Today’s fast-paced lifestyle often leaves individuals with no time to cook meals. Thankfully, microwaves help users save time by heating up leftovers or frozen meals in minutes. From full dinners, such as frozen pizzas and lasagnas to snacks, such as popcorn, microwaves provide users with quick and nourishing meal options.
Unfortunately, a malfunctioning microwave can create a great deal of inconvenience. It can also lead to rising food costs, as individuals are forced to order takeout.
Luckily, microwave repair technicians are increasingly available in all major cities. In addition to microwaves, appliance repair technicians also repair stovetops, ovens, ranges, refrigerators, washers, dryers, trash compactors, and dishwashers.
Microwave Types
Many appliance repair stores can fix all sorts of microwaves, no matter the type or brand. Examples include countertop, above the range, under cabinet or counter, drawer style, built-in, grill, and convection microwaves.
Specifically, built-in microwaves are seamlessly blended with cabinetry, while drawer style microwaves are installed below a wall oven or countertop. Above the range microwaves combine a microwave with a range hood to save space, and countertop microwaves come in variety of sizes and power wattages.
Common Microwave Problems
Common problems with microwaves:
- The microwave does not produce heat.
- The microwave starts, but then stops suddenly.
- The microwave plate does not spin, or no longer makes full rotations.
- The microwave buttons have stopped functioning.
- The microwave is sparking.
- The microwave exhaust fan is not working.
- The user is unable to adjust power levels.
- The microwave door will not open.
Microwave Repair Cost
The cost of microwave repair varies, depending on the severity of the issue, cost of replacement parts, and the experience level and geographical location of the technician.
Specifically, high-end brand name microwaves will be more expensive to repair than inexpensive ones. For example, Viking and Thermador brand microwaves will range from $200 to $600 USD for repairs. In comparison, LG, GE, Frigidaire, and Hotpoint range about $125 USD. For older models, parts may be more difficult to track down, increasing costs as well.
Many technicians charge an hourly rate, with $50 to $70 USD per hour as the standard. For clients who live in rural areas outside of city centres, the rate may be slightly higher. However, there may also be a travel surcharge of $25 to $50 USD, and a mileage fee of approximately 58 cents per mile.
Expect repairs to take 2 to 3 hours.
In addition, many technicians also charge for the cost of parts. Cables, panels, and wires will often cost approximately $50 USD, while a new touchpad will be approximately $10 to $20 USD. A fuse, roller guide, or diode is $75 USD, while replacing a motor or fan on a built- in microwave begins at $250 USD.
For problems with sparks, customers should expect to pay approximately $5 to $20 to rack support replacement, $10 to $15 USD for wave-guide cover replacement, and $75 to $100 USD for diode replacement.
For problems with banging or humming, customers should expect to pay $20 to $30 USD for roller guide replacement, $20 to $50 USD for drive coupler replacement, $100 to $150 USD for magnetron replacement, and $150 to $200 USD for cooling fan replacement.
For motor problems, customers should expect to pay approximately $20 to $50 USD for touch pad replacement, $50 USD for door switch replacement, $100 to $150 USD for door switch replacement, $100 to $150 USD for transformer replacement, and $150 to $200 USD for fan motor replacement.
For button failure, , customers should expect to pay approximately $20 to $50 USD for touch pad replacement, $60 to $100 USD for control panel replacement, and $200 USD for control board replacement.
For plate problems, customers should expect to pay approximately $20 to $60 USD for rotating motor replacement.
For heat problems, customers should expect to pay $100 to $150 USD for magnetron replacement.
Finally, for microwaves that continue to run, while the door is open, customers can expect to pay $100 USD for an interlocking switch replacement and $200 USD for fan replacement.
An average cost of repair is expected to be range between $125 to $250 USD, with an average cost of $170 USD.
The cost is often less by taking one’s microwave directly to a repair centre, as opposed to having a technician visit one’s home.
Choosing a Microwave Repair Technician
Choosing a microwave technician does not have to be a difficult process. Reviewing technician websites and customer reviews, as well as visiting review websites, such as Yelp and the Better Business Bureau, can be very helpful.
In addition, word of mouth recommendations from friends, family, and coworkers are invaluable.
Finding a reputable microwave repair technician is now easier and more affordable than than ever. Do not hesitate to contact one today.
