Whirlpool Microwave: not functioning

Possible Causes

Power supply issues

How to Identify: No lights or display, other appliances on same outlet also dead, tripped breaker

Part: Household power / outlet / circuit

Door interlock/latch switch not engaging

How to Identify: Microwave shows no activity unless door pressed firmly; sometimes lamp toggles

Part: Door switch / latch mechanism

Internal blown fuse or thermal cutoff

How to Identify: No power even when outlet and breaker are correct; often no display or light

Part: Internal fuse/thermal cutout

Main control board failure

How to Identify: Buttons and display unresponsive or inconsistent; no reactions to controls

Part: Control board

Power cord damage

How to Identify: Visible damage to cord; power intermittent or none

Part: Power cord

DIY Solutions

Check outlet and breaker

Easy 5-10 minutes

Tools Needed: none

1. Ensure microwave is plugged directly into a working wall outlet
2. Check home circuit breaker box and reset any tripped breaker
3. Try a different outlet to see if the microwave responds

⚠️ Safety First: Do NOT touch internal components; ensure hands are dry

Inspect door closure and latch

Moderate 10-15 minutes

Tools Needed: flashlight

1. Open and close microwave door firmly to ensure latch engages
2. Inspect door catch and surrounding area for debris or misalignment
3. Observe if the interior light or display changes when door is properly closed

⚠️ Safety First: Do NOT force door; ensure no damage to latch

Professional Repairs

Replace internal fuse or thermal cutoff

Estimated Cost: $30 - $100 (parts) plus labor

Control board replacement

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300 (parts) plus labor

When to Call a Professional

If there is visible damage to power cord

No reaction after outlet and door checks

Internal components suspected like fuse or control board

Preventive Maintenance

• Check and clean door latch area: Door switch issues preventing operation
  Frequency: monthly
• Test outlet and ensure dedicated circuit: Power supply interruptions
  Frequency: quarterly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool Microwave not functioning?

Common causes include power supply issues, door latch problems, blown fuses, or control board failure.

How do I fix Whirlpool Microwave not functioning myself?

Check the outlet and breaker, and ensure the door latch is engaging properly.

How much does it cost to fix not functioning?

Professional repairs can range from $30 to $300 depending on the issue.

When should I call a technician for not functioning?

If DIY solutions don't work or the problem seems complex, it's best to contact a technician.

References & Sources

• Not Operating - Has Power - Built-In Microwave - Whirlpool Official
• Microwave not working common causes Community

Can I Fix This Myself?

67%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

• Control board failure (2 mentions)
• Door switch malfunction (2 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

1. Check or replace door switches

   Success rate: 33.0%

2. Resolder or replace control board

   Success rate: 17.0%

Community Discussions

inside light, turntable, and fan are dead

Resoldered the control board after arcing damage; ordered a new control board for the relay issue.

DIY View on Reddit →

doesn't work after cleaning, electric panel blocked, timer and watch don't work, error message 'door'

after some time, the microwave started working again without any problem

Pro needed View on Reddit →

The buttons all beep when pressed and the display shows the thing it’s supposed to do, but it does nothing.

Check door switches for continuity or replace them as they are inexpensive.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair