Oven Convection Fan Not Working? 6 Causes and What to Do
A convection fan that will not spin is usually a failed fan motor, a seized blade, a door switch or a relay on the control board. Here is how to narrow it down.
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Why do microwave buttons stop working?
Microwave buttons stop responding for 5 common reasons: child lock is on, the control needs a reset after a power blip, the keypad film is worn or damaged by steam, a door switch tells the control the door is open, or the control board is failing. Start with the lock and a reset, because those cost nothing.
For over-the-range and built-in units from GE, Whirlpool, Samsung, LG, Bosch, Sharp and Panasonic, our appliance repair Mountain View CA technicians can test the keypad and board in your kitchen.
What should you try first?
- Check for a lock icon on the display. Press and hold Stop/Cancel or Lock for 3 to 5 seconds.
- Reset the power. Unplug the microwave, or turn off its breaker, for 2 minutes. Then set the clock.
- Clean the panel with a barely damp cloth. Do not spray cleaner straight onto the keys.
- Open and close the door firmly. Listen for the latch clicks.
- Test several buttons. If only one row fails, the keypad is the likely cause.
What are the 5 most common causes?
1. Child lock is on
A lock is easy to turn on by accident when you wipe the panel. The display may show "LOC" or a padlock.
2. The control needs a reset
A short power dip can freeze the control. Cutting power for a few minutes clears it.
3. Worn or steam-damaged keypad
The keypad is a thin film over a circuit. Years of presses, steam from the stove below and grease can break the traces. Buttons may need hard presses or fail in a pattern.
4. Door switch fault
If a door switch fails, the control thinks the door is open and ignores Start. The light may stay on or off when it should not.
5. Failing control board
If the display flickers, goes blank or shows random digits, the board itself may be failing.
Keypad still dead after a reset? Call now for microwave repair in Mountain View.
What should you never do?
Do not open the microwave case. The high-voltage capacitor inside can hold a dangerous charge even after it is unplugged. Keypads, door switches and boards sit close to it, so these repairs belong with a trained technician.
Also check the CPSC recall list for your model. Some microwaves have been recalled for turning on by themselves, which is a fire risk.
Repair or replace?
Most microwave repairs in Mountain View cost about $120 to $350 with parts and labor. For an over-the-range or built-in unit, a new keypad or door switch is usually worth it. For an inexpensive countertop model, replacement often costs less. Our repair or replace guide walks through the choice. If your microwave runs but does not warm food, read microwave not heating.
Other common repairs we see in Mountain View
Something else acting up? These guides may help: my oven wont turn on, my oven is not heating up all the way, washer wont drain and dishwasher no water.
Frequently asked questions
Why are my microwave buttons not working?
The most common causes are child lock being on, a control that needs a reset after a power surge, a worn or wet keypad, a door switch that tells the control the door is open, or a failing control board.
How do I turn off child lock on a microwave?
On most models, press and hold Stop/Cancel or the Lock button for 3 to 5 seconds until the lock icon goes away. Your owner's manual lists the exact step for your brand.
Can steam damage a microwave keypad?
Yes. Steam and grease from the cooktop below an over-the-range microwave can seep under the keypad film. The buttons may stick, stop working or start the oven on their own.
Is it worth fixing a microwave keypad?
For an over-the-range or built-in microwave, it often is. Most microwave repairs in Mountain View cost about $120 to $350. A small countertop unit is usually cheaper to replace.
