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Danby Microwave turns on by itself

When a Danby microwave is turning on by itself, first check whether the touchpad responds normally. If it does, the main control board is the most likely cause and may need replacement. On an over-the-range Danby microwave, the vent fan may turn on automatically while stovetop cooking to cool the unit, then shut off when the microwave reaches a safe temperature. If the microwave runs when the door opens or starts unexpectedly at other times, a faulty interlock switch is another likely cause. A damaged or misaligned switch holder can prevent the door switches from engaging correctly. Less commonly, intermittent contact in the touchpad and control panel button circuits, or in the touchpad itself, can cause a microwave turning on by itself. Test door interlock switches with a multimeter and inspect the switch holder before replacing parts. Enter your Danby microwave model number to find the exact replacement part for your appliance. Any repair that requires removing the outer cabinet must be handled carefully because the high-voltage capacitor can store a lethal charge even after the microwave is unplugged. It must be properly discharged before interior work, so use a qualified technician if you are not familiar with capacitor discharge procedures.

01 - Danby 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 - Danby 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.
Common

04 - Danby 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.
Common

05 - Danby 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.
Less Common

06 - Danby 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.
Less Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Danby microwave turn on by itself?
Why does my Danby microwave fan turn on by itself?
How do I test a Danby microwave interlock switch or door switch?
Could a Danby microwave touchpad or control panel cause it to turn on by itself?
How do I find the correct Danby microwave replacement part?