Kenmore Microwave: blowing fuses

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Kenmore microwave blowing fuses or tripping the circuit breaker? This issue often arises from excessive current draw or internal short circuits, causing the display to go blank. When this happens, the microwave will not operate until the fuse is replaced. Understanding the potential causes, like high-voltage component failures or faulty door interlock switches, is crucial for effective troubleshooting.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • No official Kenmore‑specific documented causes found; general microwave fuse causes apply. Kenmore models vary widely.

Possible Causes

High‑voltage component failure

How to Identify: Fuse blows immediately upon pressing start or closing door; internal short indicated by immediate fuse failure even with new fuse; abnormal noises or smell may precede failure.

Part: Magnetron / High‑voltage diode / High‑voltage capacitor

Faulty door interlock switches causing short circuit

How to Identify: Fuse blows when door is opened or closed; door may not latch properly; continuity test of switches fails.

Part: Door interlock switch assembly

Electrical circuit overload external to microwave

How to Identify: Household breaker trips; microwave on shared circuit with other high‑draw appliances; fuse issues do not occur when on separate dedicated circuit. turn(Engineer Fix

Part: Household electrical circuit / outlet

Power surges or unstable voltage supply

How to Identify: Fuse blows without microwave operation anomalies; after known voltage spike or surge event; issue not replicated when on surge‑protected outlet. (AppliancePerfected

Part: Electrical supply / internal control fuse

Incorrect or damaged fuse installed

How to Identify: Fuse rating mismatched or visibly damaged; blows immediately under normal load whereas correct fuse might not.

Part: Fuse component

DIY Solutions

Test and replace microwave fuse

Moderate 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver set, multimeter, replacement fuse matching rating
  1. Unplug microwave and wait several minutes to let stored charge dissipate.
  2. Remove access panel to locate internal fuse holder.
  3. Use multimeter to check continuity of fuse; if open circuit, fuse is blown.
  4. Replace fuse with identical rating and reassemble microwave.
  5. Test microwave on a safe load (e.g., cup of water) to see if fuse holds.
⚠️ Safety First: Always unplug before opening microwave.

Inspect and test door interlock switches

Advanced 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdrivers, multimeter
  1. Unplug microwave and remove outer cover per model documentation.
  2. Locate door interlock switches near door latch.
  3. Test each switch for continuity per manufacturer sequence using multimeter.
  4. Replace any switch failing continuity tests with correct replacement part.
⚠️ Safety First: High‑voltage risk present; ensure complete discharge before touching internal parts.

Professional Repairs

High‑voltage component replacement (magnetron, diode, capacitor)

Estimated Cost: $120 - $300+

Electrical circuit evaluation and dedicated circuit installation

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Fuse blows immediately even with correct fuse installed
High‑voltage components (magnetron, capacitor, diode) suspected to be shorted
Unusual burning smell or visible internal damage
User is uncomfortable working with high‑voltage components

Preventive Maintenance

  • Use dedicated circuit and avoid other high‑draw devices on same outlet: prevents overload conditions that can contribute to fuse blowing
    Frequency: always
  • Periodically check microwave vents and ensure proper ventilation: overheating that stresses internal circuits
    Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Microwave blowing fuses?
Common causes include high-voltage component failures, faulty door interlock switches, or electrical overload.
How do I fix Kenmore Microwave blowing fuses myself?
Unplug the microwave, test and replace the fuse, or inspect the door interlock switches using a multimeter.
How much does it cost to fix blowing fuses?
Professional repairs for high-voltage components range from $120 to $300+, while circuit evaluations can cost $150 to $400.
When should I call a technician for blowing fuses?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if you're unsure about handling high-voltage components, contact a professional.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty door switches (2 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Replace door switches and monitor switch

    Success rate: 100.0%
Analysis based on 2 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Kenmore 790.803 over the counter microwave causing power sur...
  2. Kenmore Elite 79080373310 Microwave blowing fuses

Community Discussions

Microwave blowing fuses

Replaced door switches, resolved issue.

DIY View on Reddit →

causing power surges and blowing fuses

Replace both door switches, the monitor switch, and the switch holder.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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