Is your Caloric microwave exhaust fan not working? The problem may be a door switch, exhaust fan motor, thermostat, blocked grille, control module, or micro switch. Start with the door switch, which must signal the control board that the door is closed before the fan control can operate. Test the switch for continuity and replace it if defective. Next, check the exhaust fan motor. The fan blades should turn freely by hand; if the motor has power but will not run, or lacks continuity, replace the motor. A failed thermostat can also prevent the fan from starting, while a clogged or damaged grille can restrict airflow and make the microwave vent not work properly. If the motor and wiring are good but the motor receives no power, the control module may be faulty. Some models use a separate micro switch with the same door-sensing function. Enter your microwave's model number to find the exact replacement part for your Caloric appliance. If testing requires removing the outer cabinet, unplug the microwave first and remember that the high-voltage capacitor can store a lethal charge even after unplugging. It must be properly discharged before interior work, so use a qualified technician if you are not familiar with capacitor discharge procedures.
01 - Caloric 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.