Microwave shuts off after a few seconds. If you own a microwave/oven, then you must realize that it’s one of the most important kitchen appliances. It provides convenience when cooking food because so much can be prepared in one simple device, for example, popcorn and frozen meals.
However, if your microwave isn’t functioning properly or stops working due to any reason at all, it can cause problems and may hinder your activities.
One of the most common problems that arise with microwaves is shutting off after a few seconds.
There could be many reasons for this experiencing this issue, but here are some of the most likely causes along with methods on how to fix your problem if your device turns itself off after only a few minutes.
Microwave shuts off after a few seconds
If your microwave runs for a few seconds and then shuts off, you probably have a defective or loose door switch. It’s also possible your appliance has overheated.
Some microwaves have a seal or gasket around the door that deteriorates with age. If the seal is broken, your microwave may stop working altogether.
To ensure your microwave doesn’t turn itself off within a few seconds also, here we list the solutions to this issue.
Faulty Door Switch
It’s possible that any of the door switches need to be replaced. Check them all for signs of overheating, arcing, or burning.
If no obvious signs of damage are present and regardless of whether they react with a multimeter, replace any switch that appears to have caused a fire or that is visibly broken.
Defective Touchpad
Generally, if the microwave’s touchpad stops working the display will be okay. Most commonly the touchpad is at fault. If the microwave runs but doesn’t heat, or worse still doesn’t power up at all, something much more serious could be at fault.
Control Board Issue
If your microwave is abruptly shutting off after running for two seconds, it could be an issue with the control board. Before checking that out completely, you need to make sure that the other items are working properly as well.
If you do a test run and they don’t work independently of one another, then there may be something wrong with the wiring in addition to the control board.
With any luck, it will not come down to that, so get your multimeter ready and use it to figure out if there is any continuity.
Damage voltage transformer
Microwave ovens have a high-voltage transformer located inside their chassis. The microwave transformer is responsible for supplying high voltage to the magnetron which in turn produces radio waves used to heat or cook food inside the microwave oven.
If your microwave stops working and you suspect that it may be due to a short circuit, it’s best to seek help from an experienced professional as this kind of repair needs someone with advanced training in dealing with electrical equipment.
Blocked vent
Microwaves use magnets to move their internal fans and other components, but if the vent or ventilation becomes clogged, the device will overheat causing it to shut down.
Use a small brush and vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to completely clean out the ventilation.
Grease buildup can quickly plug up your microwave, so stay on top of cleaning inside and outside with baking soda, water, and vinegar. Replace any broken or burned-out parts by calling our trained professionals for diagnostic repair instructions.
Cooling Fan Fault
The microwave ovens are designed with a cooling fan that helps them to keep going and running as long as possible. However, if the cooling fan stops working, then there is a likelihood that the magnetron is over-heating which will also trigger the trip of your thermostat.
In addition to this, it can cause power interruptions and won’t switch on until the microwave stops cooling down which will be quite time-consuming because of all of the waiting involved.
One best way to deal with this is to have them replaced immediately by a specialist who may end up fixing or replacing it for you.
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