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HomeRepair HelpHotpoint Microwave RepairHotpoint Microwave exhaust fan not working Repair
Hotpoint Microwave exhaust fan not working
When a Hotpoint microwave exhaust fan is not working, start with the door switch, which must signal the control board that the door is closed before the fan control can operate. Test each door switch, including the primary, secondary, or monitor switch, for continuity and replace any switch that fails. Next, inspect the exhaust fan motor. Make sure the fan blades turn freely by hand, then check the motor for incoming power and continuity. If the motor has power but will not run, or lacks continuity, replace it. A defective thermostat is another likely cause because it monitors air temperature and activates the fan when needed. Also check the grille for grease or other obstructions that could make the microwave vent not pulling air, and replace a damaged grille. If the motor is not receiving power, the control module or wiring may be faulty, although the control module is less common. A defective micro switch can cause the same symptom as a door switch. Enter your Hotpoint microwave model number to find the exact replacement part. Any repair requiring removal of the outer cabinet must be handled carefully because the high-voltage capacitor can store a lethal charge after unplugging. Proper capacitor discharge is required, and unfamiliar users should hire a qualified technician.
01 - Hotpoint 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 - Hotpoint 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 - Hotpoint 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 - Hotpoint 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 - Hotpoint 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 - Hotpoint 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 Hotpoint microwave exhaust fan not working?
How do I test the exhaust fan motor and thermostat in a Hotpoint over-the-range microwave?
Can a door switch cause the microwave fan not to work?
What should I check before replacing the Hotpoint microwave control module?
How do I find the correct Hotpoint microwave exhaust fan part?
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