How to Troubleshoot and Repair the Magnetron
Cavity magnetron
The cavity magnetron is a high-powered vacuum tube that generates microwaves using the interaction of a stream of electrons with a magnetic field while moving past a series of open metal cavities (cavity resonators). Bunches of electrons passing by the openings to the cavitie…
Full Answer
How do you change a magnetron?
- Phase: Generation and acceleration of an electron beam in a dc field
- Phase: Velocity-modulation of the electron beam in an ac field
- Phase: Formation of electron bunches by velocity modulation (here in form of a “Space-Charge Wheel”)
- Phase: Dispensing of energy to the ac field
Should I repair or replace my microwave?
When to Replace Your Microwave
- – Microwave Cost Less than Repairs. Low-end and mid-grade microwaves have become so inexpensive as a unit that they can often be purchased for far less money than the cost ...
- – Control Panel Damage or Malfunction. The control panel is the circuit board that handles the functions of the keypad. ...
- – Old Faulty Magnetron. ...
Can microwave oven magnetrons be repaired?
You should never eat anything from an old or broken down microwave oven. If you're asked to repair or replace the magnetron by the manufacturer, ask what kind of magnetron it is before you start work. There are several types of magnetrons, each designed to work with certain types of microwave ovens. Is a magnetron worth replacing?
How do I replace the handle on my microwave?
How to Fix a Broken Microwave Door Handle
- Safety Precautions to Take Before Working on a Microwave. It is vitally important that you take proper safety precautions before doing any repair work on a microwave.
- The Tools You’ll Need to Replace a Microwave Door Handle. ...
- 7 Steps to Replace Your Microwave’s Door Handle. ...
Can you repair magnetron?
Given that a replacement magnetron can cost anywhere from $100-250, not even considering labor if it's done by a professional repair tech (which is strongly recommended), it's an expensive repair, and considering that bigger microwave repairs can be dangerous if the unit isn't properly discharged, you'll often spend as ...
Is it worth replacing a magnetron in a microwave?
No matter how new your microwave or if there's only one problem, if the magnetron is out then you might as well replace the entire appliance. The magnetron is the heart of a microwave that actually makes the micro-waves. Replacing it is about equal to the cost of buying a whole new microwave, sometimes even greater.
What causes a magnetron to fail in a microwave?
The most common cause of an overheating magnetron is when too much energy is reflected back into the device. This can happen when you run your microwave empty (something you should never do), or if the turntable has been removed.
How much does it cost to replace a microwave magnetron?
Replacing a microwave magnetron costs $100 to $200. This includes a part price of $50 to $100 and $50 to $100 for labor. A magnetron is the primary component that produces heat for the appliance. This part creates microwave energy.
How long does a microwave magnetron last?
Although the average life of a magnetron tube is 22 years, a number of factors can cause that number to diminish and for the microwave oven to lose power more quickly.
Is it cheaper to repair a microwave or buy a new one?
The cost to install a new microwave ranges from $110 to $190, plus $100 to $700 for the appliance. Consider a replacement if you have a basic model that can cost as little as $60. High-end microwave models can run from $500 to $1,000, so repairing these devices is often cheaper than replacing them.
What causes a magnetron to stop working?
A magnetron uses high voltage to produce microwave frequency to cook food. If the microwave is turned on when it is empty, this cause the magnetron to burn out. A burned magnetron has to be replaced as it cannot be repaired.
How do I fix my microwave that is not heating?
1:074:04Top Reasons Microwave Is Not Heating - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSince the part is not repairable a burned-out magnetron will need to be replaced with a new one. TheMoreSince the part is not repairable a burned-out magnetron will need to be replaced with a new one. The high voltage capacitor.
Why is my microwave running but not heating?
If the microwave is running but not heating your food, another possibility is the diode has burnt out. A diode allows the electrical current to flow in only one direction. If the diode fails, it could mean there is a short, which will allow the current to flow in both directions, or only part way in one direction.
Can I fix my microwave myself?
All can be tested and replaced to fix a non heating oven. Watch the video. A standard microwave oven is actually a simple device comprising of a transformer, diode, capacitor, a fuse and the magnetron valve. All can be tested and replaced to fix a non heating oven.
How do you test a magnetron?
0:001:20How to Test a Magnetron (MIcrowave) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipNow what you'll want to do now is touch an end to of the plug. And then the casing in differentMoreNow what you'll want to do now is touch an end to of the plug. And then the casing in different areas. And so if it makes a noise that's a problem if it's silent that's good you want the noise.
How long should you keep a microwave before replacing it?
According to Kitchen Seer, you should replace your microwave generally every 10 years. You can replace it after seven or eight years, but if it is in good condition it should last longer. However, the quality of any household appliance depends on how much it's being used.
Why is my microwave working but not heating?
If the microwave is running but not heating your food, another possibility is the diode has burnt out. A diode allows the electrical current to flow in only one direction. If the diode fails, it could mean there is a short, which will allow the current to flow in both directions, or only part way in one direction.
How long should an over the range microwave last?
Over-the-range microwaves are built into the cabinetry and bolted to a wall, so replacing one that conks out is no simple chore. To avoid replacing yours more than about once every 10 years—which is how long most manufacturers tell us they should last—you'll want to take care of it.
How do I fix my microwave that is not heating?
1:074:04Top Reasons Microwave Is Not Heating - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSince the part is not repairable a burned-out magnetron will need to be replaced with a new one. TheMoreSince the part is not repairable a burned-out magnetron will need to be replaced with a new one. The high voltage capacitor.
How to test a magnetron?
TEST 1: Locate your magnetron and label each of the wires attached to it so that you know which wires are to be replaced where. Set your ohmmeter to the lowest resistance scale. Take a resistance measurement between each of the magnetron's terminals by touching each probe to one terminal each. Reverse the probes and take a second resistance ...
Can a microwave shock you?
CAUTION: Your microwave oven is capable of giving you a serious electrical shock, even when it is unplugged. We strongly suggest you seek the assistance of an appliance repair technician when conducting any microwave oven repair.
