement.
  7. Install the New Magnetron

    • Take the new magnetron and ensure it matches the specifications and dimensions of the old magnetron.
    • Position the new magnetron in the same location where the old one was removed, aligning it with any brackets or supports.
    • Use the mounting screws to secure the new magnetron in place, ensuring it is firmly attached.
  8. Connect the Wires to the New Magnetron

    • Attach the wires to the corresponding terminals on the new magnetron.
    • Ensure a secure and proper connection by firmly attaching the wires to the terminals.
  9. Reassemble the Microwave

    • Carefully place the microwave cover back onto the microwave and secure it with the screws.
    • Ensure all screws are tightened but not overly tightened.
  10. Test the Replacement

    • Plug the microwave back into the power source.
    • Run a test by heating a small microwave-safe item to ensure the new magnetron functions correctly.
    • Check for any unusual noises, sparks, or issues during operation.
  11. Clean up and Finish

    • Once you have confirmed that the replacement is successful, tidy up your workspace and discard any packaging or old parts.
    • Return any items you removed from the surrounding area back to their original positions.

View Microwave Magnetron parts

4Microwave High Voltage Transformer

Common Solution
Repair Instructions:

If your microwave keeps causing the circuit breaker to trip, the issue might be a shorted high-voltage transformer. This kind of problem with the transformer can often result in sparking and a burnt smell. To clarify, when a high-voltage transformer shorts out, it essentially means that electricity is taking the wrong path and this can lead to visible sparks and a distinct burnt odor. These signs usually indicate that the transformer is damaged and causing the circuit breaker to trip. If you notice these symptoms, it's essential to address the issue. The high-voltage transformer may need replacement, which should resolve the problem and prevent the circuit breaker from tripping. This step ensures your microwave operates safely and without any electrical disruptions.

How to Replace Microwave High Voltage Transformer

  1. Prepare for the Replacement

    • Unplug the microwave from the power source to ensure safety.
    • Clear the surrounding area and remove any items near the microwave to create a clean workspace.
  2. Gather the Necessary Tools

    • Check the manufacturer's instructions or the microwave's user manual to identify the specific tools required for the replacement. Typically, you may need a screwdriver, pliers, and possibly other specialized tools.
  3. Locate the Microwave High Voltage Transformer

    • The high voltage transformer is responsible for converting the incoming electrical power to the high voltage required by the microwave.
    • Consult the microwave's user manual or look for diagrams online to identify the transformer's location in your specific model.
  4. Remove the Microwave Cover

    • Microwave covers are typically secured with screws. Use the appropriate screwdriver to remove the screws and carefully lift off the cover.
    • Set the cover aside in a safe place.
  5. Identify the High Voltage Transformer

    • Once the cover is removed, locate the high voltage transformer on the circuit board or inside the microwave's interior.
    • The transformer is usually a large, rectangular component with wires connected to it.
  6. Disconnect the Wires

    • Take note of the wire connections on the transformer, ensuring you remember how they are connected.
    • Using pliers, gently grip the wire connectors attached to the transformer.
    • Carefully pull the connectors away from the transformer to detach them. Take note of their positions and ensure you remember how they were connected.
  7. Remove the Old High Voltage Transformer

    • The transformer may be secured with mounting screws or clips. Depending on the model, use the appropriate tools to release and remove the old transformer.
    • Take care not to damage any surrounding components or wires during this process.
  8. Install the New High Voltage Transformer

    • Take the new high voltage transformer and ensure it matches the specifications and dimensions of the old transformer.
    • Position the new transformer in the same location where the old one was removed.
    • If necessary, use mounting screws or clips to secure the new transformer in place.
  9. Connect the Wires to the New Transformer

    • Attach the wire connectors to the corresponding terminals on the new transformer.
    • Ensure a secure and proper connection by pushing the connectors firmly onto the terminals.
  10. Reassemble the Microwave

    • Carefully place the microwave cover back onto the microwave and secure it with the screws.
    • Ensure all screws are tightened but not overly tightened.
  11. Test the Replacement

    • Plug the microwave back into the power source.
    • Turn on the microwave and run a test to verify that it is functioning correctly.
    • Check for any unusual behavior or issues with the microwave's operation.
  12. Clean up and Finish

    • Once you have confirmed that the replacement is successful, tidy up your workspace and discard any packaging or old parts.
    • Return any items you removed from the surrounding area back to their original positions.

View Microwave High Voltage Transformer parts
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