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HomeRepair HelpUniversal Microwave RepairUniversal Microwave exhaust fan not working Repair
Universal Microwave exhaust fan not working
When your Universal microwave exhaust fan is not working, start with the door switch, which signals the control board that the door is closed and allows the fan control to operate. Test the door switch for continuity and replace it if it fails. 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 power and continuity. A defective thermostat can also prevent the microwave fan from turning on, so test it for continuity and replace it if it is open. Inspect the grille for clogs or damage that could keep the microwave vent from pulling air. If the motor is not receiving power, the control module may be faulty, although it is less common. A defective micro switch can cause the same door-signal problem as the primary door switch. These checks address common causes of a microwave exhaust fan not working, microwave fan not working, or microwave vent not working. Enter your model number to find the exact replacement part for your Universal microwave. Any repair requiring removal of the outer cabinet must be handled carefully because the high-voltage capacitor can store a lethal charge after unplugging and must be properly discharged. Use a qualified technician if you are unfamiliar with capacitor discharge procedures.
01 - Universal 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 - Universal 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 - Universal 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 - Universal 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 - Universal 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 - Universal 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 microwave exhaust fan not working?
How do I test a microwave exhaust fan motor?
Can a microwave door switch cause the vent fan not to work?
What else should I check if my microwave vent is not pulling air?
How do I find the correct Universal microwave exhaust fan part?
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