When I open the door of the microwave the circuit breaker for the wall socket into which the microwave is plugged pops. This also happens if I have the microwave door opened with it unplugged and then plug it into the wall outlet. If I start with the microwave unplugged, and the door closed, then plug it into the wall and turn it on without ever opening the door it works fine. After reading a bunch of your problem diagnosis (and safety warnings) this sounds like a door or other interlock switch problem. I have removed the cover of the microwave, and know how to replace any/all of the switches. What I am not clear on is, if there is a bad switch in the unit, why would it cause a breaker to pop instead of just keeping the magnetron or the entire unit from coming on? I can't see any evidenc of any arcing or any burned smell on any of the wiring.
It does sound odd for it to blow the breaker. It should blow the fuse, not the breaker. But looking at the exploded view diagram, I don't even see a fuse! Makes me wonder if this is some foreign model. *grin* In any event, you will need to replace all the door switches since they all have been stressed by the same overcurrent. Also be sure that all the switch mount and door latch parts are activating properly when you open and close the door. The switches (generic replacements) are widely available from local appliance parts stores. If you need any other parts, you can see an exploded view and parts list here: http://www.geappliances.com/shop/prts/
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Actually, I should have mentioned that the fuse did blow once, but the other dozen times I was trying to diagnose the problem, the breaker popped (on two different 20 Amp circuits). The fuse is located right where the power cord enters the microwave. It is a standard 20 Amp ceramic fuse available at Radio Shack.
I also noticed when researching this problem that the GE exploded view on their web site does not show all of the components in the microwave. Their web site doesn't give you an option to order a fuse!
I'm still wondering why a bad switch would cause that behavior. It seems to me that a switch should just open or close a circuit. How can it cause a breaker to pop or a fuse to blow without some other evidence of arcing?
Thanks for your help.
I have the same problem. Called a GE technician who said that a whole lot of switches may need replacement and gave me a total of $435 for the fix. I am better off buying a new one... prob not a GE one though!
microwave samsung over the range will not power up checked electric plug works fine circuit breaker is fine does nothing no sound nothing
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