Microwaves have become an important part of every kitchen, because who doesn’t like quick reheating of food? For the most part, microwave ovens are designed to be all-in-one kitchen equipment that can be used for different kitchen tasks.
However, when the microwave shuts off after a few minutes, it can lead to unpleasant activities. So, if your microwave keeps shutting off after two to three minutes as well, then it indicates that your microwave is resetting itself.
There could be several explanations for this, and the solutions if your microwave shuts down after a few seconds, that may include:
How to Fix Microwave Shuts Off After 3 Minutes?
1. Door Switch
The common reason behind the microwave shutting off is the door switching. This is because the majority of technicians have found door switches to be the issue.
For this reason, you have to check the door switch and see if there is any arcing or burning with it. The arcing and burning can be checked by inspecting the physical appearance. For the most part, the door switch might be dark brown or black.
On the contrary, if you cannot identify the physical or virtual issues, you have to check the door switch with the multimeter to look for continuity issues.
If there are signs of burning or zero continuity, you have to change the door switch. Although you can change the door switch yourself in most cases, it is best to hire a technician.
2. Main Control Board
If there are no apparent issues with the door switch, you need to check the main control board. However, before you start tweaking the main control board, don’t forget to plug off the microwave.
To check the main control board, you need to use the main control board because there can be continuity issues. If you feel problems with continuity, you must call the technician to replace the main control board.
3. Wiring
Whenever the microwave starts shutting off after every three minutes, you have to check the wiring. It is because the wiring might be damaged, which would cause electrical connectivity issues.
That being said, the first step is to check the power cable that’s connecting your microwave to the power plug. Make sure that the power switch or plug is not damaged.
Keep in mind that you have to check for internal and external damage. To do so, use a multimeter to check for internal damage because it helps keep an eye on continuity.
When you fix this damage, try using the microwave again. In addition, you must ensure that the wire is accurately connected to the back of the microwave oven and is not loose.
4. Control Panel
If it’s the control panel or touchpad, you need to check it to fix the shutting off issue. To check the control panel or touchpad, you have to press the buttons. If the buttons respond, there is no issue with the control panel.
On the other hand, if any of the buttons aren’t working, the control panel may be damaged. In that case, you’ll have to change or replace the control panel. Also, some people only repair the control panel, but replacement is a long-term solution.
If the control panel is perfect and the microwave is still shutting off, you need to check the transformer. It is because a bad or fused transformer can cause this issue. When a transformer fails, it usually emits a foul odor.
For this purpose, you must replace the transformer, but make sure that you don’t do it yourself because it has an ample electricity supply inside.
That being said, you have to hire an electrician to get it replaced. We suggest that you change the microwave if the transformer is the issue.
5. Cooling Fan
The microwave ovens have an internal cooling fan to keep the magnetron safe from overheating. However, if the cooling fan fails, the magnetron is likely to overheat, resulting in the thermostat tripping.
In addition, it will cause power interruptions and won’t switch on until the microwave cools down (yes, the microwave can cool down in three to five minutes).
For this purpose, we suggest that you fix the cooling fan right away because it will eventually blow the magnetron. The best option is to call the technician because they can help fix the cooling fan or replace it.
6. Defected Transformer
If everything else is working in order, but the microwave keeps turning off, the voltage transformer is most likely faulty.
The transformer generates significant voltage, which charges the magnetron, causing radio waves to be emitted that pass through the save guide before entering the food storage area to steam or cook your food.
When the microwave runs for a brief period before stopping, the transformer may be short-circuiting. When a high-voltage transformer fails, it sometimes emits an unpleasant smell.
If you were successful in obtaining the high voltage transformer, you should leave it alone and seek professional help to resolve the issue. Even when turned off, the transformer retains a high voltage, and you don’t want to tamper with live current.
7. Clogged Vent
The microwave has an air vent to keep it cool. The microwave will not function reliably if this vent becomes clogged with lubricant and dust.
For safety purposes, the microwave will shut down automatically. To avoid this issue, wipe the vent using a brush.
Other reasons why your microwave runs for just a few seconds and then shuts down include a damaged internal fuse, defective electrodes, or defective capacitors. Make sure to look out for them as well.
Lastly, It is highly recommended that you hire a professional to handle your microwave’s troubleshooting and maintenance. Since a professional would be able to do a much better job which is going to be cost-effective and better in the long run as well.