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HomeRepair HelpWhirlpool Microwave RepairWhirlpool Microwave exhaust fan not working Repair
Whirlpool Microwave exhaust fan not working
If your Whirlpool over-the-range microwave exhaust fan is not working, the most likely cause is a defective door switch that fails to tell the control board the door is closed. Test the primary, secondary, or monitor door switch for continuity and replace any switch that fails. Next, check the exhaust fan motor. The fan blades should turn freely by hand; if they do not, replace the motor. If the motor has power but will not run, or lacks continuity, it is defective. A failed thermostat can also keep the fan from turning on, so test it for continuity. If the microwave fan is working but the vent is not pulling air, inspect the grille for grease or other blockage and replace it if damaged. A faulty control module is less common, but it may be responsible if the motor is not receiving power after the wiring is checked. Some Whirlpool models also use a micro switch for the door signal. Enter your model number to find the exact replacement part. If repairs require removing the outer cabinet, unplug the microwave first and use proper capacitor discharge procedures. The high-voltage capacitor can store a lethal charge even when unplugged, so hire a qualified technician if you are not familiar with this work.
01 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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 Whirlpool over-the-range microwave exhaust fan not working?
How do I test the door switch when my microwave fan is not working?
How do I know if the Whirlpool microwave exhaust fan motor is bad?
Could a thermostat, grille, or control module cause the microwave vent fan not to work?
How do I find the correct Whirlpool microwave exhaust fan part?
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