How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Microwave?

In this guide

Microwave Repair Cost by Type of Microwave

Homeowners spend between $50 and $500 on microwave repairs based on the type of microwave in question. Several types of microwaves are available today, including countertop models, over-the-range models, and built-in microwaves that are permanently installed in the kitchen and designed to last much longer than a basic countertop unit. Microwave repair costs are influenced by the unit type and the issues that need to be repaired, with portable units having cheaper repair costs than built-in models that may require additional parts, labor, and effort.

Countertop microwaves are the most affordable and common type found in homes today. They are practical, portable, and can be placed anywhere in any kitchen. Plus, they are cheaper to repair because they are easier to access than built-in or over-the-range microwaves. Built-in and over-the-range microwave repair are more difficult for repairmen because the cabinets block all of the easy access points, increasing labor costs for the time involved in accessing the parts in need of repair. In the table below, you will see each type and its average repair costs.

Cost to Repair a Microwave by Type of Repair

The average homeowner spends between $100 and $500 on microwave repair based on the type of repairs needed. The main factor influencing the cost of your microwave repair is the repair work needed. Microwaves have a wide range of problems. Some are relatively quick and easy to fix. But others are complicated, requiring more work or costly parts. The table below shows the average costs for fixing common microwave components.

Microwave Door Switch Repair Cost

You can expect to spend between $50 and $100 on microwave door switch repair. In some instances, the switch may be jammed or otherwise inoperable and need to be adjusted or fixed instead of replaced. This is one of the cheapest repairs that can be made on a microwave. The switch repair is relatively inexpensive. Professionals need less than 30 minutes to make it on most microwave models. If there are more complex issues or the repair cannot be made, they will advise on a replacement.

Microwave Fan Repair Cost

Repairing the microwave fan costs between $75 and $200, depending on what is wrong with the fan. Complex electrical issues cost more, while fuses or wiring shorts may be simpler and cheaper to fix. If the fan needs to be completely re-wired or physical damage needs to be repaired, the costs increase. Your repairman can diagnose the problem and determine whether it will work to repair the fan or if replacing the part or the entire microwave is more cost-effective.

Microwave Transformer Repair Cost

Microwave transformer repair costs between $100 and $200, depending on the exact issue. A simple short or physical malfunction in the transformer can be easy to repair, while a total failure of the device may require a full replacement instead of repair. Repairing the transformer may take more time than most fixes, averaging one to two hours on basic models. It could take longer for over-the-range and built-in microwaves because the access to the transformer is limited, and the appliance may need to be uninstalled to access all the parts.

Microwave Touch Panel Repair Cost

Microwave touchpad repairs cost between $100 and $300, depending on the make and model. The touchpad is how you interact with the microwave, programming the time and temperature and choosing the settings. Some touchpads can be repaired if the issues are related to the control board or computer components. However, those with more advanced technology or more serious damage may need to be replaced with a new panel. Consult your repair technician to ensure that you make the right decision for your budget and the microwave itself.

Microwave PCB Repair Cost

You can expect to spend between $100 and $500 on PCB repairs for the microwave if repairs are possible. Also known as the control board or circuit board, this is the main component that manages the microwave functions and tells it what actions to perform based on the buttons that are touched. If a PCB can be repaired, it will be costly. In most cases, they are usually replaced.

Average Cost of Microwave Repair by Type of Replacement

You will spend between $50 and $500 on microwave part replacements when they are necessary because repairs are not possible. Several different microwave components could need to be replaced. They all have their own costs and considerations. It is important to rely on an expert appliance repair technician to handle all replacements, no matter how simple they might seem. In the table and subsections below, you will see a list of the most common microwave replacements and their costs.

Microwave Fuse Replacement

Fuse replacements for a microwave cost between $50 and $100. Replacing a fuse is a simple repair and usually inexpensive. Fuses are found in several appliances. It is natural for them to wear out over time or blow. It takes less than 30 minutes to replace a blown fuse. However, there are certain procedures to follow, so it is still something that might be best left to a trained repairman.

Cost to Replace Microwave Door Switch

Microwave door switch replacements average $50 to $100. The door switch is a small but important component that stops the microwave from functioning when the door is open. Replacement switches are very cheap and can be fitted in under an hour. There are rare instances where this can be repaired. Most incidents require replacement.

Microwave Diode Replacement Cost

Microwave diode replacements cost between $50 and $125. The diode is an essential part of the microwave that creates and receives microwave signals, but it usually wears down over time. You can often notice a faulty diode by the presence of sparks in your microwave. Fortunately, diodes are inexpensive to buy and replace. Nevertheless, because of the electrical risks, it should always be done by a trained appliance repair specialist.

Microwave Filter Replacement

Microwave filter repairs range from $50 to $125. Many microwaves come with mesh charcoal filters that trap grease and contaminants. However, they become clogged over time. If your filter is dirty, it may need cleaning, which can be done cheaply. Or, it might need a full replacement, which may be more costly. Some people are not even aware these filters exist. Still, a professional can show you where it is located and how to tell if it needs a little TLC.

Microwave Handle Replacement

Microwave handle repairs average $75 to $125, depending on the model and cost of the replacement parts. Handles on microwave doors can be made from various materials. Some weaker ones break over time. Part costs can be high for certain brands. However, labor costs should not be too high for this job because removing a broken handle and fitting a new one is relatively simple.

Microwave Plate Replacement

Microwave plate replacements cost between $75 and $150. This is one of the few microwave repair jobs you can do without the help of a professional. The plate or turntable is a thick sheet of glass that turns inside the microwave to help food heat evenly. If it cracks or shatters, replace it by taking the old one out and placing a new one inside. It does not need to be screwed in, so the job can be done in a matter of seconds. But, it is important to get the correct plate for your microwave.

Microwave Fan Replacement

Microwave fan replacements average $75 to $200. The fan recirculates air from the appliance back into the kitchen or out of the home via a vent if you have your microwave connected to ductwork. When it stops working, the grease, dirt, and contaminants in the air build up in or around the microwave. Most fan replacements are inexpensive but can cost more for built-in or over-the-range units because more labor is required to access the fan.

Magnetron Replacement Cost

Magnetron replacements cost between $100 and $300. The magnetron is one of the most important components of the microwave, transforming the unit’s electrical current into microwave energy. Usually, repairs are not possible for broken magnetrons. They need to be completely replaced with new ones. Replacing a magnetron can be very dangerous. It is essential to hire an experienced, certified repairman for the job.

Microwave Transformer Replacement

Transformer repair or replacement for a microwave averages $100 to $300. Transformers play an important role in the functionality of any microwave, amplifying the power supplied to the appliance to produce enough current to create microwave energy. When a transformer stops working, the microwave will not function correctly or at all. Replacement is dangerous work. A professional should always handle this task.

Microwave Touchpad Repair

Microwave touchpad repairs cost between $100 and $300, depending on the make and model. The touchpad allows users to control the microwave, program time and temperature, and choose the settings. Some touchpads are more inexpensive to replace than others, depending on the model of the microwave and its features or settings.

Microwave Control Board Replacement

Control board replacements for microwaves range from $100 to $500. There are instances when the control board simply cannot be repaired and must be replaced. A repairman can diagnose the issue and determine the right solution. It is often based on the value of the microwave compared to the repair cost. For example, if it will cost $300 to fix a control board and $200 to replace it, but you only paid $200 for the microwave in the first place, a full replacement may be in order. This is where the expertise of your repairman comes in handy.

Replace Microwave Door Glass

Replacing the door glass in a microwave costs between $150 and $400, depending on the make and model. If the glass has a small crack, the microwave may still work fine because the glass is mostly a cosmetic element. However, many people do not want to look at cracked glass every day, so they prefer to have the panel taken out and a new one fitted in place to make the microwave look brand new.

Microwave Door Replacement Cost

Microwave door replacements average $200 to $500. This is often one of the most expensive repair jobs for microwaves because the part costs can be high for some brands due to the materials used. Replacing the door is not too difficult because the old one can be unscrewed and the new one fitted into position. This could be a solution to resolve a door not closing properly, a broken latch of some kind, hinge problems, handle issues, or any other door-related problems.

Microwave Repair Cost by Type of Problem

It costs between $50 and $500 to get your microwave fixed, depending on the problem you are having. If you are not a microwave expert, you might not know exactly which part of your appliance has a problem. You may notice that something is not working correctly, hear a strange sound coming from the microwave, or even see sparks on the inside. All these problems have root causes that can be diagnosed and fixed by an experienced technician. The table below shows common microwave problems and the average repair costs:

Microwave Still Running With Door Open

Fixing a microwave that runs even with the door open costs between $50 and $100. It is dangerous to have a microwave running with the door open, so this problem needs to be fixed quickly. It usually occurs because of a fault with the door switch, which is responsible for stopping the microwave from functioning when the door is open. These switches are inexpensive to replace.

Microwave Sparking Inside

Fixing sparks inside a microwave averages $50 to $125. There are several potential causes of this problem. It is typically a problem with the diode, which is cheap to replace. But it might be because of another component or that you accidentally placed metal in the microwave. Sometimes, people accidentally leave silverware in dishes or forget to take foil wraps off before putting an item in the microwave, which can lead to serious damage, burns, and more.

Microwave Humming When Door Is Closed

Fixing a humming or noisy microwave ranges from $50 to $300. There are various reasons for a humming microwave. It might be an issue with the diode, magnetron, or fan, so call in a repairman to find the exact cause and a solution. The microwave will make some ambient noise, and of course, will hum while in use, but if it is a loud, irregular humming, which is a sign to get help.

Microwave Not Heating Repair Cost

Repairing a microwave that is not heating costs between $50 and $500. The costs for this repair vary, depending on the problem. It might be a diode or door switch issue, which are both easy to fix, but it could also be a problem with a more expensive component like the control board or magnetron. Several issues could result in the microwave not heating or not heating properly, which is why it is best to rely on a trained professional for an accurate diagnosis and repair.

Microwave Plate Not Spinning

Repairing a microwave when the plate does not spin averages $75 to $300. There are a few causes of this problem. The motor is likely to blame because the motor turns the plate. It could also be an issue with the roller guide, which is the small component that sits under the tray and rotates it smoothly. It could even be an issue with the plate itself, such as damage or cracks, which could require a full plate replacement.

Microwave Motor Not Working

Fixing a microwave with the motor not working ranges from $100 to $300. If the motor in your microwave stops working, the turntable or glass plate on the inside will not rotate, and your food will not evenly cook. Broken motors usually need to be replaced with new ones, but if the problem is small, repairs may be possible. A microwave repair technician will help identify exactly what is causing the motor to fail and determine the best course of action. The motor may be burnt out, or it may just have a short. Physical damage or an electrical surge may have affected the motor. Several other issues can occur, as well. That is why hiring a professional is best.

Microwave Sparking Outside

Repairs for a microwave that sparks on the outside cost between $100 and $500. There are several possible causes. It might be that the door or mesh metallic grid inside the door has become damaged, but it could also be an issue with the wiring. The door may need repairing or replacing, which can be costly. The issue should be resolved immediately to avoid potential fire hazards and get the appliance back in working order.

Cost to Fix Microwave by Brand

Most people spend between $100 and $500 to fix their microwave based on the manufacturer. This is another common factor that influences the cost of your microwave repairs. There are many different brands, ranging from high-end manufacturers like Viking and Thermador to more budget-friendly choices, such as Frigidaire and GE. Higher-end models usually contain more expensive components, increasing the cost of repairs.

Hotpoint and Sharp are examples of budget-friendly options, while brands like Frigidaire, GE, and Samsung may cost considerably more because of features, technology, quality, and other factors. There are no specific repairs common to certain brands because it is all about the model, the quality, and the frequency and type of use of the microwave when it comes to repairs and replacement parts, more so than the exact issue. In the table below, you will see the leading brands and their average repair costs.

Labor Costs to Repair a Microwave

Homeowners can make some simple repairs on their own, but in most cases, a professional repair expert ensures that the microwave is fixed properly and safe to use. Professionals have the knowledge and experience to work with all microwave brands and models. Plus, they have quick access to needed parts, which gets your appliance up and running faster. They are also knowledgeable when working with electricity, making the repair safer.

Paying for labor usually costs about $50 to $100 an hour in most areas for a qualified repair professional. Many repairs take an hour or less, with more complicated ones only taking about 2 hours. Expect to pay a $50 to $100 service call fee to have the repair expert come to your home and assess the problem. This fee is usually credited back to the homeowner if they proceed with the repair.

Microwave Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting may be required to determine what is wrong with the microwave. As you may have noticed, several situations can result in different types of damage or repair needs. Some issues may be simple enough to seem like DIY work, such as replacing a fuse or diagnosing a broken door latch. Depending on what is wrong with your microwave, you can use the information in this guide and elsewhere online to diagnose the problem. However, it is best to leave it to the repairmen who are experienced in working with appliance repairs and electrical issues. Troubleshooting ensures that the exact problem is determined and the right solution is implemented and is generally part of the process of diagnosing the problem when a repair professional shows up to fix your microwave. If troubleshooting is ineffective, it might be time to replace the unit

Maintenance

It is always cheaper to keep your microwave in good working order rather than being forced to pay for costly repairs. Here are some tips for properly maintaining your microwave oven and avoiding future problems:

• Keep it clean both inside and out: Failing to clean spills can cause corrosion on the inside and outside of your appliance. Every time you run the microwave, it heats the spills, making it less efficient and forcing it to work harder.
• Never run it empty: When you run a microwave with nothing in it, the water molecules in the food are absent, redirecting those microwaves back into the magnetron. Over time, this will damage it.
• Never use metal in your microwave: The microwaves emitted during usage bounce off the metal and burn the interior components of the appliance.
• Use proper containers: Not all containers, especially plastic, are safe to use in a microwave. Some melt, which can damage the interior of the appliance. Use only microwave-safe containers when heating food, and avoid all metals and plates with gold or silver accents.
• Cover food when heating: Avoid splashes, which can clog parts and cause corrosion, by covering all foods when heating.
• Do not over-pack the appliance: Read your instruction manual and follow all weight limitations to ensure the food cooks evenly and you are not overworking the appliance’s motorized parts.
• Check the door: Be sure the door closes properly every time it is in use. That keeps the microwaves inside and the motor from running too hard.
• Guard against power surges: Sudden electrical surges can short out many of a microwave oven’s components. Avoid this problem by using a power surge protector. You can usually buy a good-quality one at your local home improvement store for under $40.

Microwave Repair vs Replace Cost

Since Microwaves are generally inexpensive, replacing the unit is sometimes much more cost-effective than investing money in repairs that could cost as much as (or more than) a brand-new model. Still, many homeowners prefer to fix what is wrong instead of shopping for a newer model. Most experts agree that age is a major consideration in microwave replacement cost and repair decisions. Microwaves are built to last eight to ten years. If your model is more than six years old, it is probably time for a new one.

The brand and model are also important since higher-end models cost $1,000 or more to replace versus a few hundred to repair. Lower-end models costing around $300 brand new are likely a better deal than shelling out $150 for the average repair. No matter how much you love your current model, there are times when replacing it is a must. If your appliance sparks, smokes, or smells like something is burning, it is no longer safe to use and should be replaced. Likewise, when your food is not cooking or heating throughout, the fix may cost more than a new appliance. The table below shows the average cost of microwave replacement and repair so you can compare them more easily.

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