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Why Your Microwave Is Making Strange Noises – Easy Solves

Welcome back to another informative post from TheKitchenApplianceDad.com. Today, we’re diving into a common household conundrum that has probably puzzled many of you: strange noises coming from your microwave. Not only can these sounds be concerning, but they can also disrupt the peaceful ambiance of your kitchen. Fortunately, there are often simple explanations and solutions to these auditory oddities.

Understanding Microwave Noises

Firstly, it’s important to understand that microwaves are not silent machines. They naturally produce sounds while operating, such as the hum of the magnetron (the component that generates the microwaves) or the whir of the turntable motor. However, when your microwave starts making noises that are out of the ordinary, it’s time to investigate.

Tips To Fix A Noisy Microwave | Onsitego Blog

Common Noises and Their Causes

Buzzing or Humming: A soft buzz or hum is standard during microwave operation, but if it becomes loud or harsh, it could indicate a problem with the magnetron or the high voltage diode, which could be failing or malfunctioning.

Popping or Crackling: This can occur if food particles have splattered on the interior walls or ceiling and are carbonizing. It might also be a sign that the microwave’s waveguide cover is damaged.

Grinding or Scraping: If your microwave has a turntable, a grinding noise could suggest an issue with the turntable motor or the roller guide beneath the plate. Debris or wear and tear can cause such sounds.

Loud Thumping or Knocking: Sometimes caused by unevenly distributed food, or potentially by a malfunctioning stirrer, which is responsible for evenly distributing the microwaves throughout the cavity.

Troubleshooting Microwave Noises

Let’s break down some easy solves for each type of noise you might encounter.

Buzzing or Humming

Check the High Voltage Diode: The high voltage diode works with the magnetron to heat your food. To access it, you’ll need to unplug your microwave, remove the cabinet, and locate the diode. You can test it with a multimeter and replace it if it’s not functioning correctly. Here’s a helpful guide from RepairClinic on tackling this task.

Inspect the Magnetron: This component requires a professional’s touch. If you suspect the magnetron is the issue, it’s best not to attempt repairs on your own due to the high voltage. Consider contacting a technician or weighing the cost of repair against a new microwave.

Popping or Crackling

Clean Your Microwave: Remove any food residue by cleaning the interior with a microwave-safe cleaner. Ensure that the waveguide cover, if your microwave has one, is intact and free from damage.

Replace the Waveguide Cover: If it’s damaged, it’s relatively easy and inexpensive to replace. You can typically order a new one from the manufacturer or an appliance parts supplier.

Grinding or Scraping

Clean the Turntable and Roller Guide: Remove the turntable and the roller guide. Wash them thoroughly and check for any food particles or debris that may have been causing the noise.

Examine the Turntable Motor: If the noise persists after cleaning, the motor might be to blame. It’s located under the microwave, and you can attempt to replace it yourself or call a professional.

Loud Thumping or Knocking

Redistribute Food: Ensure food items are evenly distributed on the turntable. Avoid overloading the microwave with heavy dishes that could impede the turntable’s movement.

Check the Stirrer: If the noise continues with evenly distributed food, the stirrer might be malfunctioning. This component can be found at the top of the microwave cavity and may require a technician to repair or replace.

Preventive Measures

To keep your microwave in tip-top shape and prevent noises from happening in the first place, here are some preventive measures:

  • Regular Cleaning: Keep the interior of your microwave clean from food splatter and debris. This simple step can prevent many issues related to strange noises.
  • Even Heating: Always try to place food in the center of the turntable and avoid overloading.
  • Proper Usage: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate use of your microwave to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.

When to Call a Professional

While many of these fixes can be done at home, there are times when it’s best to call in a professional. If you’re dealing with high voltage components like the magnetron or if you’re not confident in your ability to safely perform repairs, it’s better to seek professional help. The cost of repair should also be weighed against the price of a new microwave, especially if your current one is several years old.

Key Takeaways

To sum up, here are the key points to rememberfrom TheKitchenApplianceDad.com’s guide on addressing strange noises from your microwave:

  • Understand the Normal Sounds: Recognize that certain humming and buzzing sounds are typical when a microwave is running.
  • Identify the Noise: Different sounds can point to various issues, from a loud buzzing indicating a magnetron problem to a grinding sound suggesting turntable motor issues.
  • Troubleshoot with Easy Fixes: Clean the microwave’s interior, check for damaged parts like the waveguide cover or turntable motor, and attempt simple repairs or replacements.
  • Take Preventive Measures: Regular cleaning and proper usage can prevent many noise-related problems before they start.
  • Know When to Seek Professional Help: For complex issues or when dealing with dangerous components, it’s wise to contact a technician.

Microwave noises can be unsettling, but they often have straightforward solutions. By following these steps, you can ensure that your microwave runs smoothly and quietly, just like the rest of your well-maintained kitchen appliances. Remember, for all your kitchen appliance insights and tips, keep TheKitchenApplianceDad.com bookmarked. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be a haven of peace and culinary joy!

Meet

Dale

Hi, I'm Dale! With over ten years in high volume restaurants, my journey has taken me through the ins and outs of using, maintaining, and even repairing virtually every kitchen appliance imaginable.

I'm here to share simple, straightforward advice to help you choose and use your kitchen tools effectively. No fluff, just the essential info you need to cook up a storm.