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Emerson Microwave turns on by itself

If your Emerson microwave is turning on by itself, first check whether only the vent fan is running. On an over-the-range model, the fan can turn on automatically while stovetop cooking to cool the microwave and should shut off after the unit cools. If the microwave starts heating or the fan runs when it should not, make sure the touchpad responds correctly. A defective main control board is the most likely cause when the touchpad works normally and may need replacement. A failing interlock switch can also cause a microwave to turn on by itself, especially when the door opens or closes. Inspect the switch holder behind the control panel for damage or misalignment that prevents the door switches from engaging correctly. Less commonly, intermittent contact in the Emerson touchpad and control panel button circuits, or in the touchpad alone, can send an unintended start signal. Testing door switches with a multimeter and replacing the faulty part can correct the problem. Enter your model number to find the exact replacement part for your Emerson microwave. Any repair requiring the outer cabinet to be removed must be handled carefully because the high-voltage capacitor can store lethal charge even after unplugging. Proper capacitor discharge is required, so use a qualified technician if you are unfamiliar with the procedure.

01 - Emerson 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.
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Top Solution

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 - Emerson 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.
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Common

04 - Emerson Microwave Switch Holder

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.
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Common

05 - Emerson Microwave Touchpad and Control Panel

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.
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Less Common

06 - Emerson Microwave Touchpad

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.
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Less Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Emerson microwave fan turn on by itself?
Why does my Emerson microwave turn on by itself or when the door opens?
How do I test an Emerson microwave door switch or interlock switch?
Can a bad touchpad or control board make an Emerson microwave turn on by itself?
How do I find the correct Emerson microwave part for this problem?

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