Microwave Runs but
Doesn’t Heat?
Plate spinning? Lights on? But food stays cold? Learn how to identify if it’s a Magnetron or Capacitor failure and get safe repair options in Bengaluru & Mysuru.
HIGH VOLTAGE DANGER
Never open a microwave yourself. Microwaves contain a high-voltage capacitor that stores a lethal electrical charge even when the appliance is unplugged. One wrong touch can be fatal. Always hire a certified professional for Magnetron or Capacitor checks.
Why is My Microwave Running but Not Heating?
It’s a common scenario in Indian kitchens: you put your curry in to reheat, the microwave hums and rotates for 2 minutes, but when you take the bowl out, it’s still ice cold.
This “ghost running” means the low-voltage parts (timer, plate motor, light) are working, but the **High-Voltage Circuit** (the part that actually creates heat) has failed.
Magnetron vs. Capacitor
Think of the Magnetron as the engine and the Capacitor as the battery jump-starter.
- The Capacitor supplies massive voltage to the Magnetron.
- The Magnetron converts that voltage into heat waves.
- If either fails, your heating stops instantly.
Note: In Indian homes, sudden voltage fluctuations often blow these components faster than normal.
Symptom Comparison
How to tell which part is likely broken.
| Symptom | Likely Magnetron Issue | Likely Capacitor Issue |
|---|---|---|
| Sound | Loud humming or buzzing noise | Sudden loud “pop” or dead silence |
| Smell | Burning metal/plastic smell | Acrid electrical smell |
| Heating | Zero heat or very weak heating | Stops heating instantly and permanently |
| Visual | Possible sparking inside cavity | Often looks swollen or leaked (internal) |
Prevent Component Failure
Don’t Run Empty
Running a microwave with nothing inside reflects waves back to the magnetron, burning it out instantly.
Clean Splatters
Old food stains on the “Mica Sheet” can cause sparking that eventually destroys the magnetron tube.
Use Stabilizer
In Mysuru & Bengaluru, voltage spikes kill capacitors. A dedicated stabilizer extends life by 3+ years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth repairing an old microwave?
If the microwave is over 7 years old and the magnetron has failed, replacement is usually better. For high-end convection models under 5 years, repair is highly cost-effective.
How much does it cost to fix?
Replacing a capacitor is relatively cheap (₹800-₹1500), while a genuine Magnetron replacement costs more (₹1800-₹3500) depending on the brand (LG, Samsung, IFB, etc.).
Can I just replace the fuse?
A blown high-voltage fuse is usually a symptom of a bad capacitor or magnetron. Replacing the fuse without fixing the root cause will just blow the new fuse again.
Don’t Risk DIY. Call the Experts.
Aspire provides safe, certified, and doorstep microwave repair in Mysuru & Bengaluru.
CALL ASPIRE: 9066472722