Kenmore Microwave: tripping circuit breaker

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Kenmore microwave is tripping the circuit breaker during or after use, it could be due to an overloaded electrical circuit, faulty components, or issues with the outlet. This can disrupt power to your microwave and other devices on the same circuit. Understanding the causes can help you troubleshoot and resolve the issue effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Common microwave door switch failure and high-voltage component faults are referenced in Kenmore-specific repair discussions for breaker tripping symptom

Possible Causes

Overloaded electrical circuit with too many appliances on same circuit

How to Identify: Breaker trips only when microwave is running possibly with other appliances; other heavy appliances also in use

Part: Household breaker/circuit

Faulty high-voltage components inside microwave (magnetron or capacitor) causing short circuit

How to Identify: Breaker trips consistently when microwave attempts to generate microwaves; unusual noises or no heating

Part: High-voltage capacitor and magnetron

Faulty outlet or poor outlet connection resulting in short or power surge

How to Identify: Breaker trips with microwave but other devices fine on other circuits, visible damage or heat at outlet

Part: Outlet / power cord connection

Internal leakage or insulation breakdown causing leakage current / short

How to Identify: Breaker trips immediately on use; potential smell of burning, arcing; likely involves leakage breaker

Part: Internal wiring/insulation

DIY Solutions

Reduce electrical load on circuit

Easy 5-10 minutes
  1. Stop using other high-power appliances on same circuit simultaneously (e.g., kettle, toaster)
  2. Try operating microwave alone to see if breaker still trips
⚠️ Safety First: Do not use extension cords or power strips with microwave

Inspect outlet and cord for visible damage

Easy 5 minutes
Tools Needed: Flashlight
  1. Unplug microwave
  2. Inspect cord and plug for fraying, burn marks or damage
  3. Inspect wall outlet for discoloration, heat damage or loose fit
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug before inspection

Professional Repairs

Replace defective door switches

Estimated Cost: $20 - $60 for parts (plus labor)

Replace high-voltage capacitor or magnetron

Estimated Cost: $50 - $200 for parts (plus labor)

Repair or replace faulty outlet or circuit breaker

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

When to Call a Professional

Breaker still trips with microwave alone on circuit
Visible signs of electrical fault (burn marks, smells, sparks)
Internal component failure suspected (high-voltage parts)

Preventive Maintenance

  • Avoid simultaneous use of high-power appliances on same circuit: Circuit overload and breaker trips
    Frequency: ongoing
  • Regularly inspect power cord and outlet for wear: Connection issues and potential shorts
    Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Microwave tripping circuit breaker?
Common reasons include overloaded circuits, faulty high-voltage components, or issues with the outlet.
How do I fix Kenmore Microwave tripping circuit breaker myself?
Reduce load on the circuit and inspect the outlet and cord for damage.
How much does it cost to fix tripping circuit breaker?
Professional repairs can range from $100 to $300 depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for tripping circuit breaker?
Consider calling a technician if DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if there are signs of electrical damage.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

60%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty door latch or door switch causing a short circuit
  • Damaged power cord or plug leading to electrical faults
  • Internal component failure, such as a shorted magnetron or capacitor

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace the door latch or door switch. Unplug the microwave, remove the outer casing, and check the latch assembly for damage. Replace if necessary.

  2. Check the power cord and plug for any visible damage. If damaged, replace the cord or plug to ensure proper electrical connection.

  3. Test internal components with a multimeter to identify faults. If a shorted magnetron or capacitor is found, replace the faulty part.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Kenmore microwave trips circuit as soon as it starts

Community Discussions

trips circuit as soon as it starts

Order the latch board assembly.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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