Microwave over the range with exhaust fan: Best Over-the-Range Microwaves of 2023

10 Best Over The Range Microwave 2023

Are you in search of ways to have a more spacious countertop? Kitchens are often the most commonly used area of the house; however, it is also the smallest.

The introduction of over-the-range microwaves in the market has been a relief to many homeowners. However, choosing one is a lot more challenging.

We aim to help make the purchasing decision easy for you. So, in this article, we gathered the best over the range microwave this 2023.

Our Top Choices for OTR Microwave Ovens

Now that you have the basic ideas on what attributes to take into account when choosing the right over the range microwave for your kitchen, below are five of the best over the range microwave we have meticulously gathered and researched for you.

1. Frigidaire FGMV176NTF 30″ Gallery Series (Rating: 4.3)

 

The Frigidaire FGMV176NTF microwave has more than 30 cooking alternatives and has a sensor cook that automatically adjusts the level of power without additional input. If the food is still not warm, you can even access an EffortlessTM Reheat with a single button.

If all of that is still too hard, use the Sensor Cook option, and the microwave adjusts the power and cooking times automatically based on the prepared dish. Two people will not have to fight to use the microwave, because the SpaceWise rack can microwave at least two plates simultaneously.

Pros

  • With the Effortless Clean Interior surface, remove and wipe down spills from your microwave easily.
  • The microwave calibrates power and cooking times automatedly to cook a range of items without too much effort.
  • Make food preparation, and cooking easy with LED lighting, giving a bright and luminous view of the cooktop.
  • SpaceWise Rack generates more space so that you can simultaneously cook several meals.
  • Easy-to-use buttons for cooking that enable you to add 30 seconds with a single press of a button.
  • Big bowls and big dishes of casserole are not a problem for this huge turntable glass. It rotates to create a uniformly cooked meal.

Cons

  • Constant beeping even when the timer has stopped.

 

​2. GE JNM3163DJBB Over-the-Range Microwave (Rating: 4.2)

 

GE JNM3163DJBB is a 950 watt 1.6 cubic meter model with a controller keyboard that is simple to use and easy to understand.  This system provides six pre-programmed cooking functions to manage some of your favorites on a single touch.

Auto frosting and reheating functionalities reduce power output so you don’t overcook food you would like to warm up but don’t want to cook. If you do not want one-touch controls, you can use standard energy configurations, and you can also switch off the turntable operation.

This GE microwave model is available in silver, black, and white, making it a multifunctional design for all kitchens. This model includes a 2-speed ventilation mechanism to prevent smoke and steam from stovetop cooking and a light touch control system to supply over the lighting of the stove.

The sleek appearance on the outside of the microwave blends with other kitchen appliances, and the color options guarantee that this device is suitable for any variety of kitchen colors.

Pros

  • For maximum results, Auto and Time Defrost are configured manually or automatically.
  • The integrated two-speed, 300 CFM ventilation system helps to improve the quality of the kitchen air by removing fumes, heat, and odors from your stove.
  • Cooking controls electronically and conveniently make this oven fast and straightforward to operate.
  • Switching on / off is perfect for uniformly cooking results or accommodating excessive meals that may not spin completely.
  • Optional night lighting is provided by cooktop illumination over the spectrum.
  • You may choose the appropriate amount of ventilation from 2 variable fan preset modes.
  • A replaceable carbon filter removes oil and other impurities from the air.

Cons

  • For bigger cooking jobs, this device is maybe a little underpowered.
  • This unit has a warranty limited to a year.
  • Do not allow baking.

 

​3. Farberware FMO16AHTBSA 1300-Watt Microwave Oven (Rating: 3.9)

 

With the Farberware Black 1.6 cu, introduce a sense of class to your kitchen.  The sleek, premium Black Stainless Steel design of the Farberware Black Microwave Ovens raises the traditional stylish look, with a lighter and warmer structure, to minimize fingerprints, slugs, and other unpleasant marks. Smart sensor cooking enables you to start preparing menu options and reheat meals with accuracy.

Its advanced inverter precision cooking technology ensures that nutrients are not overcooked and lost. A power save method can save your energy in the absence of the microwave. Events like 1-3-minute start-up features, 30-second control button, ten levels of power control, inverter defrost, and memory function can guess food preparations.

The multiple-stage cooking feature adjusts the mid-cycle cooking rate so that an ideal result is achieved. 6 One-touch cooking software lets you in seconds warm-up everyday products. Other functionalities include an easy-to-use tidy inside with a purple LED display, a kitchen timer and a clock, and a children’s safety lock.

Pros

  • Innovative Inverter Cooking Precision Technology helps to prevent excessive cooking and nutrient loss.
  • Multi-stage kitchen functionality adjusts the mid-cycle cooking level to ensure a smooth finish.
  • 6 One-touch cooking systems enable you to warm regular meals within seconds.
  • The elegant Black Stainless Steel structure elevates the traditional tubular metal image to a lighter and hotter texture, helping to decrease fingerprints, stains, and other unwanted features.
  • An Energy Saver power mode can save energy if the microwave isn’t in operation.

Cons

  • The Black Stainless Steel design makes it difficult to see the food inside.

 

​4. GE JVM6172DKWW White Microwave Oven (Rating: 3.

9)

 

GE 1.7 cu. ft Microwave Oven in White over the Range Sensor has a capacity of 1000 Watts. Two CFM ventilator systems remove smoke, odors, and steam from a cooktop quickly to ensure that kitchen air is clean and fresh.

With defrost time and weight,  you enter the food weight, and the Oven sets the ideal time and power level to defrost or you set the desired time. The melting characteristic enables the carefree melting of butter, cheese, chocolate, and caramel.

Pros

  • The cooking sensor establishes the ideal time and energy level automatically.
  • 1.000-Watt heating capacity and ten levels of cooking for reheating, defrosting and boiling.
  • The built-in 300 CFM 2-Speed ventilation system improves the air quality of the kitchen by reducing dust, steam, and odors.
  • This microwave is easy to use with visual display electronic controls.
  • 1.7 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for small casserole dishes
  • The melting cycle offers heat for the softening of chocolate or butter.
  • Turntable on / off is suitable for uniform cooking results or the accommodation of oversized dishes.
  • Cooktop lighting offers two brightness adjustments over the range, along with a nightlight option.
  • You can choose the correct amount of cooling by two fan speed configurations.
  • The kit includes a recirculating charcoal filter.

Cons

  • Limited 1-year warranty.

 

​5. LG LMV2031ST Stainless Steel (Rating: 3.9)

 

The LG LMV2031ST Stainless Steel Microwave is perfect for anyone looking for a more significant capacitance option for space. This microwave has a power of 1000 watts and a venting scheme of 400 CFM. The detector processing technique is used to thoroughly cook meat while avoiding overcooking owing to the cooking time or extremely high energy consumption.

This LG microwave is designed in and outside of the device with an easy-to-clean layout. The control panel offers a wide variety of cooking features and enables you to use the rack insert for uniform cooking choices.

Pros

  • With a thermal capacity of 1000 watts, you can make distinct dishes and decrease the energy to many levels.
  • The guide is self-explanatory and understandable.
  • This microwave stove is very comfortable and quiet and operates well over the range.

Cons

  • This microwave can be noisy, mainly when working on the higher setting.
  • The light on top of the stove is very dim and needs lights in your kitchen.

 

How to Choose the Best Over-the-Range Microwave

The microwave that is placed above a stove and beneath a wall of high shelves is called an over the range microwave. It can likewise be mounted in a cabinet or on a rack above a range. The significant benefit of the over the range microwave is that it removes the oven from the countertop and saves valuable space for meal preparation.

This type of microwave, which incorporates a range hood and microwave, is an excellent way to save storage and achieve maximum function. The kitchen equipment usually features ventilation in the oven’s structure. The integrated controllers range from 170 CFM to an energy boost of 400 CFM supporters to slow down all smoke, warmness, and odor throughout the entire kitchen.

While an over the range microwave has several benefits, it might be much harder to select the finest one than you might imagine. There is a range of designs and elements to be considered before choosing an over the range microwave, which will make it a challenge to find the most exquisite model. Below are important points you need to consider.

1. Where to Install the Microwave

An over the range microwave is supposed to be mounted over the range, but you really shouldn’t necessarily setup that way. You can also put it inside or under a cabinet that is not situated over a stove. Before selecting one, make sure that you understand where to position your microwave.

2. Size

External

Size might not be the biggest consideration, but it could also be a significant factor. Usually, you don’t have a lot of selection when it in terms of spaces for over the range microwaves.

Before deciding to buy one, you will also need to measure the area allocated for your microwave, or you might have to decide to return it. The depth of the adjacent cupboards should also be compared with the fine detail of the microwave to ensure their right fit.

Internal

Once you understand the external size that fits appropriately above your kitchen range, the food that you plan to cook also needs to be determined. The capacity in the interior can be from 1.1 cubic feet to over cubic feet.

You would preferably want something to have a big capacity when deciding on the size of the microwave you wish to purchase. Some big capacity over the range microwave models operates better for those who want to boil or use a microwave for significant cooking activities for a big household.

3. Power

Another point to take into account is the strength and the purpose you want your microwave to be. Are you planning to make whole dishes? Do you want to use them now and then to make a bag of popcorn or heat the leftovers?

Your choice of the model that gives you the power to use this microwave will be influenced by the type of food you intend to prepare. For example, you will have to choose a unit with more power than something that you only use to warm up the leftovers and snacks if you need your microwave to prepare regular meals. The ideal wattage for your microwave would be at least 1000 watts.

4. Convection versus Convention

Conventional microwaves often move through food boxes to boil the meals via microwaves. Microwave-convection combines the fundamental technology of microwave and cooling by radiation. Not only from top and bottom, but they also provide heat from behind to guarantee that your meal is cooked uniformly.

An over the counter, convective-mode microwave oven allows baking, roasting, browning, and grilling. So, you will need a convection model if you wish to use the microwave to prepare more specialized recipes. A convection mode is not necessary if the microwave is used only for fast basic cooking or reheating.

5. Venting

One of the best things about this type of microwave is that they offer a venting feature. Which means that these microwaves can also function as venting hoods that control smoke, odors. Venting power is indicated as CFM (cubic feet per minute). One of the most significant factors about this microwave form is that it offers a ventilation function. This implies that these microwaves may likewise work as smoke-or odor-controlling venting hoods.

Venting power is expressed as CFM (cubic feet per minute). The greater the CFM, the higher the airflow, the more pronounced the venting power function in clearing the air in the kitchen area. At least 300 should be the acceptable CPM rate.

Some microwaves could only activate vents individually, while some have vents that instantly activate when the heat is identified. Some designs have two or maybe more fans that are more effective at clearing smoke and smells. If you are cooking much on your stove, look for a well-ventilated model.

These microwaves over the range also give the alternative of non-venting or venting according to positioning and preference. One ventilated model sends outdoor exhaust while non-venting, through a carbon filter, redistributes the air indoors.

6. Sensors

Sensors spare you the pain of figuring out the cooking temperature and time by adjusting the heat and the timer automatically according to the humidity generated by your food inside the microwave.

7. Appearance

While the appearance of the microwave doesn’t affect its performance, it affects your kitchen appearance. As it’s an apparatus prominently featured in your kitchen, you need something that matches your kitchen appearance. As you may have realized, businesses try to deliver models with various designs. Choose one that matches your taste and kitchen.

Benefits of Over-the-Range Microwave

In the design of a kitchen, you also have to imagine the equipment that will make your kitchen more comfortable and functional. There are many microwave designs you can choose from. Don’t think about discovering the most exceptional countertop microwave, mainly if your kitchen is small. One right way to save space is to splurge on an over the range microwave.

The most significant benefit of an over the range microwave is that it saves space, which is indispensable in small kitchen areas where it’s challenging to fit all the necessary appliances. Setting up the microwave at an area that enables you to use it is simpler to save space rather than putting it all on your kitchen table.

Most kitchens need a hood, which removes the smell, smoke, and the steam of the food to keep the air fresh and clean. Because of the integrated fans, the over the range microwave also operates as a hood, indicating that there are two items in one, which increases functionality.

FAQ

How long should an over-the-range microwave last?

Conclusion

The decisions may consume you if you are looking for an over the range microwave. They are available in several different styles so that you can find an option to match your other kitchen equipment.

You may want to match the various microwave alternatives with characteristics that are better suited to your needs. Some are designed with fewer buttons and controls for easy use. The other configurations and preset features have many distinct alternatives, making them suitable for those who commonly use the microwave.

When you select an over the range, it is essential to assess your storage. Over the range microwaves are available in various dimensions intended to stretch over the area. Most of them have a fan that you can activate when you fry food to maintain the safe in the kitchen. Some of them also have lights that provide additional lighting when you cook or clean.

Our archive contains a wealth of information on similar topics – take a look!

Install an over-the-range microwave oven

by Michael Chotiner
(Technical diagrams courtesy Whirlpool Corporation)

Like all disruptive technologies, microwave cooking is controversial. Most people don’t really understand how microwaves work or how to use all of their available features. An estimated 90% of families in the U.S. use microwaves to cook and/or reheat foods, yet this handy appliance continues to take flak from chefs and foodies.

I can speak to some other contentious issues with authority: Many folks want built-in microwaves rather than freestanding models, to save usable counter space, but installers complain that the available sizes of microwave ovens don’t really correspond to the typical dimensions of stock cabinets and other objects that must be coordinated in kitchen layouts, so it’s often difficult to line things up for seamless visual effect without filler panels and other contrivances.

Size Matters!

Microwave ovens designed for use by consumers are available in three size classes: Compact, Mid-size and Full Size.

While the size of a microwave oven expressed in cubic feet gives you an idea of whether it’s too small for much more than heating up a cup of coffee or large enough to roast a turkey, it tells you nothing about the overall width, height and depth of the appliance — important to know if you’re planning to build-in. Pro installers complain that many spec sheets purporting to give the overall dimensions do so inaccurately. I know one contractor who won’t start to build a microwave cabinet until he has the actual unit in hand.

If you look at all of the available variants of microwave ovens on the market in terms of width, height and depth, you’ll see that there really are no standard sizes, but microwaves designed for over-the-range installation all fit into a 30-in. wide space.

The Over-The-Range Microwave Option

Purpose-made microwaves are available with handy kits for installing them over a range, but OTR installations aren’t always simple. Here are some issues to consider:

Ventilation: All microwave ovens have a built-in blower for a recirculating venting system. Most microwaves designed for over-the-range installation offer two more options for venting to the outdoors: The blower can be positioned to direct exhaust air up and out through the roof via ductwork above the unit or horizontally through ductwork in the wall behind the unit. While microwaves themselves don’t need venting to the outdoors, when they’re installed over a range or cooktop, vents for carrying odors, moisture and grease from conventional cooking out through the roof or an exterior wall should be provided, if possible.

Installed height: For safety and convenience, you don’t want to install an OTR microwave too high. The National Kitchen and Bath Association says that the bottom of the microwave to be no higher than 54 inches off the floor. If anyone likely to use the microwave is shorter than, say 5’4″, even the recommended standard might be uncomfortably high.

Clearance between stovetop and bottom of microwave: Building codes and other standards are inconsistent on the allowed clearance between a stove top and anything above it. At least one existing rule allows a minimum of 13 inches, but pro installers and others who know their way around kitchens argue that there should be 20 to 24 inches of clearance above the stove top.

(A note from NH:  I received a note on this height issue from a reader so some clarification is necessary.  Both height locations are general recommendations.

The height above the floor is to accommodate people of various heights to be able to comfortably use the microwave and read the display. The distance above the range top is 1) to allow for the widest range of kitchen pots and pans and also to allow full visibility of the range top to all but the tallest people and 2) to accommodate the normal distance that the manufacturer recommends.

There is some variability… taller people might want the microwave installed higher! Of course, the top cabinet may need to be modified or replaced in any installation if the microwave needs to be moved higher. I think the author may have been trying to cover all bases, but in any installation I have done the first order of business is to use the manufacturer’s recommendations as to the MINIMUM distance to the cooktop. This protects the microwave from excessive heat which could be an issue with some models if mounted too close to the range.

I don’t know for sure, but the manufacturer’s height recommendation might also include an optimal height for the exhaust fan to have the most effect, though admittedly above the range microwave fans in general are not as good as a strong range hood!)

Preparation for installation

Long story short: To install an over-the-range microwave oven, you need to have enough space between wall cabinets flanking the range and between the cooktop and ceiling. There should be a cabinet or shelf above the spot where the microwave will be installed so that you can fasten the top of the microwave to it. Most OTR microwaves are just under 30 in. wide; heights vary from about 10 to 18 inches and depths vary from 12 to about 18 inches. You need to choose a model that allows adequate clearance above the range but can be installed at a comfortable height.

  • Determine that the space between wall cabinets flanking the range is at least 30 inches. If the space is wider, determine about how you’ll fill the space between the sides of the installed microwave and the flanking cabinets. Some OTR microwave kits include filler strips, or you can order filler panels that match your cabinets from the manufacturer or a cabinet shop.
  • If a wall cabinet is present above the range, measure the distance between the top of the range and the bottom of the cabinet. Subtract 20 inches (or whatever minimum between the microwave and cooktop suits you) from that distance to determine the overall height of a microwave that will fit. You may find that you’ll need to cut down the wall cabinet or install another of suitable height before starting the microwave installation.
  • If a vented range hood is present, turn off power to the circuit by flipping the breaker, and disconnect the blower wiring. Remove the hood and determine if a suitable outlet into which you can plug the installed OTR microwave is present nearby. If not, have a professional electrician install one.

How to Install an Over-the Range Microwave Oven

All OTR microwave kits come with detailed instructions. Read them before starting your installation. Most manufacturers include templates in the package. You’ll need these to lay out the holes that need to be bored in the wall behind the microwave and in the wall cabinet above for fasteners. In other cases there’s a wall plate attached to the back of the microwave that must be unscrewed from the machine and held up against the back wall to so you can mark the fastener layout.

1. Find and mark the position of at least one stud in the wall behind where the microwave will be installed.
You can try using a stud finder (I’ve never had much luck with them), or look for fasteners inside the wall cabinets and measure in 16-inch increments over toward the wall where the microwave will be mounted. Wall studs are usually spaced 16 inches on-center, so you should be able to project the stud positions. Don’t be afraid to probe around with your drill to make sure that you find something solid.

Example of a wall-mounted support plate for an
over-the-range microwave installation.

2. Hold the microwave wall template in position against the wall and mark the positions of the required fasteners.
At least one of those fasteners must go into a stud; where no stud is present, drill holes for toggle bolts. Fasten the back plate to the wall and check it for level and plumb.

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Typical template for marking fastener locations
and cutouts on the cabinet above a microwave.

3. Position the template for the fasteners that will join the top of the microwave to the bottom shelf of the cabinet above it and make your marks.
That template should also help you lay out the position of the opening that will need to be cut for the exhaust damper and for the microwave power cord, which will most likely plug into an outlet inside of that cabinet. Drill the holes and make other cutouts as needed, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

4. Following the manufacturer’s instructions, orient the blower for roof, through-the-wall or recirculating venting as needed.

With the bottom back edge engaged in the wall support plate,
the microwave is rotated upward to bring the top of the housing up
to meet the bottom of the wall cabinet above.

The power cord is threaded through the bottom of the cabinet
to bring it to a grounded outlet inside. Bolts through the bottom shelf
must be threaded through pre-drilled holes into mounting holes
in the top of the microwave.

With a helper, lift the microwave into its approximate position. Thread the power cord through holes in the cabinets, as needed, so it can ultimately be plugged into its receptacle. Trying not to strain or snag the power cord, tilt the microwave so you can engage the bottom back edge with the retaining strip on the wall plate. Then rotate the front end upward to get the top of the microwave tight against the bottom of the upper cabinet. With the helper supporting, thread the bolts provided in the kit through the holes you’ve pre-drilled in the bottom shelf of the cabinet and into the mounting holes in the top of the microwave. Use all of the fasteners recommended by the manufacturer and check the installed unit for level and plumb.

Ductwork for outside venting can be connected to
the microwave’s blower/damper and concealed inside the cabinet.

Options for venting over-the-range microwaves to the outdoors
include through-the-roof and through-the-wall ductwork assemblies.

5.Connect the blower/damper assembly to the ductwork with the appropriate fitting — usually a 3-1/4-in. X 10-in. rectangular-to-round transition.

Plug ‘Er in and heat up a cup of coffee, or soften a pint of your favorite ice cream and eat it all up. You will have earned it. Now enjoy having a microwave that’s out of the way yet entirely convenient.

About the author:  Michael Chotiner is an expert on appliance installation, and writes on his experiences for Home Depot. Michael’s appliance installation tips for microwave ovens are based on his years as a general contractor. Home Depot’s selection of microwave ovens, including models mentioned by Michael, can be viewed on its website.

Mystery microwave exhaust fan not working

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The following causes when the microwave exhaust fan does not work are listed from most likely to least likely. Check or test each cause, starting with the most likely causes.

Cause 1 Exhaust fan motor

To determine if the exhaust fan motor is defective, remove it from the microwave and try turning the fan blades by hand. If the blades do not rotate freely, then replace it. If the fan blades are spinning freely, then use a multimeter to test the motor for power input and continuity. If the motor receives current but does not run, replace it. If the continuity of the engine is broken, then replace it.

Cause 2 Thermostat

The thermostat controls the air temperature and turns on the fan if necessary. If the thermostat is defective, it will not turn on the exhaust fan at all. Use a multimeter to check the continuity of the thermostat. If the thermostat is not continuous, replace it.

Cause 3 Main control board

The main control board may be defective, but this is rare. Before replacing the control board, first check the exhaust fan motor and wiring. If the exhaust fan motor is not receiving power, the main control board may be defective.

Other Mystery microwave problems

• Microwave does not heat up
• Microwave not working
• Microwave light not working
• Microwave oven turns off after a few seconds
• Microwave turntable does not turn
• Microwave oven buttons do not work
• Microwave display not working
• Microwave turns on by itself
• Microwave sparks or arcs
• Microwave oven door does not open
• Microwave exhaust fan not working
• The microwave oven makes loud noises or noises
• Error codes – microwave oven Mystery
• Video on the repair of the microwave oven Mystery
• How to sell your microwave Mystery

  1. DIY Mystery microwave repair
  2. Mystery microwave oven problems
  3. Microwave Mystery
  4. Mystery Microwave Oven Error Codes
  5. Mystery Microwave Parts
  6. Mystery

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Sparks microwave: reasons | Read on the Kharkiv Repair blog

The microwave oven is one of the commonly used household appliances. With it, you can quickly heat up dishes or prepare culinary delights. Modern microwave ovens can do much more than just heat food: many models are equipped with a grill and other additional features. These devices are easy to use, but certain rules of use and care must be followed. If your microwave starts to spark, it may be a sign of a malfunction or misuse. The microwave is an essential part of the kitchen and is used in most homes.

If you’ve witnessed a microwave sparkle, it can be quite an unsettling sight. However, the first thing to do in this situation is not to panic. This problem is usually relatively easy to fix if you can find the cause. Sparks in a microwave oven are usually caused by microwaves hitting a metal object inside the appliance. Metals conduct electricity with lots of electrons that are free to move around.

Microwaves are absorbed by fats and sugars in foods. If metal is placed in the appliance, the microwaves cause the electrons to move around, causing sparks and heat. Sparks are simply caused by a collection of charged particles that create a concentrated electric field at the edge of a metal object. Consider the most common causes of sparks in the microwave. If your microwave sparks, then the reason may be as follows:

1. Metal in the microwave. It is a mistake to place a cup or plate with a spoon in the microwave. Metal objects must not be placed in these devices. It is important that whenever sparks are found inside your appliance, it should be stopped and the power turned off. This will prevent further damage and help prevent a fire. In most cases, sparks appear in the appliance, probably due to the fact that you accidentally left a spoon, fork or food in foil in the microwave. As soon as the sparks begin to fly, you need to remove the metal object as soon as possible. This will prevent damage such as holes in the case. However, it is recommended to check the instrument before reuse.

2. Broken microwave guide cover. In rare cases, if the microwave oven is used frequently or subjected to mechanical stress, the waveguide cover that allows the waves to pass through the food may come loose. Also, if your food explodes inside the microwave, something can get stuck under this cover and get inside the microwave. When this happens, sparks are formed. The appliance needs to be checked by a repair technician, who can get the appliance running again while keeping your home safe.

3. Faulty diode. The diode is an integral part of the device and is used to switch the microwave signals. Because they are used frequently, they sometimes wear out. This causes sparks and sometimes short circuits. This breakdown will be accompanied by a loud buzzing sound. If the diode malfunctions, the microwave oven will not heat food and make noise. This malfunction will be indicated by visual signs and the smell of burning.

4. Certain foods have been placed in the machine. Some foods, such as raw vegetables, should not be cooked in the microwave. Because they contain a lot of iron. To cook these foods in the microwave, use a suitable container filled with some water and then cover. This will cook the food evenly.

5. Protective cap has not been used. Fatty foods can cause small sparks with oil splashes. Never forget to use the plastic cover that comes with the device. The sparks will be accompanied by your microwave crackling.

6. Mica plate is damaged or worn. If sparks still occur after cleaning the mica plate, check if it is damaged. Cracks, holes, or burnt areas can cause permanent sparks. In this case, it is recommended to replace the mica plate. You can order this spare part from the manufacturer or purchase it yourself, cut it to size and install it in your device. Plates that are already cut to size in a universal format and fit all microwave ovens.

Replacing the mica plate is very easy and fast. This detail is recognizable by its gray color, it is attached to one of the side walls of the chamber. Simply screw on the new plate or insert it into the holders provided. If any of these problems occur with your instrument, it means that the components need to be replaced by a professional. Don’t wait until the microwave burns out, start fixing the problem as soon as possible.

Microwave malfunctions: types of malfunctions

Almost all models of microwave ovens have the same design, so they fail almost evenly. Having figured out why the microwave sparks, check out other household appliance malfunctions.

Important! All malfunctions of the device are the result of misuse or careless handling of the device, since a manufacturing defect also occurs during the warranty period, and the service center will fix it free of charge.

Before you find an error and how to fix your microwave, first read the safety instructions for this appliance:

  1. Do not turn on the microwave if the fan is not running.
  2. Before carrying out any manipulations with the elements of the furnace, it is necessary to disconnect the device from the mains.
  3. Be sure to remove all small parts after completing the repair.
  4. A non-metallic water tank is placed in the chamber to test the device.

Before disassembling the microwave oven, take a photo of yourself so that you can easily reassemble it later.

The most ideal way to determine the root causes of a problem and diagnose the problem is to read the information in the instruction manual. Each device model has its own characteristics, which directly depend on the manufacturer.

  1. Microwave plate does not turn. The turntable in your microwave oven is essential for even cooking. In order to do this, it must constantly rotate in order to cook food evenly. If your cymbal is not spinning, this may be due to some malfunction. Check the plate first and look at the guide rollers under the plate. Then check for cracks on the plate.
  2. The microwave does not turn on. Of course, your microwave is completely useless if it does not turn on and does not respond to button presses. A microwave oven that won’t turn on can experience a variety of problems. Start by checking the outlet to make sure the microwave is connected to a power source. Also check that the outlet is working properly. Perhaps it’s something completely different – the door. The microwave oven will not turn on if the appliance thinks the door is open.
  3. Microwave oven door does not close properly. In older appliances, the door usually stops closing properly. This often happens because the hinges or springs are loose. When the door is not closed, heat and odors may escape from the microwave oven, resulting in other malfunctions. Microwave oven door that does not latch. Take a close look at the door latch and hinges, tighten loose screws, and replace damaged parts.
  4. Microwave oven door jammed. Sometimes the microwave oven door may jam. This is especially common in microwave ovens that have a push release door switch. If your microwave oven door is stuck, try opening the door with your own tools. After you open the door, proceed to repair it.
  5. The microwave does not turn off. Another problem may be that your microwave does not stop working when the timer expires. This one should be of concern to you as it will do much more than just overcook the food. You may have to force open the door or unplug the appliance to stop it. In this case, pay attention to electronic components that may be defective. The door lock switch may not work.
  6. Microwave does not heat food. When the microwave oven is already old, then you will probably run into a problem when it does not heat food. If your microwave is not heating up, the first thing to look at is the door lock. The door may not lock and the heating does not start. Also check the diode, if the problem is in it, then replace the microwave.
  7. The microwave oven is noisy. There are several reasons why a microwave oven may be noisy. Most likely, the reason is in the plate for heating, inspect the clutch and the guide roller. If it’s in them, then replacing them will be the most difficult.
  8. Microwave touchpad not responding. One of the most frustrating types of microwave oven malfunction is when the touchpad stops responding. The microwave should at least beep when you press the buttons. If your touchpad is not responding at all, then check the membrane switch, which can detect each individual button being triggered. If this is not the case, then most likely the problem is in the control board.
  9. Microwave exhaust fan not working. The microwave has a built-in exhaust fan that helps keep the air clean. When the exhaust fan stops working, you can try the following. Check the air filters first. They can be replaced or cleaned to restore functionality. Sometimes this is enough to get the fan working again. Then take apart all the moving parts, clean them and put them back together. And if you find a broken part in the exhaust fan assembly, replace it.

All these malfunctions happen to the microwave oven for different reasons. To eliminate them, act on your own or seek help from a wizard.

Burnt mica plate

One of the essential elements of the oven for the unit to work properly is a mica plate. It must be carefully looked after, otherwise the microwave will fail. Replace this part if broken. Contamination or damage to the mica plate causes cracks and sparks. If you saw microwave sparks when turned on, then it is quite possible that there are problems in this part. When faced with a burnt mica plate, solve this problem as soon as possible.

Repair consists of replacing this component. You will need to purchase a part yourself that matches the specifications of your microwave oven model. After that, replace the defective plate with a new one. In addition, experts recommend not radically replacing the old platinum with a new one, but simply putting a new one on a holey one. Before doing this, you just need to carefully clean the area where the new part will be installed. To change the mica sheet with your own hands, it is important to follow the recommendations in the instructions.

If you experience a spark in the microwave, turn off the device, unplug it and check the integrity of the power cable.