If your Gibson over-the-range microwave turns on by itself, first confirm whether only the vent fan is running while you cook on the stovetop. A vent fan thermostat can automatically start the fan to cool the microwave and should shut it off once the appliance cools. If the touchpad works correctly and 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 send the wrong signal, so test the door switches with a multimeter and replace the switch if it fails. Next, inspect the switch holder behind the control panel. If it is damaged or misaligned, the door switches may not engage properly. Less commonly, intermittent contact between circuits in the touchpad and control panel, or in the touchpad itself, can cause a Gibson microwave to turn on by itself. Enter your model number to find the exact main control board, interlock switch, switch holder, touchpad, or control panel for your microwave. Any repair requiring removal of the outer cabinet must be handled carefully because the high-voltage capacitor can store a lethal charge even after unplugging. Proper capacitor discharge is required before interior work, and a qualified technician should perform the repair if you are unfamiliar with that procedure.
01 - Gibson 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 - Gibson 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.
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.
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.
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.