Microwave replacements are relatively affordable compared to other appliances. Use this guide to learn how much they cost based on factors like type and labor.
Why Is My Microwave Buzzing? 5 Causes and Solutions
Your appliance could be cooking up trouble
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A loud buzzing noise in your microwave when it's heating points to a faulty magnetron, which generates the radiation that heats your food.
Microwave repair costs range from $50 to $500, with average costs around $175, so addressing buzzing early helps you avoid bigger problems.
Your microwave humming when it's off signals a dangerous electrical issue that needs immediate attention by shutting the power and calling an electrician.
Hiring a local small appliance repair professional provides trusted help with magnetron replacements and fan repairs, keeping your kitchen running smoothly.
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Your microwave is probably one of the most frequently used appliances in your kitchen, so if you suddenly find yourself asking, “why is my microwave buzzing,” you may need to call a professional to solve the issue. Before you do, learn about what can cause buzzing in a microwave and how to diagnose the issue.
1. Faulty Magnetron
The most common reason for a buzzing microwave is a faulty magnetron, which is the internal component that generates microwave radiation to heat your food. If you hear a high-pitched buzzing noise only when the microwave is on and heating, this is the most likely underlying cause.
The Solution
You’ll need to call in a small appliance repair company near you to replace the magnetron. It’s technically possible to DIY the replacement, but it can be dangerous, especially if your microwave is hardwired. Even if it isn’t, the repair is easy to mess up, which could cause additional appliance damage.
2. Worn-Out Fan
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Your microwave uses a fan to cool the internal components during operation. If the fan wears out or malfunctions from dust buildup or constant use, you may hear a choppy buzzing noise during operation.
The Solution
You can first clean the fan blades to see if that solves the issue. Sometimes, dust accumulates unevenly on them, which can cause imbalance issues that lead to buzzing. If that doesn’t work, call a repair tech to replace the fan.
3. Loose Fasteners
If a screw comes loose in the back of your microwave or somewhere on one of the internal components, it will buzz during operation as the appliance vibrates. This will usually sound like a loud, mechanical buzzing rather than an electrical noise. This could be your problem if you or a repair tech recently removed the backing to assess another issue.
The Solution
If you’re able to find the screw that’s loose, shut the power to the appliance, tighten the screw, and turn the power back on before testing it.
4. Diode Issue
The diode in your microwave is responsible for converting AC power from your home’s electrical system to DC power, which the magnetron uses to generate electromagnetic waves. A faulty diode can create a low, muffled buzzing noise during operation. If you notice that kind of buzzing coupled with your food not heating, this could be the issue.
The Solution
You’ll need to have a microwave repair specialist come to replace the diode.
5. Electrical Malfunction
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The most dangerous issue that could cause your microwave to buzz is an electrical malfunction, which could stem from damaged internal components, damaged wires behind your walls, or a hidden leak. If you hear buzzing when your microwave is not heating, it could be arcing, which means you have an electrical problem.
The Solution
Immediately shut the power to your microwave using your breaker box and call an electrician in. Arcing could lead to a house fire, so this is considered an emergency situation. Have your electrician confirm if there’s a problem behind your walls. If there isn’t, replace your microwave, as it probably has an internal electrical issue.
When to Call a Pro
You can try searching for loose fasteners and cleaning the blades on the cooling fan to try to fix the buzzing issue, but if that doesn’t work, you should call in an appliance repair specialist. All of the other possible underlying issues require replacing or repairing internal components, and it’s best to leave the work to an experienced pro.
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Small appliance repairs reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
5.0★ avg. • 2 total reviews
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Positive experience. As previously stated, the replacement/repair could not be completed (no fault of the plumbing tech) b/c misinformation was rec?d by property management maintenance. Thanks to the plumbing tech for your efforts. Appreciate you!
The Waterworks - Brent C.
Carpet repair done well. Scheduling was easy. Showed up on time.
BR Flooring Installation - Mike Z.
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Eco Plumbers, Electricians, and HVAC Technicians - Austin Y.
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U.S.A. Dryer Vent, LLC - Micki B.
Everything from initial contact to completion was absolutely top notch. We contacted the business during off hours to leave a message, and the owner still reached out to feel out the issue within minutes. We were scheduled and repaired within 48 hours. I cannot say enough about the...
Supreme brick & chimney - Donald L.
Ace Fireplace Services came to the rescue for my chimney repair. They were quick to pinpoint the issue and worked their magic to fix it. My chimney is now in excellent shape, and I'm a satisfied customer.
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On Sunday 2/26 I requested quotes via Angi from 4 refrigerator repair businesses. Northwest Appliance responded to me Monday morning (2/27) and my refrigerator was repaired by noon the same day. Great communication, they did everything they said they would. The technician had the parts on...
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