Some door switches have only two metal prongs extending from the body, while others have three. Those with three terminals will have a common (COM) terminal, a normally closed (N.C.) terminal, and a normally open (N.O.) terminal.
Microwaves include three switches located behind the control panel: primary, secondary and monitor switch all actuate to keep the microwave from cooking the kitchen while the door is open.
Door Switch Repair
The cost to repair a faulty door switch ranges from $50 to $100.
Our survey results suggest that you should consider repairing the broken microwave if it's still under warranty or if it's 5 years old or less, but you'll definitely want to replace it if it's more than 5 years old. Once you spend $500 or more on an OTR microwave, there are more decision points.
If the switch fails completely, it will not be able to conduct power to the door lock actuators, and as a result, the door locks will not function. While most power door lock switches are built to withstand extended use, they are still susceptible to failure, and can be an inconvenience for the driver when they do.
If the button presses in too easily with no resistance, it may have disconnected from the door mechanism. If the button won't fully press in, the door mechanism or button connection may be jammed. And if it pushes and then clicks suspiciously, the button may be failing to trigger the door release mechanism.
Microwaves include three switches located behind the control panel. A primary, secondary, and monitor switch all actuate to keep the microwave from cooking your kitchen while the door is open.
The types of micro switches are; pin plunger, spring pin, spring short, panel mount, leaf spring, leaf lever, roller leaf spring, etc. The types of limit switches are whisker, roller, lever limit, and plunger.
There are two door switches for your model.
Indeed, a quick search of all the microwaves currently on sale yields not a single right-hinged microwave, which is annoying for lefties—and folks in cramped kitchens where the microwave sits flush against the right wall. Washers, dryers, and refrigerators can all have their doors reversed. Why not microwaves?
The first sign of trouble is when the switch begins to behave in a fashion that is abnormal in any way. For example, if there's an audible crackle, snap, or popping sound when you flip the lever, then it's pretty clear that your switch is defective and it's time to replace it.
Bad switch, but easy fix
You'll know when that time comes by watching out for flickering lights, sparks, unusual noises, or if the switch becomes warm to the touch. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is time to break out your multimeter or contact your neighborhood electrician!
Touch each tester probe to one of the screw terminals, then turn the switch lever on and off. If the switch is good, the tester will read close to zero when the switch lever is in the on position, indicating that there is perfect continuity (no resistance).
With normal usage for an average family and good maintenance, a microwave often lasts for 7 to 8 years. If the microwave is used less frequently by a single person or a couple and is well-maintained, the lifespan can increase to up to 10 years.
The most common cause of microwave failure is its magnetron. The magnetron is what produces the microwaves that cook your food, and it's also the part that is most likely to burn out. Symptoms of a faulty or burned-out magnetron include a microwave that doesn't heat food properly or doesn't work.
The average cost for a Power Door Lock Switch Replacement is between $123 and $137. Labor costs are estimated between $41 and $52 while parts are priced between $81 and $85.
If you take good care of your microwave up into its old age, there's a low risk of harm, but if it's damaged in any way you may want to get it checked out. If you've looked after it well, there's no reason why a vintage microwave should be dangerous.
The answer: The microwave is overloading the electrical circuit. In other words, the circuit is rated to handle a certain amount of amps (unit of electrical current), and the microwave is exceeding that amount, causing the breaker to trip.