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HomeRepair HelpKitchenAid Microwave RepairKitchenAid Microwave exhaust fan not working Repair
KitchenAid Microwave exhaust fan not working
If your KitchenAid over-the-range microwave exhaust fan is not working, the most likely cause is a defective door switch that fails to signal the control board when the door is closed. Test each door switch for continuity and replace any switch that fails. Next, check the exhaust fan motor by turning the fan blades by hand. If the blades do not turn freely, replace the motor. If they turn freely, test the motor for incoming power and continuity. A defective thermostat can also prevent the vent fan from turning on, so test it for continuity. Inspect the grille for grease buildup, blockage, or visible damage that could restrict airflow. If the motor is not receiving power, the control module may be faulty, although it is less common than the other causes. A defective micro switch can create the same door-signal problem as a door switch. Before opening the cabinet, unplug the microwave and use proper safety procedures. The high-voltage capacitor can store a lethal charge even after the microwave is unplugged, so it must be properly discharged before interior work. If you are not familiar with capacitor discharge, hire a qualified technician. Enter your model number to find the exact KitchenAid replacement part for your microwave.
01 - KitchenAid Microwave Door Switch
A defective door switch may not signal the control board that the door is closed, which can prevent the button that controls the exhaust fan from functioning. To determine if any of the door switches are defective, use a multimeter to test each of the switches for continuity. If any of the door switches do not have continuity, the switch or switches should be replaced.
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02 - KitchenAid Microwave Exhaust Fan Motor
To determine if the fan motor is defective, remove the fan motor from the microwave and try turning the fan blades by hand. If the blades do not turn freely, replace the fan motor. If the fan blades do turn freely, use a multimeter to test the motor for incoming power and for continuity. If the motor has power but won’t run, replace it. If the motor does not have continuity, replace it.
Top Solution
03 - KitchenAid Microwave Thermostat
The thermostat monitors the air temperature and turns on the fan when necessary. If the thermostat is defective, it won’t turn on the exhaust fan at all. Use a multimeter to test the thermostat for continuity. If the thermostat does not have continuity, replace it.
Top Solution
04 - KitchenAid Microwave Grille
A damaged or clogged grille can prevent the air from being properly exhausted when the exhaust fan is turned on. Confirm the grille is free of obstruction and, if the grille is visibly damaged, replace the component with a new one.
Highly Likely
05 - KitchenAid Microwave Control Module
If the microwave exhaust fan is not working, the control module might be defective. However, this is not usually the case. Before replacing the control module, first check the exhaust fan motor and wiring. If the exhaust fan motor is not getting power, the control module might be at fault and require replacement.
Common
06 - KitchenAid Microwave Micro Switch
A defective micro switch may not signal the control board that the door is closed, which can prevent the button that controls the exhaust fan from functioning. To determine if any of the micro switches are defective, use a multimeter to test each of the switches for continuity. If any of the switches do not have continuity, the switch or switches should be replaced.
Common
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my KitchenAid microwave exhaust fan not working?
How do I test a KitchenAid microwave exhaust fan motor?
Can a microwave door switch cause the exhaust fan to stop working?
What should I check before replacing the KitchenAid microwave control module?
How do I find the correct KitchenAid microwave exhaust fan part?
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