When your Frigidaire microwave starts tripping the breaker, it’s like a mini mystery in your kitchen. Why does it keep turning off the power? Is it a secret code, or is something wrong?
Let’s put on our detective hats and figure out why this happens and how you can fix it to get back to heating up your favorite snacks and meals.
Frigidaire Microwave Tripping Breaker: Common Causes
- Overloaded Circuit: Too many appliances on one circuit can overload it.
- Blown Fuse: Indicates excessive power draw.
- Damaged Door Latch: This affects the interlock switch, causing errors.
- Defective Turntable Motor: Can cause short circuits.
- Faulty Timer: This leads to overheating and stress on the breaker.
- Damaged Capacitor: Failure of this component can trigger the breaker.
Why Does My Frigidaire Microwave Keep Tripping the Breaker?
#1. Overloaded Circuit
Your microwave might trip the breaker if too much is plugged into one circuit. Houses usually have multiple breakers, each controlling different parts.
When your kitchen has the fridge, oven, and microwave on the same circuit, it might be too much for it. If your microwave makes the breaker trip, it’s likely overloading that circuit.
#2. Blown Fuse
Your microwave has a fuse to keep it safe. When this fuse blows, the microwave might draw too much power.
This extra power could trip the breaker to prevent damage. If you have power surges or the microwave draws too much electricity, it can blow the fuse.
- Signs of a blown fuse include:
- Microwave won’t start
- Display not working
- Breaker tripping when microwave used
#3. Damaged Door Latch
A broken door latch might not seem like a big deal, but it is. It can mess with the interlock switch, which helps the microwave work when the door is closed.
If the latch is broken, this switch might send the wrong signals. The breaker trips to stop any damage from this error.
- Common symptoms of a damaged door latch include:
- The door not closing properly
- Microwave starting with the door open
- Breaker tripping upon starting the microwave
#4. Defective Turntable Motor
Your microwave’s turntable motor might get damaged by liquids. Sometimes food spills and liquid gets into the motor.
This can cause short circuits. If the motor’s wires get burned by too much electricity, they fail, causing the breaker to trip when you start the microwave.
- Problems with a defective turntable motor:
- The turntable doesn’t spin.
- You hear unusual noises.
- The microwave stops working, tripping the breaker.
#5. Faulty Timer
If the timer on your microwave isn’t working right, your food might cook too long. You expect the microwave to automatically shut off, but if it doesn’t, it can overheat.
Overheating adds stress to the breaker and can cause the fuse to blow, leading to the breaker tripping.
- Issues related to a faulty timer:
- Overcooked food
- The microwave doesn’t turn off automatically
- Excessive heat causes the breaker to trip
#6. Damaged Capacitor
The capacitor in your microwave is important. It holds an extra electric charge to keep your microwave safe. If the capacitor is damaged, its protective role fails.
Then, the fuse takes the hit, but it’s not as tough and may blow quickly. This causes your breaker to trip to protect the microwave from damage.
- Telltale signs of a damaged capacitor:
- Microwave shuts off mid-use.
- You notice a burning smell.
- The breaker trips when the microwave is in use.
How Do You Fix A Microwave That Keeps Tripping?
Your microwave can trip the circuit breaker for various reasons. To fix this, begin by inspecting the fuse. A damaged fuse needs replacing, and you can find a new one here.
The capacitor, an essential component, might be the culprit too. If you’re unsure how to locate or check it, it’s a job for an electrician. If it’s indeed faulty, go ahead and get it replaced.
Turn on your microwave to see if the turntable spins. If it stays still, the motor may have failed. Replacing the motor is your next step.
Also, don’t overlook the microwave’s timer. If your microwave still malfunctions after checking these, seek professional help or a repair service.
| If Tripping Occurs | Action to Take |
|---|---|
| High-voltage capacitor issues | Replace the fuse |
| The turntable does not rotate | Have an electrician replace it |
| A timer is causing issues | Replace the turntable motor |
| Timer is causing issues | Inspect and repair with a professional |
| Wiring or dedicated circuit issues | An electrician should diagnose and create a dedicated line |
To prevent breaker trips, ensure your appliance has its own circuit and check cables and components regularly.
Use a multimeter for continuity tests. If you notice noise or sparks, disconnect the appliance and seek professional help for safe and accurate troubleshooting.
