Over-the-range Whirlpool microwaves are some of the best models packed with unique features. But even models with steam, sensor, and electronic cooking can fail to work optimally sometimes. That’s why you need a Whirlpool microwave over-the-range troubleshooting guide.
The most common problems linked to over-the-range Whirlpool microwaves include failure to start, inability to heat, bulb not lighting, the fan not working, and the unit making noise when in use. The worst-case scenario is perhaps if the microwave doesn’t start at all despite having power.
Having dealt with many of the microwave problems myself, I can tell you without a doubt that these issues aren’t difficult to fix.
So if you’re considering a do-it-yourself fix rather than hiring a professional technician to help you diagnose your Whirlpool microwave, you’ll find this guide helpful.
Whirlpool Microwave Over The Range Troubleshooting: 4 Problems and Fixes
The table below is a summary of the common issues linked to over-the-range Whirlpool microwaves and their quick fixes:
| Problem | Possible Solution | |
| 1. | Microwave not heating | Inspect the magnetron, and if burned out, replace it. Also, check to see if the diode is working and replace it if it is not functional. |
| 2. | Microwave fan not working | Use a multimeter to test the fan motor for continuity. Replace it if it fails the continuity test. |
| 3. | Microwave display not working | Check if the breaker has tripped, and switch it back on. Consider replacing the main control board is some components on it are faulty. |
| 4. | Microwave making noise | Check the diode, plate & drive motor, and cooling fan. Replace any part that appears damaged or doesn’t have continuity. |
| 5. | Microwave bulb not lighting | The light bulb itself might have burned out. Disassemble the microwave and replace it |
| 6. | Microwave not starting | The control lock could be on, so turn it off. Also, it’s likely the unit is not getting power, check if the circuit breaker has tripped in the fuse box. |
Also Read: What to Do If Whirlpool Microwave Start Button isn’t Working
Whirlpool Over-the-Range Microwave Not Heating
If that cup of coffee still comes out of your over-the-range microwave as cold as it was, the appliance has heating problems.
And here are the possible reasons why:
1. The Magnetron is Defective
If the diode is working but the over-the-range microwave isn’t heating, the magnetron has a problem.
If the magnetron malfunctions, the microwave won’t be able to heat any food or drink put in the heating chamber.
Test the magnetron’s resistance. If the magnetron doesn’t return a reading of 1ohm or below, get a new one for replacement.
2. The Diode Burnt
The work of a diode is to power the magnetron. It will convert alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC).
If the diode burns out, the magnetron will not get the power it needs to heat food.
Damages on the diode are visible, so it is easy to tell if the component has damages or burns. Or you can use a multimeter to test if the diode still has a continuous electrical path.
If the diode continuity test turns out negative, get a new one for replacement.
3. The High Voltage Capacitor is Defective
The high-voltage diode has one of its ends attached to the high-voltage capacitor, meaning the two components work together to covert and double the current sent to the magnetron.
A damaged capacitor will bulge, spark, or leak.
But if you don’t see any of these visual signs, use a multimeter to test whether the component can store and release charge as designed.
4. Blown Cavity Fuse, Thermal Fuse, or Thermal Protector
The cavity fuse, thermal protector, and thermal fuse are all designed to cut off power when the over-the-range microwave overheats.
If the microwave fails to heat, it is probably because one of or all of these fuses failed.
Use a multimeter to test each fuse for continuity. Once you have identified the fuse that has blown, replace it with a new one.
5. The Door Switch is Defective
The number of door switches a microwave has depends on the model. But on average, Whirlpool microwaves come with 3 to 4 door switches.
These switches engage the door and send signals to the main control telling it to start the appliance.
A door switch/sensor that is damaged can make your microwave stop heating.
Use a multimeter to test all the diodes to determine whether one, a couple or all of them have failed.
Replace any faulty door switch.
6. The High-Voltage Transformer is Faulty
You should also inspect the high-voltage transformer because it can also make your over-the-range Whirlpool microwave fail to heat.
A failing transformer will have a burning smell and frequently arc. Consider changing the transformer to get the unit to start heating again.
7. The Main Control Board Could Be Faulty
The main control is the part responsible for regulating power to all parts of your over-the-range Whirlpool microwave.
Therefore, it is a component to consider looking at when your microwave fails to heat your food.
The main control board is not prone to malfunctions. So you should start by checking other potentially defective components first before replacing it.
If all other components are in good condition, go ahead and replace the main control board with a new one.
Whirlpool Over-the-Range Microwave Display Not Working
Various components and issues like burnt/loose wires, faulty control panel, and power issues could be the reasons why the display on your over-the-range microwave is not working.
1. Faulty Main Control board
The most likely reason why the display on your over-the-range Whirlpool microwave is not working is that the main control board is defective.
A faulty display will have missing digits or lines, or even fail to show anything.
You will need to dismantle your microwave to get the main control for testing and replacement.
As you test and replace the main control, check the wire connections to ensure they are not loose.
2. Power Problems
As obvious as it sounds, the display on your microwave might not be working because the appliance is not getting power.
Check the power cord to ensure you have it plugged to a working power source. Preferably, unplug the power cord and then plug it in for proper insertion.
If power to your appliances is controlled from a fuse box, check the box to see if the breaker has tripped to cut off power.
Inspect the cable and ensure they don’t have cuts. If there are no signs of cuts, disassemble the appliance and check the main noise control board where the power cord meets the terminals to introduce power to the unit.
Check whether the power cord connects to the terminals on the control board firmly. Adjust any loose connection.
Also Read: How to Fix a Whirlpool Microwave Fan That Won’t Turn On
Whirlpool Over-the-Range Microwave Light Not Working
A light bulb lights when you open the microwave door and goes off when the door is closed.
There are times when the light bulb can fail to work, and it could be that:
1. The Light Bulb Might Have Burned Out
The first component to look at when the microwave light bulb is not working is the light bulb itself.
If the light bulb is the problem, replace it with a new one. To do this:
- Unplug the microwave from power.
- Locate the vent and remove the screws securing it in place.
- Next, locate the box that holds the halogen light and take its cover out.
- Unthread the screws holding the faulty light bulb and remove the bulb.
- Install the new light bulb.
- Reassemble the microwave, plug it back into power, and test whether the bulb is lighting.
2. The Main Control Could Be Faulty
Your microwave’s main control board could be faulty thus causing the light bulb to fail to turn on whenever you open the door.
Test the main control for continuity using a multimeter to ensure that the board is sending the right voltage to the light bulb. You may need to replace the board if no power is goes to the light bulb.
3. The Light Socket May Be Malfunctioning
The light socket could be another possible reason why your microwave’s light bulb is not lighting when you open the door.
Start by checking if the light bulb is in good condition.
In case the bulb still doesn’t light, try testing the socket for continuity and replace it if it fails the continuity test.
Also Read: Understanding Whirlpool Microwave Error Codes and Fixes
Whirlpool Over-the-Range Microwave Fan Not Working
If the fan of your over-the-range Whirlpool microwave is not working, do the following:
1. Check the Grease Filter
When the grease filter is clogged, it can cause the exhaust fan on your Whirlpool microwave to stop spinning.
The work of the grease filter is to keep your microwave’s exhaust system clear by trapping fats and oils.
But while it’s normal for the filter to fill, leaving the grease in the unit can hamper the optimal operation of the appliance.
Clean the grease filter.
2. Troubleshoot the Fan Motor
The work of the fan motor is to ensure the fan starts rotation as soon as the temperatures get too high.
If the fan motor failed:
- Unplug the microwave from power.
- Locate the fan motor at the top back of your microwave and remove it.
- Rotate the motor with your hands and then test for continuity.
- Replace the fan if it doesn’t have continuity and turn.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is there a Reset Button on a Whirlpool Microwave?
Unfortunately, even an over-the-range Whirlpool microwave doesn’t have a specific button that you can use for resetting.
However, you can press the “off/Clear” key to clear the display and reset your whirlpool microwave.
2. Does Unplugging a Microwave Reset it?
The other way you can reset your Whirlpool microwave is by performing a hard reset.
Simply unplug the appliance from power and wait for about 30 minutes then plug it back into power.
3. What Causes a Whirlpool Microwave to Stop Working Immediately?
Apart from a power outage, another thing that can make your Whirlpool microwave to stop working is a blown fuse.
A blown fuse will make your microwave’s circuitry system incomplete. So you should get a new fuse for replacement.
Final Thoughts
I hope this guide helps you to troubleshoot your over-the-range Whirlpool microwave from the comfort of your home.
If there’s one thing to take away from this is that these problems don’t require the help of a technician. You can fix them yourself and save a lot of money in repair service.