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HomeRepair HelpKenmore Microwave RepairKenmore Microwave exhaust fan not working Repair
Kenmore Microwave exhaust fan not working
If your Kenmore over-the-range microwave exhaust fan is not working, a defective door switch is the most likely cause. The door switch may not signal the control module that the door is closed, preventing the exhaust fan button from working. Test each door switch, including the primary, secondary, or monitor switch, for continuity with a multimeter and replace any switch that fails. Next, inspect the exhaust fan motor. The fan 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 faulty thermostat can also keep the vent fan from turning on, so test it for continuity. Check the grille for grease or other obstructions, and replace it if damaged. If the motor is not receiving power, the control module or wiring may be defective, although the control module is less commonly the cause. A faulty micro switch can produce the same symptom as a door switch problem. Before opening the cabinet, unplug the microwave and remember that the high-voltage capacitor can store a lethal charge even when unplugged. Proper capacitor discharge is required before interior work, and a qualified technician should handle repairs if you are unfamiliar with the procedure. Enter your model number to find the exact Kenmore replacement part for your microwave.
01 - Kenmore 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 - Kenmore 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 - Kenmore 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.
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04 - Kenmore 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 - Kenmore 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 - Kenmore 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 Kenmore microwave exhaust fan not working?
Can a door switch cause the Kenmore microwave fan to stop working?
How do I test the thermostat and exhaust fan motor on a Kenmore microwave?
How do I find the correct Kenmore microwave exhaust fan part?
Is it safe to use a Kenmore microwave when the exhaust fan is not working?
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