Should I repair my microwave?

Should I repair my microwave?If you’re like most American families, your microwave plays a significant role in helping you put food on the table quickly and easily. Microwaves use highly efficient technology called microwave radiation, which excites the water, fat, and sugar molecules in food to generate heat. Another great thing about microwaves is their price; you can purchase a decent microwave for under $100 and expect it to last for 7 to 10 years.

But when your microwave stops heating or the touchpad is no longer responsive, or a part breaks, you may ask yourself: is it worth replacing? Would it be cheaper and easier to just purchase a new microwave?

Here at Diamond Appliance, we provide customers across St. Louis, Kansas City, and surrounding communities with expert microwave and other appliance repair services. Read on for our tips for understanding when a microwave is worth repairing, and when you should junk it and start fresh.

Microwaves: when to repair…

If your microwave is less than 5 years old and experiences any of the following issues, it is probably cheaper to repair than replace. NOTE: always check to see if your appliance is still under warranty. If so, call the manufacturer to schedule a repair. Diamond is actually the preferred appliance repair service for most major brands. If not under warranty, call Diamond directly to schedule a microwave repair for the following issues:

  • Microwave light does not turn on when the door opens or while the appliance is running.
  • The door to the microwave does not latch or is stuck shut.
  • The microwave touchpad is unresponsive.

…and when to replace. 

If your microwave is older than 5-7 years and/or experiencing any of the following issues, it’s probably time to purchase a new one. While we can fix these issues, the cost of repair would likely be higher than the cost to replace. Here are the issues likely not worth fixing:

  • The microwave makes loud noises while running.
  • When hitting the start button, you hear a buzzing sound.
  • The microwave takes longer than usual to heat food.

Troubleshooting common microwave issues. 

Before calling in a repairman or purchasing a new microwave, it may be helpful to understand more about the most common microwave problems we encounter. Sometimes, simple human error is to blame and the microwave does not actually need to be repaired at all!

  • If your microwave isn’t starting…make sure it is plugged in and the door is shut correctly. If both of those elements are in place, the fuse has likely blown. This can happen when the microwave current becomes too strong or the door is slammed too hard. Another possibility is that the door switch is malfunctioning.
  • If you see sparks…make sure you aren’t microwaving foil or any other type of metal. Sparks may also be caused by food splatters catching light or heat concentrating in one area due to a malfunctioning part.
  • If the turntable will not rotate…make sure the carousel is properly aligned on the turning mechanism. The issue may also stem from a broken or worn-out tray motor or drive brushing.
  • If the microwave turns on but does not heat food...there is likely an issue with a major part, such as the magnetron, diode, or capacitor. You will want to call in a professional for repair or replace the microwave (likely the more cost-effective option).
  • If the touchpad only works some of the time…you may have a water or insect problem behind it. This will either require you to replace the touchpad or purchase a new microwave.

Whether you’re a daily user or only “zap” food when time is tight, a functioning microwave can really come in handy. At Diamond Appliance, we have seen it all when it comes to microwave repair. Proudly providing service on major brands including Maytag microwave repair, KitchenAid microwave repair, Whirlpool appliance repair, and more. Give Diamond a call today with questions and to schedule your microwave repair.