If your Roper over-the-range microwave turns on by itself, first check whether the touchpad is responding correctly. If it is, the main control board is the most likely cause and may need replacement. However, if only the vent fan starts while you are cooking on the stovetop, this may be normal. The vent fan thermostat automatically turns the fan on to cool the microwave and should shut it off after the unit cools. A faulty interlock switch can also cause the microwave to start unexpectedly. Test the interlock switches with a multimeter and replace a defective switch. Next, inspect the switch holder behind the control panel. If it is damaged or misaligned, the door switches may not engage correctly. Less commonly, intermittent contact between circuits in the touchpad and control panel, or within the touchpad itself, can make the microwave turn on by itself. Enter your model number to find the exact Roper replacement part for your microwave. Any repair that requires removing the outer cabinet must be performed carefully because the high-voltage capacitor can store a lethal charge even after the microwave is unplugged. Proper capacitor discharge is required before interior work, so use a qualified technician if you are unfamiliar with the procedure.
01 - Roper Microwave Main Control Board
First, make sure that the touchpad is working properly. If the touchpad is working properly, the main control board is likely at fault. If the control board is defective, replace it.
Enter model number to search for the required part specific to your product
02 - Microwave cooling down during stovetop cooking
Most over-the-range microwaves have a vent fan thermostat that will turn the vent fan on automatically to keep the microwave from overheating. The fan will shut off after the microwave cools back down.
Highly Likely
03 - Roper Microwave Interlock Switch
A microwave that turns on by itself can be caused by a malfunctioning interlock switch. You can use a multimeter to test the interlock switches to determine if they are functioning appropriately and replace if necessary.
The microwave switch holder is the component that houses the door switches behind the control panel. If the switch holder is damaged or misaligned, the switches may not be properly engaged which could cause the microwave to turn on by itself. You will need to uninstall the control panel and inspect the switch holder to confirm it is in good condition and secured properly. Replace the switch holder with a new one if necessary.
It’s possible that the touchpad and control panel button circuits are coming into contact with each other intermittently which could cause the microwave to turn on by itself. If this happens, the touchpad and control panel will need to be replaced.
It’s possible that the touchpad button circuits are coming into contact with each other intermittently which could cause the microwave to turn on by itself. If this happens, the touchpad will need to be replaced.