How to check the magnetron of a microwave oven for serviceability

A microwave oven is made up of many parts that actively complement each other’s work. The failure of one leads to the cessation of operation of all components.

One of the main components is the magnetron. When a malfunction occurs in the operation of the microwave, it is the first thing to be checked.

Purpose and device

Heating and cooking food in the microwave is carried out due to the radiation emitted by the magnetron.

Reference. A magnetron is an electron tube that uses a magnetic field and electrons to generate microwaves.

The speed of cooking depends on the power that a given lamp can produce. The higher its power, the higher the speed will increase. In other words, the magnetron is the main element, the serviceability of which ensures the functionality of the entire microwave oven.

How the device works

The following components are distinguished in the design of an important microwave part.

• Antenna for emitting microwaves.
• Cylinder for antenna insulation.
• Magnetic core that distributes the magnetic field.
• Magnets for flux distribution.
• A radiator that protects the element from overheating.
• Filter.

Like any part, a magnetron may periodically fail due to frequent use.We’ll talk about the main factors for stopping work and popular verification methods below.

Symptoms of a problem

The failure of a microwave oven becomes a real problem for every housewife. After all, the microwave has long become an indispensable assistant in the process of preparing and heating dishes.

The main signs of a faulty part

• Stop heating. The microwave oven operates but does not heat or heats up intermittently.
• The appearance of smoke and sparking inside the housing of the household appliance.
• The appearance of melted areas on the inner walls of the microwave.
• The appearance of extraneous noise (humming or buzzing) when the mode is turned on.

The manifestation of any of these factors indicates the occurrence of malfunctions among the parts of the microwave oven. Correct diagnosis and timely repair will help quickly solve the problem.

Checking the magnetron

Visual inspection

In order to find out the main reasons for the failure of a microwave oven, you can use several methods for checking the magnetron. The first of them is visual.

First of all, it is necessary to check the appropriate supply of electricity, as this may be the reason. Try plugging the microwave into a different outlet.

Important! For stable use of the microwave and to prevent injuries and accidents, it is recommended to use special adapters.

If the reason is not the power supply, you need to inspect the inside of the microwave. The presence of melted or burnt areas indicates a malfunction of the magnetron. To accurately determine the cause, it is recommended to inspect all components of the part.

Checking individual parts

To check all elements, the magnetron must be removed from the microwave oven body. To do this, remove the rear housing cover and find the required part. It is located next to the transformer. For accurate diagnostics, carefully remove the part from the housing.

Important: before carrying out the process of removing the magnetron, the microwave must be de-energized.

Cap

The main reason for stopping work is most often a burnt cap. It acts as an antenna for emitting microwaves and is the first to fail. You can no longer use such a device in everyday life.

Stub

The next stopping factor is the melting of the plastic plug or mica plate. It protects the magnetron waveguide from food particles and fat. With frequent use and poor care of the internal casing, the plate begins to melt.

Waveguide

Regular use and lack of proper care of the microwave body can be the main reasons for damage to the waveguide. He is engaged in the output of microwave rays from the magnetron into the chamber of a household appliance. The absence of plaque and obvious damage indicates its serviceability.

Magnets

If the magnetic system fails, the part must be replaced with a new one. If only the upper magnet is damaged (it may burst), you only need to replace it.

Filament

Filaments can also cause device failure. Upon inspection, obvious damage is noticeable as a result of burnt threads.

Depressurization

A possible reason for the equipment to stop functioning may be its depressurization.In this situation, it is necessary to replace the magnetron, since without proper vacuum it is impossible to restore the natural operation of the magnetron.

Note: It is not recommended to carry out repair work to replace the magnetron or its components on your own. It is better to contact professionals at specialized service centers.

Checking with a multimeter

To conduct a high-quality and complete check, experts recommend using a multimeter. The tester can measure DC and AC voltage, test diodes and determine the exact cause of a microwave oven malfunction. This device will be especially useful if there are no external signs of damage.

Performing a test

• To carry out the test, you must turn on the measuring device and set the initial value to 200 Ohms.
• Next you need to connect the probes to the magnetron contacts.
• The optimal value is 0.7-1 units. Deviation from the values ​​indicates a malfunction of the instrument.
• The complete absence of any shifts or new indicators indicates disturbances in the operation of the filaments. The main reason is their breaking off. Here you will need the help of a specialist in carrying out repair work.

Capacitor check

You can also test the capacitor using a multimeter. It performs the functions of a battery when the magnetron operates. Therefore, its failure can provoke the cessation of the functionality of the magnetron itself.

The essence of the test is to ring the capacitor using a testing device.

• To do this, you need to set the multimeter to its maximum values.
• Next, connect one multimeter probe to the contact (you can use any one), and establish precise contact with the other one with the capacitor body.
• If in good condition, the indicators should stop their values ​​at the “infinity” mark.
• Any deviations indicate failure. If the charge penetrates the housing, it means that damage has occurred in the capacitor itself. The device needs repair or replacement.

Help: the use of measuring devices to measure indicators cannot always guarantee the correct values ​​and accuracy of the data.

Conclusion

The magnetron is the main part of a microwave oven. Proper care of the device and timely diagnosis of any damage will help extend the life of the microwave oven.