What To Know
- Open the microwave door and locate the door switch (usually at the top or bottom of the door frame).
- To test the magnetron, you will need a special tool called a microwave power meter.
- If you are not comfortable performing the repairs yourself or if the problem persists after following the instructions above, it’s best to call a qualified appliance repair technician.
If your Sharp microwave has become a silent sentinel in your kitchen, don’t despair! With a little troubleshooting and elbow grease, you can restore it to its former glory. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the common issues that plague Sharp microwaves and provide step-by-step instructions on how to fix them.
Diagnosing the Problem
Before embarking on any repairs, it’s crucial to identify the root cause of the malfunction. Here are some common symptoms and their potential causes:
- No power: Faulty power cord, blown fuse, or tripped circuit breaker.
- Sparks inside the microwave: Damaged magnetron or waveguide cover.
- Food not heating: Faulty door switch, magnetron, or capacitor.
- Turntable not rotating: Broken drive motor or turntable coupler.
- Display not working: Faulty control panel or display board.
Safety Precautions
Before attempting any repairs, ensure you follow these safety precautions:
- Unplug the microwave from the power outlet.
- Allow the microwave to cool down completely.
- Wear protective gloves to avoid electrical shocks.
- Never attempt to repair a microwave if you are not qualified or experienced.
Step-by-Step Repair Instructions
1. Fixing a Faulty Power Cord
- Inspect the power cord for any visible damage, such as cuts or burns.
- If the cord is damaged, replace it with a new one of the same length and rating.
2. Replacing a Blown Fuse
- Locate the fuse box inside the microwave (usually near the power cord).
- Remove the blown fuse and replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage rating.
3. Resetting a Tripped Circuit Breaker
- Go to your electrical panel and locate the circuit breaker that powers the microwave.
- Flip the breaker to the “OFF” position and then back to the “ON” position.
4. Inspecting the Door Switch
- Open the microwave door and locate the door switch (usually at the top or bottom of the door frame).
- Test the switch with a multimeter to ensure it’s making contact.
- If the switch is faulty, replace it with a new one.
5. Troubleshooting the Magnetron
- The magnetron is a critical component that generates the microwaves.
- If the magnetron is faulty, the microwave will not heat food.
- To test the magnetron, you will need a special tool called a microwave power meter.
- If the magnetron is not producing enough power, it needs to be replaced.
6. Replacing the Capacitor
- The capacitor stores energy and helps the magnetron generate microwaves.
- A faulty capacitor can cause the microwave to overheat or not heat at all.
- To replace the capacitor, discharge it using a resistor before removing it.
7. Fixing a Broken Drive Motor
- The drive motor powers the turntable.
- If the motor is faulty, the turntable will not rotate.
- To replace the drive motor, remove the turntable and disconnect the wires from the motor.
8. Replacing the Turntable Coupler
- The turntable coupler connects the turntable to the drive motor.
- If the coupler is broken, the turntable will not rotate properly.
- To replace the coupler, remove the turntable and disconnect the coupler from the drive motor.
9. Troubleshooting the Control Panel
- The control panel allows you to operate the microwave.
- If the control panel is faulty, you may not be able to select the desired settings.
- To troubleshoot the control panel, check the buttons and display for any damage.
- If the control panel is faulty, it may need to be replaced.
Tips for Avoiding Microwave Problems
- Keep the microwave clean, especially the waveguide cover.
- Avoid using metal utensils or placing metal objects inside the microwave.
- Do not overload the microwave.
- Allow the microwave to cool down before cleaning it.
- Have the microwave serviced regularly by a qualified technician.
When to Call a Professional
If you are not comfortable performing the repairs yourself or if the problem persists after following the instructions above, it’s best to call a qualified appliance repair technician. Attempting to repair a microwave without proper training can be dangerous.
What You Need to Know
Q: Why is my Sharp microwave sparking?
A: Sparking inside the microwave can be caused by a damaged magnetron or waveguide cover.
Q: How can I test the magnetron in my Sharp microwave?
A: You will need a microwave power meter to test the magnetron.
Q: Can I replace the capacitor in my Sharp microwave myself?
A: Yes, but it’s important to discharge the capacitor using a resistor before removing it.
Q: How often should I service my Sharp microwave?
A: Regular servicing by a qualified technician is recommended every 6-12 months.
Q: Why is the turntable in my Sharp microwave not rotating?
A: The turntable may not be rotating due to a broken drive motor or turntable coupler.
