If your microwave suddenly stops heating, the first thing to check is the fuse. A blown fuse is one of the most common reasons a microwave goes quiet, and fixing it is often cheaper and faster than calling a technician.
Most microwaves use a single 250‑400 V fuse that sits behind the outer panel or inside the cabinet near the power cord. When the fuse blows, the high‑voltage circuit is cut off, so the magnetron – the part that actually cooks food – gets no power.
How to Test If the Fuse Is Bad
Grab a multimeter and set it to the continuity setting. Remove the fuse (usually a glass tube or a ceramic cartridge) and touch the probe tips to each end. If the meter doesn’t beep or show zero resistance, the fuse is blown and needs replacing.
Don’t guess – a faulty fuse can look clean but still be broken inside. A quick test saves you from swapping parts you don’t need.
Replacing the Fuse safely
First, unplug the microwave. Even though the fuse is the safety device, the unit still stores high voltage that can shock you. Next, locate the fuse. On most models it’s held in a metal clip; on others you’ll need to unscrew a small bracket.
Take note of the amperage rating printed on the old fuse – usually 5 A or 10 A – and buy the exact match. Using a higher‑rated fuse can let too much current flow, risking fire or further damage.
Install the new fuse, re‑secure any clips or screws, and plug the microwave back in. If it heats up, you’ve solved the problem. If not, the issue might be the magnetron, door switch, or control board, and it’s time to call a pro.
Wondering about cost? A replacement fuse runs between £3 and £12, and most local repair shops will bill £30‑£50 for labor if you don’t want to DIY. That’s a fraction of the price of a full microwave service.
When to call a professional: the fuse blows repeatedly after you replace it, you see sparks or a burning smell, or the microwave makes odd noises. These signs point to deeper electrical problems that need an experienced technician.
Our tag page also features related posts that can help you decide whether DIY is worth it. Check out “Microwave Fuse Replacement Costs: What to Expect and How to Save” for a detailed price breakdown, and “Fix Your Microwave at Home: DIY Troubleshooting & Repair Guide” for step‑by‑step help with other common microwave issues.
In a nutshell, a blown microwave fuse is easy to diagnose and cheap to fix. Keep a spare fuse on hand, follow safety steps, and you’ll be back to reheating leftovers in minutes. If anything feels unsafe, don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified appliance repair service – it’s better to be safe than end up with a broken kitchen gadget.
Wondering if your microwave isn't working because of a blown fuse? This article explains the telltale signs, why a fuse might blow, and how you can safely check it yourself. You'll learn where to find the fuse, when to grab a new one, and when it’s time to call in a professional. Avoid kitchen mishaps and extra bills by understanding what's going on inside your appliance. Every tip is straightforward and easy to follow, no prior repair skills needed.
