Amana Microwave: loud humming

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a loud humming noise from your Amana Microwave? This persistent sound, louder than the normal operational hum, may indicate underlying issues such as fan motor wear, turntable problems, or high-voltage component malfunctions. It's crucial to address these symptoms promptly to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Amana Models

  • Amana acknowledges normal humming from magnetron during operation

Possible Causes

Normal operational hum from magnetron

How to Identify: Low steady hum that has always been present and does not change significantly with use

Part: Magnetron (normal operation)

Exhaust/cooling fan motor wear or obstruction

How to Identify: Noise louder when fan running; possible rough fan blade movement observed; may feel vibration

Part: Exhaust fan motor / cooling fan

Turntable support/roller or turntable motor issues

How to Identify: Noise originates from bottom of cavity and changes when tray removed; turntable doesn’t rotate smoothly

Part: Turntable roller ring/ support / turntable motor

High‑voltage component issues (magnetron, transformer, diode)

How to Identify: Deep, loud humming or buzzing often with reduced heating performance or other electrical symptoms

Part: Magnetron / high‑voltage transformer / high‑voltage diode

Loose internal components or panels causing vibration

How to Identify: Rattling or vibration that changes when pressing on casing externally

Part: Internal housing screws/ panels

DIY Solutions

Check turntable and roller support

Easy 10–15 minutes
Tools Needed: none
  1. Unplug microwave and open door
  2. Remove glass tray and roller ring, clean and realign
  3. Reassemble and test if noise persists
⚠️ Safety First: Always unplug before removing parts

Clean and check fan blades

Moderate 20–30 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, soft brush/cloth
  1. Unplug microwave and remove cover following manual
  2. Locate cooling/exhaust fan
  3. Clean debris on blades and test free rotation, reassemble
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power disconnected and follow grounding precautions

Professional Repairs

Replace Fan Motor

Estimated Cost: $50–$150

High‑Voltage Component Replacement (Magnetron/Diode/Transformer)

Estimated Cost: $100–$300+

When to Call a Professional

If loud humming persists after basic DIY cleaning and checks
If noise is accompanied by reduced heating, burning smell, sparks, or electrical issues
If internal components like magnetron or high‑voltage parts are suspected

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean interior and turntable area: Debris buildup causing noise or turntable issues
    Frequency: monthly
  • Check for loose screws/panels: Excess vibration and noise
    Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Amana Microwave loud humming?
Common causes include fan motor wear, turntable issues, or high-voltage component problems.
How do I fix Amana Microwave loud humming myself?
Check the turntable and roller support for alignment, and clean the fan blades for proper operation.
How much does it cost to fix loud humming?
Professional repairs can range from $50 to $300+ depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for loud humming?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if you suspect high-voltage component failure.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

40%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Professional

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty magnetron causing excessive noise during operation
  • Worn-out or damaged high-voltage capacitor leading to humming sound
  • Loose or damaged fan motor causing vibrations and loud humming

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace the magnetron if faulty. Disconnect the microwave, remove the outer casing, and check for burn marks or damage on the magnetron. Replace if necessary.

  2. Check and replace the high-voltage capacitor. Ensure the microwave is unplugged, discharge the capacitor safely, and replace it if it's leaking or damaged.

  3. Tighten or replace the fan motor. Open the microwave casing, inspect the fan for looseness or damage, and secure or replace it as needed.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Microwave Magnetron Repair?

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