Unlock the Right Part
for Your Repair
Find the exact part you need
Enter your model number to see parts that fit your machine.
Price Match Guarantee
In-stock parts ship the same day
365-Day Return Policy
Price Match GuaranteeChoose Product
Identify Problem
03
Find Solutions
HomeRepair HelpLitton Microwave RepairLitton Microwave is tripping circuit breaker Repair
Litton Microwave is tripping circuit breaker
If your Litton microwave is tripping the circuit breaker, the most likely cause is a failed door switch. Most models use three or four switches, including primary, secondary, and monitor switches, that actuate in sequence when the door closes. A defective switch can short the circuit, blow the line fuse, or trip the breaker, especially when opening or closing the door. Less common causes include a shorted high-voltage capacitor, shorted magnetron, or failed high-voltage transformer. A transformer that has shorted may arc or produce a burnt smell. Testing these parts requires a multimeter and access to the microwave's interior, but this is not a routine DIY repair. The high-voltage capacitor can store thousands of volts, including a lethal charge, even after the microwave is unplugged. Before removing the outer cabinet or servicing the door switch, high-voltage capacitor, magnetron, or high-voltage transformer, the capacitor must be properly discharged. If you are not familiar with safe discharge procedures, have a qualified technician perform the repair. Enter your Litton microwave model number to find the exact replacement door switch or other part for your specific appliance.
01 - Litton 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...
Enter model number to search for the required part specific to your product
Top Solution
02 - Litton 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 - Litton 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 - Litton 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 Litton microwave tripping the circuit breaker?
How do I know whether a Litton microwave door switch is causing the breaker to trip?
Could a high-voltage capacitor, magnetron, or transformer be tripping my Litton microwave breaker?
What should I do if my Litton microwave trips the breaker and smells burnt or sparks?
How do I find the correct Litton microwave door switch or other replacement part?
Shop by Litton Microwave Parts
Shop by Popular Litton Microwave Models
Our Story
Family-owned and operated since 1912, Burke America Parts Group is the longest-running genuine appliance, HVAC, and outdoor power equipment parts solution in North America. At Repair Clinic, we're proud to be an international brand trusted by the pros as well as the DIY community.
About Repair Clinic
© 2026 RepairClinic.com