Unlock the Right Part
for Your Repair
Find the exact part you need
Enter your model number to see parts that fit your machine.
Price Match Guarantee
In-stock parts ship the same day
365-Day Return Policy
Price Match GuaranteeChoose Product
Identify Problem
03
Find Solutions
HomeRepair HelpTappan Microwave RepairTappan Microwave is sparking or arcing Repair
Tappan Microwave is sparking or arcing
Is your Tappan microwave sparking, arcing, smoking, or producing a burning smell? Start by inspecting the waveguide cover, which is the most likely cause when arcing appears in the oven cavity. Replace the cover if it is burned, damaged, or will not stay in place. If sparking occurs in the cabinet area rather than the cavity, a failed door switch may be shorting, so inspect the primary, secondary, and monitor switches for burn marks and test them with a multimeter. Arcing behind the waveguide cover can also indicate a damaged magnetron. Next, inspect the high-voltage diode, which may show visible burn damage and can be tested for continuity in one direction with a suitable multimeter. Check interior shelf supports for burned spots, and inspect the cavity for chipped paint that exposes metal. Lightly sand damaged areas and apply microwave-safe touch-up paint. Unplug the Tappan microwave before inspection. Any repair requiring the outer cabinet involves a high-voltage capacitor that can store a lethal charge even after unplugging, so it must be properly discharged. If you are not familiar with capacitor discharge procedures, use a qualified technician. Enter your model number to find the exact replacement part for your microwave.
01 - Tappan Microwave Waveguide Cover
The waveguide cover might be damaged and arcing or burning. If this is the case or if the cover will not stay in place, replace it with a new one.
Enter model number to search for the required part specific to your product
Top Solution
02 - Tappan Microwave Door Switch
If the microwave is sparking or arcing in the cabinet area, and not in the oven cavity, you will likely see smoke or there will be a burning smell. One of the appliance's door switches could have shorted and is causing the sparking or arcing. You should inspect each door switch for burn marks or damage and test the components with a multimeter to determine if any the door switches are malfunctioning.
Top Solution
03 - Tappan Microwave Magnetron
If the microwave is sparking or arcing behind the waveguide cover in the oven cavity, you will likely see smoke or there will be a burning smell. The appliance's magnetron is one of the components that could be damaged and causing the sparking or arcing. Inspect the magnetron for burn marks or damage and replace if necessary.
Top Solution
04 - Tappan Microwave Diode
If the microwave is sparking or arcing in the cabinet area, and not in the oven cavity, you will likely see smoke or there will be a burning smell. The appliance's diode is one of the components that could be damaged and causing the sparking or arcing. When the diode fails, it is often visibly burned out. Inspect the diode and if the diode is burned out, replace it. If inspecting the diode proves inconclusive, test it with a multimeter that uses a 9-volt battery or put a 9-volt battery in series with the diode. When the leads are reversed, the diode should only have continuity in one direction..
Top Solution
05 - Tappan Microwave Shelf Support
Some microwave ovens will have cooking shelf supports on the interior walls. Inspect the shelf supports for any burnt spots or damage. If there are any burnt or damaged spots, replace with new supports as needed.
Top Solution
06 - Tappan Microwave Touch-Up Paint
The paint on the interior of the microwave might be chipped. If the paint is chipped, the interior metal will be exposed, causing the microwave to spark or arc. Check the interior of the microwave for any spots where the paint has chipped away. If there are any damaged spots, gently sand the compromised area and touch them up with microwave oven interior paint.
Top Solution
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Tappan microwave sparking inside?
What should I check if my microwave is sparking behind the waveguide cover?
Can a Tappan microwave door switch cause sparking or arcing?
Is a microwave that sparks and smells like burning safe to use?
How do I find the correct Tappan microwave waveguide cover or door switch?
Shop by Tappan Microwave Parts
Shop by Popular Tappan Microwave Models
Our Story
Family-owned and operated since 1912, Burke America Parts Group is the longest-running genuine appliance, HVAC, and outdoor power equipment parts solution in North America. At Repair Clinic, we're proud to be an international brand trusted by the pros as well as the DIY community.
About Repair Clinic
© 2026 RepairClinic.com