If your Samsung over-the-range microwave exhaust fan is not working, start with the door switch, which may fail to signal the control board that the door is closed and prevent the fan button from operating. Test the door switch for continuity and replace it if defective. Next, check the exhaust fan motor. The blades should turn freely by hand; if they do not, replace the motor. If they turn freely, test the motor for incoming voltage and continuity. A defective thermostat can also keep the fan from turning on, so test it for continuity. Inspect the grille for clogs or damage, since restricted airflow can make the vent seem ineffective or leave the microwave vent not pulling air. If the motor is not receiving power, the control module may be faulty, although it is less common. Also test the micro switch, which works with the door circuit. Before opening the outer cabinet, unplug the microwave and note that its high-voltage capacitor can store a lethal charge even after unplugging. Proper capacitor discharge is required before interior work, and a qualified technician should handle this repair if you are not familiar with the procedure. Enter your model number to find the exact Samsung replacement part for your microwave.
01 - Samsung 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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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.