Remove all jewelry and watches, which could snag on components and conduct electricity. Magnetic microwave components may damage some watches. Wear rubber soled shoes and consider wearing insulated gloves. Have someone nearby to call emergency services if necessary. Take care not to touch any metal parts within the microwave, especially circuit boards and capacitors. [1] X Research source
On some models, you’ll need to open the microwave door to access the grille. [2] X Research source Some models have the grille on the back of the machine. You may not need to remove this rear grille to remove the other panels, but there could still be a fuse behind it. [3] X Research source
Always confirm the microwave is unplugged before you continue.
Do not touch any part of the inverter board that contains the capacitors. The aluminum heat sink, windings, and choke coil are all high voltage. [6] X Research source
According to the GE service manual for a JES series microwave, you may discharge at the magnetron filament terminal instead. [9] X Research source
Repeat with the third terminal if present.
Never test for voltage using a standard multimeter. They are not made to handle the extreme voltage found in microwaves.
There are many possible causes for a blown fuse, and these are not covered in this guide. One common cause is a broken door interlock switch, which may require replacing several door components or realigning the door. [11] X Research source WARNING: Do not touch or disassemble an unidentified component. If you cannot identify the broken part or do not know how to handle high-voltage equipment safely, hire a professional repairman.
If you are having trouble, consult the wiring diagram printed on the inside cover of the microwave (or occasionally on the underside or back of the exterior panels). Some fuses may be hidden by other components. [14] X Research source Only remove these components if you are familiar with their function and know how to handle them safely.
Touch the two probes together. You should hear a tone if the multimeter is set to continuity. If set to measure resistance, the multimeter should read 0 Ohms. (Analog multimeters may need calibration. ) Touch the two probes to opposite ends of the fuse. If the multimeter reads 0 Ohms or you hear a continuity tone, the fuse is working. If the multimeter measures resistance or displays “OL” for overload, or if there is no continuity tone, the fuse is blown.
Touch the two probes together. You should hear a tone if the multimeter is set to continuity. If set to measure resistance, the multimeter should read 0 Ohms. (Analog multimeters may need calibration. ) Touch the two probes to opposite ends of the fuse. If the multimeter reads 0 Ohms or you hear a continuity tone, the fuse is working. If the multimeter measures resistance or displays “OL” for overload, or if there is no continuity tone, the fuse is blown.
Pop the new fuse back in with the fuse puller or insulated gloves. Buy a couple spare fuses. If there is an underlying electrical problem, the new fuse could blow as well.
Never plug in or run the microwave until it is fully assembled. Place something inside the microwave before testing to avoid overheating. [17] X Research source