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HomeRepair HelpTappan Microwave RepairTappan Microwave producing a burning smell Repair
Tappan Microwave producing a burning smell
When your Tappan microwave smells like burning, stop using it until you identify the source. The most likely cause is a damaged or loose waveguide cover, which can arc and create a microwave burning smell. With the oven unplugged, check the cover for burn marks, cracks, or movement, and replace it if needed. If the cavity is clean and the waveguide cover is intact, inspect the power supply board for burned areas or a shorted component. Next, a defective high-voltage capacitor or capacitor may be overheating, often with visible damage or burn marks. A damaged thermostat can also produce a burning smell from your microwave. Finally, check the interior cavity for spilled food or grease. Food debris can continue cooking and cause a microwave to smell like burning plastic or burnt food, so clean the cavity and cover food during use. Repairs involving the power supply board, high-voltage capacitor, high-voltage diode, or other high-voltage components require caution. The capacitor can store a lethal charge even after the microwave is unplugged and must be properly discharged before opening the outer cabinet. If you are not familiar with capacitor discharge procedures, hire a qualified technician. Enter your Tappan microwave model number to find the exact replacement part.
01 - Tappan Microwave Waveguide Cover
The waveguide cover might be damaged and arcing or burning. If this is the case or if the cover will not stay in place, replace it with a new one.
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02 - Tappan Microwave Power Supply Board
If you've confirmed the oven cavity has been cleaned of all food debris and the waveguide cover is in good condition, a defective power supply board could be one of the components producing a burning smell. You should inspect the board for any burn marks or a shorted component and replace if necessary.
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03 - Tappan Microwave High Voltage Capacitor
The high voltage capacitor works with the high voltage diode to convert the output of the transformer to DC voltage and to double the output voltage. A defective capacitor may overheat and produce a burning smell. Inspect the capacitor for visible damage or burn marks and replace if necessary.
Highly Likely
04 - Tappan Microwave Capacitor
The capacitor works with the high voltage diode to convert the output of the transformer to DC voltage and to double the output voltage. A defective capacitor may overheat and produce a burning smell. Inspect the capacitor for visible damage or burn marks and replace if necessary.
Highly Likely
05 - Tappan Microwave Thermostat
If you've confirmed the oven cavity has been cleaned of all food debris and the waveguide cover is in good condition, a defective thermostat could be one of the components producing a burning smell. You should inspect the component for any burn marks or damage and replace if necessary.
Highly Likely
06 - Interior Cavity not Clean
Food that is left on the interior of the microwave can continue to cook each time the microwave is used, resulting in a burning smell. Always cover food when cooking to avoid splatter and wipe up any spills after use.
Highly Likely
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Tappan microwave smell like burning?
Is a burning smell from a Tappan microwave dangerous?
Can a sparking waveguide cover cause a burning smell in my microwave?
Could the power supply board or capacitor be causing the burning smell?
How do I find the correct Tappan microwave waveguide cover or other replacement part?
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