E-Wave Microwave turns on by itself

When your E-Wave microwave is turning on by itself, first check whether only the vent fan is running. On an over-the-range microwave, a vent fan thermostat may automatically turn the fan on while stovetop cooking to cool the unit, then shut it off after the microwave cools. If the microwave is actually starting a cooking cycle, test the touchpad first. If the touchpad works correctly, the main control board is the most likely cause and may need replacement. A faulty interlock switch can also make the microwave turn on by itself, so test the door switches with a multimeter. Next, inspect the switch holder behind the control panel. A damaged or misaligned holder may prevent the interlock switches from engaging correctly. Less commonly, intermittent contact between circuits in the touchpad and control panel, or a defective touchpad, can trigger the microwave. Enter your model number to find the exact replacement main control board, interlock switch, switch holder, touchpad, or control panel for your E-Wave microwave. Any repair that requires opening the outer cabinet carries a serious hazard because the high-voltage capacitor can store a lethal charge even after unplugging. Properly discharge it before interior work, or hire a qualified technician if you are not familiar with capacitor discharge procedures.

01 - E-Wave 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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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 - E-Wave 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 - E-Wave 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 - E-Wave 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 - E-Wave 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 E-Wave microwave turn on by itself?

Is an E-Wave microwave fan turning on by itself normal?

How do I test the interlock switch when my microwave turns on by itself?

Should I replace the E-Wave microwave main control board or touchpad first?

How do I find the correct E-Wave microwave part number?

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