
Why is my microwave so noisy?
These are the most common parts responsible for a noisy microwave: Magnetron – The microwave magnetron uses high-voltage to create the microwave frequency that cooks the food placed in the oven cavity. In good condition, the magnetron will emit a low hum during operation.
Is your GE microwave making a loud humming noise?
Unfortunately, after years of use, your GE microwave model JNM1541DPWW can start emitting loud and concerning sounds. If a humming, grinding, or whining noise is coming from your appliance, the repair guide provided below can help you pinpoint and replace the malfunctioning component. Discharging the High Voltage Capacitor
What does a bad magnetron sound like in a microwave?
A properly functioning magnetron emits a low hum during operation. When the magnetron is failing that hum can turn into a high pitched hum or a growling sound. If the magnetron in your microwave is faulty, it will need to be replaced.
How does a microwave work?
All microwaves are equipped with a magnetron. The magnetron generates the microwave frequency, which in turn creates the heat that warms or cooks your food. A properly functioning magnetron emits a low hum during operation.

Why is my microwave louder than normal?
A loud humming noise from your microwave is often a sign of a faulty or worn-out diode. The diode is responsible for converting AC to DC to supply the magnetron with power. If a defective diode is to blame for your microwave making noise, the microwave won't generate heat.
How do you fix a noisy microwave?
If your microwave is making strange noises, it is most likely because a part needs replacing due to such heavy usage. However, before replacing any parts, see if either turning the microwave off and on at the power source or cleaning the microwave solves the noise issue.
How do you fix a noisy microwave turntable?
Check that the turntable plate and roller support are installed correctly. Check the rollers for wear and tear and debris. Make sure you are not overloading the turntable plate. If your microwave has just been installed, check that the tape over the shaft at the bottom has been removed to prevent a squeaky noise.
Why does my GE microwave fan keep running?
All over-the-range microwaves have an automatic fan feature to help protect the electronic components as well as help the cooking area get rid of excess heat. The built-in thermostat automatically turns the vent fan on if the unit is too hot and will not turn off until the microwave is cool again.
What are the signs that a microwave is going bad?
6 Signs It's Time to Replace Your MicrowaveSmoke, sparks, and burning smells.Food isn't cooking properly.It makes horrible sounds as it cooks.The door doesn't seal properly.The keypad doesn't function.It's over 10 years old.
How long should a microwave last?
The average microwave oven lasts about seven years with normal use, and even less with heavy use and poor maintenance. A large family may find themselves replacing their appliance every four to five years as they become more reliant on its use to heat up snacks and leftovers, or to defrost meals.
How do I make my microwave sound quieter?
Read on for more.Refresh the Sensors. Sometimes, your microwave may continue beeping annoyingly even when there is no food in it. ... Hard Reset Your Microwave. ... Engage the Silent Mode. ... Replace the Motor Drive. ... Clean or Replace the Drive Coupler. ... Replace the Magnetron. ... Replace the High Voltage Diode. ... Repair the Cooling Fan.More items...
Why does my GE microwave hum when I close the door?
If your microwave is making an unusual or loud humming noise, you may have a problem with the magnetron. This component is part of the high voltage circuit and provides the microwaves that generate the heat. If the magnetron is defective, it may cause a loud humming or buzzing noise.
Are microwaves worth repairing?
Consider a replacement if you have a basic model that can cost as little as $60. On the other hand, an expensive model with special features or a mounted microwave might be worth repairing. High-end microwave models can run from $500 to $1,000, so repairing these devices is often cheaper than replacing them.
Why won't my GE microwave fan shut off?
Faulty air filters Sometimes the air filters get clogged. The air filters are important as they absorb dirt and dust and prevent them from getting inside the machine. Over time, dirt and dust can build up inside air filters, resulting in a blockage. Check the air filters if your microwave vent fan won't turn off.
How do I turn off the vent fan on my GE microwave?
0:542:06Microwave Automatic Vent Fan Operation - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPress the fan button until the display indicates it is in the off mode. The fan will shut off byMorePress the fan button until the display indicates it is in the off mode. The fan will shut off by itself when the unit has cooled.
How do I reset my GE microwave fan?
0:000:33Resetting the Filter Light On a GE Microwave - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo you actually just hold this button for three seconds like so hold for three seconds. Until itMoreSo you actually just hold this button for three seconds like so hold for three seconds. Until it beeps.
Why is my microwave making a rumbling noise?
If your microwave is making an unusual or loud humming noise, you may have a problem with the magnetron. This component is part of the high voltage circuit and provides the microwaves that generate the heat. If the magnetron is defective, it may cause a loud humming or buzzing noise.
Can I replace the magnetron in my microwave?
If you've determined you need to replace your magnetron, you have two options: buy a replacement and follow the simple replacement guide- or replace the microwave altogether. A new magnetron isn't cheap- it could run you anywhere from $100-250- more often than not equal to or greater than the cost of a new microwave.
How much is a magnetron for a microwave?
Cost of Magnetron Replacement The magnetron in your microwave is the power source for your appliance. Replacing it costs approximately $100 to $200. A microwave magnetron price is around $50 to $100, and labor is about $50 to $100.
Why does my microwave make a grinding noise?
Your microwave’s drive motor rotates the appliance’s glass tray. If you hear a grinding noise as the tray is turning, a failing drive motor is most likely the problem. The only way to get rid of that annoying noise is by switching out the faulty drive motor for a new one.
Why does my microwave make a loud hum?
When the magnetron is failing that hum can turn into a high pitched hum or a growling sound. If the magnetron in your microwave is faulty, it will need to be replaced. However, if you do not have experience working on a microwave’s internal components, we suggest hiring a trained repair technician to complete the job.
What is a microwave capacitor?
Your microwave is equipped with a high voltage capacitor, which makes the appliance capable of shocking you even after you have unplugged it. The high voltage capacitor stores large amounts of electricity and must be discharged before you attempt to repair your appliance.
How to replace magnetron in microwave?
Once you have followed the directions above and discharged the high voltage capacitor, you can locate the magnetron and start the replacement process. To do so, first, disconnect the wires running to the magnetron.
How to reassemble a microwave?
Begin by reconnecting the wires to the thermal protector. Then, align the magnetron with its mounting bracket, and rethread the screws that hold the part in place. Lastly, reattach the wire connector that runs to the component. With the new magnetron in place, you can start reassembling your microwave.
What is the function of magnetron in microwave?
All microwaves are equipped with a magnetron. The magnetron generates the microwave frequency , which in turn creates the heat that warms or cooks your food. A properly functioning magnetron emits a low hum during operation. When the magnetron is failing that hum can turn into a high pitched hum or a growling sound. If the magnetron in your microwave is faulty, it will need to be replaced. However, if you do not have experience working on a microwave’s internal components, we suggest hiring a trained repair technician to complete the job.
How to discharge a high voltage capacitor?
To discharge the capacitor, use an insulated pair of needle nose pliers. Touch the metal ends of the pliers to the capacitor’s terminals at the same time. Make sure you do not touch the metal on the pliers with your hands. When the metal touches the terminals you will hear a loud pop.
What does it mean when the door on my microwave doesn't close?from fix.com
Need Help Finding Your Model Number? If the door on your microwave oven doesn’t appear to close properly, you may have a broken torsion spring. On microwaves that have a door that opens downward, torsion springs are used to keep it closed.
Why won't my microwave oven close?from fix.com
If the door on your microwave oven doesn’t appear to close properly, you may have a problem with the door latch assembly. The door latch assembly usually consists of two hooks that protrude from the door and fit into the door switch holder that is mounted onto the frame of the microwave. The hooks will contact the door switches to provide power ...
What happens if your door won't close?from fix.com
There are normally a left and right side spring and they are often different sizes. If your door won’t stay closed, one of the springs may have broken. Unplug the unit and remove the inner and outer door panels to access the torsion springs that are located at the bottom front of the door.
How to make a vent fan go high?
Push the "VENT FAN" pad followed quickly by the "VENT FAN BOOST" pad. That way the fan shifts from LOW to VERY HIGH as quickly as you can push the pads. You should be able to hear/feel this difference, even with a charcoal filter installed.
How to override a fan?
To Override (places the fan in medium or low speed): Starting with the vent fan in the off position) press the vent fan pad twice to get to the medium speed, or three times to get to the low speed.
Why is my microwave making a loud noise?
The type of noise your microwave oven is making can be a strong indicator for which part may be faulty or wearing out. These are the most common parts responsible for a noisy microwave: Magnetron – The microwave magnetron uses high-voltage to create the microwave frequency that cooks the food placed in the oven cavity.
Why does my microwave make a scraping sound?
Blower Wheel/Fan Blades – If you’re hearing a scraping sound after pressing the start button on your microwave, it’s likely the blower wheel or fan blades have become partially dislodged from the fan motor shaft and are rubbing against the fan housing. You can try reseating the wheel or blades, but you may need to replace the component with a new one.
How to test a microwave diode?
The magnetron and diode can be tested with a multimeter to determine if the components have continuity – a continuous electric path present in the parts. Before you attempt to disassemble the microwave to reach the magnetron, diode, or any other component for testing or replacement, unplug the power cord. Since high voltage capacitors used in microwaves may retain a charge even after the power cord has been unplugged, it is recommended to discharge the capacitor immediately after removing the cover. You can do this by placing a screwdriver blade across each set of capacitor terminals (avoid touching the blade when doing this).
What parts of a microwave are noisy?
Replacements for those parts that can cause your microwave oven to become noisy, like a magnetron, diode, turntable motor, fan motor, fan blade, blower wheel, or wave guide can be found at Repair Clinic. All you have to do is enter the full model number of your microwave in the Repair Clinic website search bar to see a complete list ...
How to check if a magnetron is working?
Here’s how you can use a multimeter to test a magnetron for continuity: 1 Rotate the multimeter dial to the lowest setting for “Ohms of resistance”. 2 Touch the black lead to one of the magnetron’s terminals and the red lead to the other terminal. The meter display should show less than one Ohm for the magnetron to be working properly.
What is the purpose of a diode in a microwave?
Diode – The diode works in conjunction with a capacitor to power the magnetron. A defective microwave diode could be the real culprit behind a noisy magnetron.
How to test a magnetron for continuity?
Here’s how you can use a multimeter to test a magnetron for continuity: Rotate the multimeter dial to the lowest setting for “Ohms of resistance”. Touch the black lead to one of the magnetron’s terminals and the red lead to the other terminal.
Why is my microwave noisy?
There is a at least one fan inside the microwave itself. It's used to cool off the high voltage transformer and the magnetron tube. It is notorious for being noisy.
What is the motor on a microwave?
This motor is the one in your picture. It operates a stirrer arm over the microwave cavity to distribute the microwaves. There is a very similar motor in the bottom under the unit if you have a rotating interior turntable. Both of these motors can squeal with age.
Which fan gets louder, #79 or #60?
The fan #79 gets noisier more often then #60.
Does a microwave fan need to work?
The fan does not need to work. It's not for cooling microwave, it's for venting the range below.
Does a vent switch work on a fan?
Thanks for the return. So glad you told me to check the Vent switch. I surely missed that. And yes, the ventilation fan does work with the Vent switch on.
