Ge Microwave: not powering on

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your GE microwave is not powering on, it can be frustrating. You may notice no lights, sounds, or display when plugged in. This common issue can stem from various causes, including power supply problems or internal fuse failures. Understanding the potential reasons can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Ge Models

  • Some GE models may enter a demo mode that appears like no power; consult manual

Possible Causes

Power supply issue (outlet, GFCI, or circuit breaker)

How to Identify: No power at microwave outlet; other appliances also not powering; tripped breaker or GFCI outlet detected

Part: Household electrical supply

Blown internal fuse (line or thermal fuse)

How to Identify: Microwave completely dead with no lights; continuity test on fuse shows break; usually caused by surge or overheating

Part: Internal microwave fuse

Faulty door switch or latch assembly

How to Identify: Door does not click properly; interior light doesn’t turn on; safety interlock not engaging

Part: Door interlock switches

Control board or internal power supply failure

How to Identify: No display, no response even with verified power and door engagement; intermittent prior glitches

Part: Control board / internal power circuitry

Damaged power cord

How to Identify: Visible damage to cord; microwave shows no power; outlet known good

Part: Power cord

DIY Solutions

Check and reset power supply

Easy 5–10 minutes
Tools Needed: None
  1. Confirm microwave is plugged in securely
  2. Test outlet with another device
  3. Check and reset GFCI outlets and home circuit breaker if tripped
⚠️ Safety First: Do not attempt if you suspect wiring issues in home circuit

Inspect and replace blown internal fuse

Advanced 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: Screwdrivers, Multimeter, Replacement fuse
  1. Unplug microwave and remove outer cover
  2. Locate internal fuse(s) near power entry and test for continuity with multimeter
  3. Replace blown fuse with exact spec match
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug before opening

Check door latch and switches

Moderate 15–30 minutes
Tools Needed: Screwdriver, Multimeter
  1. Open door and inspect latch and switches for alignment and debris
  2. Use multimeter to test switches for continuity when door closed
  3. Adjust or replace faulty switches
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug microwave before testing interior switches

Professional Repairs

Control board or internal electrical repair

Estimated Cost: $150 - $350+

Door switch/latch assembly replacement

Estimated Cost: $50 - $120

When to Call a Professional

Microwave still has no power after verifying outlet and internal fuses
Internal testing indicates control board or high-voltage component fault
Frequent blowing of fuses or tripping circuit breakers

Preventive Maintenance

  • Inspect power cord and outlet regularly: Power issues from damaged cord or loose plug
    Frequency: monthly
  • Keep door latch area clean: Door switch misalignment or failure
    Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my GE Microwave not powering on?
Common causes include power supply issues, blown internal fuses, or faulty door switches.
How do I fix GE Microwave not powering on myself?
Check the power supply, inspect and replace blown fuses, or test door switches for continuity.
How much does it cost to fix not powering on?
Professional repairs range from $50 to $350+, depending on the issue and parts needed.
When should I call a technician for not powering on?
Call a technician if DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if complex repairs are needed.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

50%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Professional

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Blown fuse (3 mentions)
  • Faulty interlock switch (1 mentions)
  • Bad wire connection (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and replace the 20amp buss fuse

    Success rate: 11.0%

  2. Check for faulty interlock switch or blown fuse

    Success rate: 11.0%

  3. Inspect for bad wire connection

    Success rate: 11.0%
Analysis based on 4 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. GE JES1072SH1SS sparked and died
  2. GE microwave no power
  3. Call for repairs or just replace my dead 2014 GE microwave?
  4. Microwave no power

Community Discussions

no power

Check and replace the 20amp buss fuse; the blown thermal fuse is likely not the cause.

DIY View on Reddit →

completely dead, no power, no lights

Possible issues include a blown fuse or bad wire connection.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

sparked and died

Possible blown fuse or faulty interlock switch

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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