Kenmore Microwave: fan running and light on when door closed

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Kenmore microwave's fan is running and the light is on when the door is closed, it can be frustrating. This issue typically indicates a problem with the door interlock switch, control board, or a blockage in the latch mechanism. Understanding these causes can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • No specific official documentation found for this exact symptom; common causes align with general microwave interlock switch issues.

Possible Causes

Faulty or stuck door interlock/door switch assembly

How to Identify: Microwave thinks the door is open or the switch stays engaged; light and fan stay powered when door closed; continuity test fails on one or more switches.

Part: Door interlock switches

Control board or relay malfunction

How to Identify: After door switch checks, if the unit still behaves this way and power cycling temporarily clears issue or if control board shows signs of damage.

Part: Main control board / relay

Dirty latch or door mechanism interfering with switch operation

How to Identify: Visible grime or food debris near latch; cleaning can sometimes restore correct switch engagement.

Part: Door latch and associated mechanisms

DIY Solutions

Clean door latch and switches

Easy 10–20 minutes
Tools Needed: soft cloth, cotton swab, mild cleaner
  1. Unplug the microwave.
  2. Inspect the door latch and switch area for debris.
  3. Clean latch and switch contact areas with a cloth or cotton swab.
  4. Close door and test if light and fan turn off.
  5. Plug microwave back in and verify operation.
⚠️ Safety First: Always unplug microwave before cleaning.

Test and replace faulty door interlock switches

Moderate 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, multimeter, replacement switches
  1. Unplug microwave and discharge internal capacitor before servicing.
  2. Remove microwave outer cover to access switch assembly.
  3. Use a multimeter to check continuity of door switches.
  4. Replace any switch that does not show correct continuity.
  5. Reassemble and test microwave operation.
⚠️ Safety First: High-voltage capacitor inside microwave can retain charge; discharge properly.

Professional Repairs

Replace control board/relays

Estimated Cost: $120 - $300

Door assembly repair/replacement

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

When to Call a Professional

If you are not comfortable working inside high‑voltage appliance circuitry.
If replacing switches does not fix the symptom.
If internal control board diagnostics or replacement is required.

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean door latch and switch area: Switch sticking and false signals that can cause fan/light problems
    Frequency: monthly
  • Avoid slamming microwave door: Premature wear of door switches and latch mechanisms
    Frequency: ongoing

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Microwave fan running and light on when door closed?
This can be caused by a faulty door interlock switch, control board malfunction, or a dirty latch interfering with switch operation.
How do I fix Kenmore Microwave fan running and light on when door closed myself?
Unplug the microwave, clean the door latch and switches, and test the door interlock switches for continuity.
How much does it cost to fix fan running and light on when door closed?
Professional repairs can range from $50 to $300, depending on whether it's a door assembly issue or control board replacement.
When should I call a technician for fan running and light on when door closed?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if you're uncomfortable working with electrical components, contact a technician.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

70%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty door switch preventing the microwave from recognizing that the door is closed.
  • Malfunctioning control board sending incorrect signals to the fan and light.
  • Wiring issues or shorts within the door latch assembly.

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace the door switches. First, unplug the microwave. Remove the outer casing, locate the door switches, and test them for continuity. If faulty, replace them with new switches and reassemble the microwave.

  2. Check the control board for any visible damage or burnt components. If damage is found, replace the control board. Ensure the microwave is unplugged before attempting this.

  3. Inspect the wiring and connections in the door latch assembly for any signs of wear or shorts. Repair or replace any damaged wires. Make sure to unplug the microwave before starting.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Microwave light and inside fan keeps running when door is cl...

Community Discussions

Fan running and light on when door closed

Replace the door switches.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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