Amana Microwave Repair

Amana introduced the countertop microwave to American kitchens with the Radarange in the 1960s, and today it sells over-the-range and countertop models built through Whirlpool. Over-the-range units add an exhaust fan and cooktop light. The current models are plain, practical units whose insides follow the standard pattern of magnetron, high-voltage transformer, capacitor, diode and a stack of door interlock switches.

Door switches are a common failure; when one wears out, the microwave may not start or may blow its fuse. High-voltage faults in the magnetron, diode or capacitor let the microwave run without heating. Turntable motors stall, leaving food unevenly heated. Over-the-range vent fan motors wear out, and fan thermostats can fail. Keypads may stop responding from age, steam or grease. Countertop Amana models are inexpensive, so the repair line arrives early. Over-the-range models also suffer grease buildup on the fan and filters.

Look at the door hooks and latch for cracks or wear, because a sagging door is hard on the interlock switches. If the microwave stopped working after an outage, turn off its circuit for a minute and restore it. Clean the grease filters on an over-the-range unit regularly. Do not open the microwave cabinet yourself; the high-voltage capacitor can hold a dangerous charge even after unplugging. If you see sparks, stop using it.

Our diagnosis safely discharges the high-voltage circuit and tests the magnetron, diode, capacitor, transformer, door switches, turntable motor and controls. On an over-the-range Amana we also check the vent fan, its thermostat and the light circuit. Some of those repairs require lifting the microwave off its wall plate, which takes two people. Commercial Amana microwaves found in some offices and small restaurants are a different product line, and we will tell you up front if one falls outside what we can service.

On an Amana microwave, the switches, fan and turntable motor are the repairs that clearly pay off. A failed magnetron or control on a basic Amana countertop microwave often costs more than a new one, so replacement is usually the better choice there. Over-the-range models more often justify repair, and we will tell you honestly.