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Whirlpool Microwave turns on by itself

If your Whirlpool microwave is turning on by itself, first determine whether it is the vent fan or the microwave cooking function. On most over-the-range microwaves, the vent fan can turn on automatically while you cook on the stovetop, then shut off after the microwave cools. If the microwave starts cooking without a command, a defective main control board is the most likely cause after confirming the touchpad works. A malfunctioning interlock switch can also make a microwave turn on when the door opens or closes. Next, inspect the switch holder behind the control panel for damage or misalignment, since it may prevent the door switches from engaging correctly. Intermittent contact in the touchpad and control panel button circuits, or in the touchpad itself, is less common but can cause microwave turning on by itself. Enter your Whirlpool microwave model number to find the exact replacement main control board, interlock switch, switch holder, touchpad, or control panel 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. Proper capacitor discharge is required before interior work, and a qualified technician should perform the repair if you are not familiar with that procedure.

01 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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 Whirlpool over-the-range microwave fan turn on by itself?
Can a door switch cause my Whirlpool microwave to turn on by itself?
Is the Whirlpool microwave touchpad or control board causing it to turn on by itself?
How do I find the correct Whirlpool microwave part for this repair?
Is it safe to test a Whirlpool microwave that keeps turning on by itself?

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