Fixing A Microwave

A warning against fixing a microwave yourself

By the experts at The Family Handyman

From The Family Handyman

Q  My microwave oven still cooks stuff but not nearly as fast as it used to. A friend told me that the magnetron (whatever that is) is shot. Since it’s well past the warranty period, I’m considering replacing the magnetron myself. Is it worth doing, or should I just buy a new oven? Do you have any advice?

A  Yes—don’t go anywhere near it! Microwave ovens have capacitors that store up to 4,000 volts for long periods of time after the oven has been used. In fact, this stored voltage electrocutes an average of four people every year. The only two “repairs” a homeowner should attempt are changing the light bulb and tripping the circuit breaker located on the back of most machines.

As far as having the oven repaired, a new magnetron would run anywhere from $80 to $130, plus $80 in labor to install it. You’d need to be very emotionally attached to your oven to justify that expense. Microwave ovens are so cheap now that it’s hardly worth having them repaired. Splurge and go buy a new one.

From The Family Handyman - March 2001

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