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HomeRepair HelpKenmore Microwave RepairKenmore Microwave is tripping circuit breaker Repair
Kenmore Microwave is tripping circuit breaker
If your Kenmore microwave is tripping the circuit breaker, especially when the door closes, a defective door switch is the most likely cause. Most models use three or four interlock switches that actuate in sequence, and a failed primary door switch, secondary door switch, monitor switch, or other interlock switch can short the circuit, blow the line fuse, or trip the breaker. Test each switch for continuity and replace any switch that fails. A shorted high-voltage capacitor is the next likely cause, followed by a shorted magnetron. A failed high-voltage transformer is less common, but it may arc or produce a burnt smell when it shorts. These components are inside the cabinet and involve dangerous high voltage. The high-voltage capacitor can store a lethal charge even after the microwave is unplugged, so it must be properly discharged before interior work. Door switch, capacitor, magnetron, and transformer repairs may require a qualified technician if you are not familiar with capacitor discharge procedures. Enter your Kenmore microwave's model number to find the exact replacement part for your specific appliance.
01 - Kenmore Microwave Door Switch
Most microwaves have three or four door switches. When the microwave door closes, the door switches actuate in sequence to ensure that the door is closed properly. If any of the door switches fail, the microwave line fuse can blow, or the circuit breaker may trip. To determine if any of the door switches are defective, use a multimeter to test each of the switches for continuity. If any of the door switches lack continuity, replace the defective switch. (Caution: The microwave oven can store thousands of volts of electricity in its high voltage capacitor, even after the microwave oven has been unplugged. Due to the potenti...
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02 - Kenmore Microwave High Voltage Capacitor
A microwave that is tripping a circuit breaker can be caused by a shorted high voltage capacitor. You can determine that a capacitor has shorted by contacting one multimeter lead to one of the capacitor's terminals and the other lead to the casing. If meter display indicates that electrical continuity is present between any of the capacitor terminals and the casing, or the terminals show continuous continuity between them, the component has shorted and will need to be replaced.
Uncommon But Possible
03 - Kenmore Microwave Magnetron
A microwave that is tripping a circuit breaker can be caused by a shorted magnetron. You can determine that a magnetron has shorted by contacting one multimeter lead to one of the magnetron's terminals and the other lead to the casing. If meter display indicates that electrical continuity is present between any of the terminals and the casing, the magnetron has shorted and will need to be replaced.
Uncommon But Possible
04 - Kenmore Microwave High Voltage Transformer
A microwave that is tripping a circuit breaker can be caused by a shorted high voltage transformer. When a high voltage transformer shorts out, it will usually arc and smell burnt.
Uncommon But Possible
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Kenmore microwave tripping the circuit breaker?
Could a Kenmore microwave door switch cause the breaker to trip?
What should I check if my microwave keeps tripping the breaker when the door opens?
How do I test a Kenmore microwave capacitor, magnetron, or transformer?
How can I find the correct Kenmore microwave replacement part?
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