Kenmore Microwave: not heating
What is this symptom?
If your Kenmore microwave powers on but fails to heat food, it may be frustrating. You might notice the lights and turntable functioning, yet the food remains cold or barely warm after a heating cycle, often accompanied by a humming sound. This issue can stem from several common faults, such as a faulty magnetron or high-voltage capacitor.
Important Tips for Kenmore Models
- Kenmore/Sears sources list thermostat, control board, and switches frequently among causes; reset of control board by unplugging may sometimes resolve power glitches.
Possible Causes
Faulty magnetron
How to Identify: Microwave runs normally (lights, turntable but produces no heat; humming noise or burn smell may accompany. Magnetron failure is primary culprit for heating issues.
Part: Magnetron
Faulty high‑voltage capacitor
How to Identify: Microwave runs with no heat; capacitor may show damage and fails capacitance test.
Part: High‑voltage capacitor
Blown thermal or cavity fuse/thermostat
How to Identify: Microwave stops heating and won’t start or intermittently cuts off; continuity test fails. (DIY Repair Clinic
Part: Thermal fuse / thermostat
Control board malfunction
How to Identify: Microwave may show erratic behavior, display issues, or fail to engage high‑voltage components.
Part: Electronic control board
DIY Solutions
Test and replace door switch
- Unplug microwave and discharge capacitor safely
- Remove microwave cover to access door switch assembly
- Use multimeter to test door switch for continuity
- Replace door switch if continuity fails
Inspect visible diode damage
- Unplug microwave and properly discharge capacitor
- Locate high‑voltage diode near capacitor
- Visually inspect for burn marks and test continuity
- Replace diode if defective
Professional Repairs
Magnetron replacement
High‑voltage capacitor or diode replacement
Electronic control board replacement
When to Call a Professional
Preventive Maintenance
-
Clean microwave interior regularly: Overheating and component stress
Frequency: monthly -
Avoid running microwave empty: Magnetron damage
Frequency: as needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Kenmore Microwave not heating?
How do I fix Kenmore Microwave not heating myself?
How much does it cost to fix not heating?
When should I call a technician for not heating?
References & Sources
- Kenmore Microwave Not Heating Up Repair-Blog
Community Analytical Insights
Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities
Can I Fix This Myself?
Common Issues Reported by Users
- Faulty magnetron
- Defective high voltage capacitor
- Broken door switch
User Suggested Solutions
-
Test and replace the magnetron: Unplug the microwave, remove the outer casing, disconnect the magnetron, and test it with a multimeter. If faulty, replace it with a new one.
-
Check and replace the high voltage capacitor: After unplugging the microwave, locate the capacitor, discharge it safely, and test with a multimeter. Replace if necessary.
-
Inspect and replace the door switch: Open the microwave, locate the door switch, test it for continuity, and replace if it does not function correctly.
Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View
Sources
Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:
Community Discussions
no longer heating up food
The magnetron is likely faulty and requires removal of the microwave and oven for repair.
Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair
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