Whirlpool
Overheating or Faulty Thermal Protection
Microwave runs for a few seconds then shuts off and may restart or require resetting
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Overheating magnetron, Blocked cooling vents, Failing cavity thermostat or thermal fuse, Weak door switch losing contact under vibration
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety: Unplug before inspection.
- Check ventilation: Ensure the top, sides, and rear vents are not blocked by cabinets, foil, or other appliances. Clean any dust or grease buildup.
- Test with empty cavity: Do not run empty for long, but a brief test can show if the unit shuts down even with no load, indicating an internal overheating or switch issue.
- Inspect cooling fan: Start a short cook cycle and listen for the internal cooling fan. If it does not run, the fan motor or its wiring may be faulty.
- Check thermostats: With power disconnected, locate the cavity and magnetron thermostats. Test for continuity when cool; replace any that are open.
- Door switches: Vibration can cause a weak door switch to open momentarily. Inspect and replace any suspect switches.
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Repair Difficulty
Hard
4/5
Required Part
Cavity Thermostat
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