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HomeRepair HelpGE Microwave RepairGE Microwave turns on by itself Repair

GE Microwave turns on by itself

When a GE microwave turns on by itself, first determine whether the vent fan is simply cooling the unit or whether the microwave is actually starting a cooking cycle. On most over-the-range GE microwaves, a vent fan thermostat automatically turns on the exhaust fan while you cook on the stovetop and shuts it off after the microwave cools. If the touchpad is working but the microwave starts operating without a command, 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. Test the door switches with a multimeter and replace the defective switch if needed. A damaged or misaligned switch holder behind the control panel may prevent the door switches from engaging correctly. Less commonly, circuits in the GE touchpad and control panel, or the touchpad itself, may intermittently contact and trigger operation. Enter your model number to find the exact main control board, interlock switch, switch holder, touchpad, or control panel for your microwave. Any repair that requires opening the outer cabinet carries a serious risk because the high-voltage capacitor can store a lethal charge even when unplugged. Proper capacitor discharge is required, so use a qualified technician if you are not familiar with this procedure.

01 - GE 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 - GE 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 - GE 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 - GE 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 - GE 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 GE over-the-range microwave fan turn on by itself?
Can a GE microwave interlock switch cause it to turn on by itself?
Could the microwave door latch or switch holder be causing this problem?
Is the GE microwave touchpad or control board causing it to turn on by itself?
How do I find the correct GE microwave part for this repair?

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