microwave trips breaker after 2 minutes

Microwave Tripping Circuit Breaker? How to Fix It

Your microwave is one of the most energy-hungry appliances in your home. To be able to operate correctly your microwave requires a lot of electricity which can sometimes make it trip the circuit breaker that supplies power to it. It could also be that your microwave has become faulty or an electrical component within your microwave has become defective and will need to be replaced.

If your microwave is tripping the circuit breaker this guide will give you step-by-step instructions for how to fix it. Simply start from the top and work your way down our guide.

Step 1 – Check the circuit breaker

The best place to start is to inspect the circuit breaker to see if it’s becoming overloaded when you use your microwave. If this is the case the circuit breaker may need to be repaired or replaced.

Here’s how to check the circuit breaker:

Locate your household breaker box.
Check if your microwave is powered by a dedicated breaker (most likely labeled ‘’microwave”) or if it is powered by a shared breaker (most likely labeled “kitchen”).
If your microwave is powered by a dedicated circuit breaker, this means it’s probably not the circuit breaker that is causing the problem. However, it’s a good idea to test the circuit breaker to ensure it is working correctly. If the circuit breaker is fine, move on to the next step.
If your microwave isn’t powered by a dedicated circuit breaker it’s recommended to get an electrician to change your circuit breakers so that it is. This will ensure your circuit breaker has the required voltage to power your microwave.
Once an electrician has created a dedicated circuit breaker for your microwave, test if the problem has been solved. If not, you’ll need to proceed to the next step in this guide.

Step 2 – Make sure the microwave isn’t at fault

If your microwave has a dedicated circuit breaker, the next step in our guide for how to fix a microwave tripping the circuit breaker is to rule out the problem being caused by a fault with the microwave itself.

Here’s how to make sure your microwave isn’t faulty:

Start by plugging your microwave into a high amp circuit that you know has a dedicated circuit. If using your microwave makes the breaker trip in a different power outlet this means your microwave is probably faulty and will need to be repaired. If this is the case, proceed to step 3.
If the microwave works in an alternative power outlet, then the microwave’s usual power socket and/or circuit breaker is the likely cause of the problem so will need to be inspected by a technician if it hasn’t been already (see Step 1, point 4).

Step 3 – Inspect the door safety latch

Within your door safety latch are several switches that are there to ensure the door is closed and the microwave can operate safely. If any of the switches become defective or if the latch hooks become broken your microwave may trip the circuit breaker.

Here’s how to inspect the door safety latch:

First, check that the latch hooks are not broken. If you find they are damaged, replace the hooks or the entire latch unit.
If the hooks are fine, disconnect your microwave from the power source and locate the door latch.
Once located, find the microswitches on the door latch and disconnect them. Once disconnected, test all the switches with a multimeter for continuity, once with the door open and once with the door closed.
If any of the switches are faulty, they will need to be replaced. If fine, proceed to the next step.

Step 4 – Inspect the turntable motor

Your microwave has a turntable motor that powers the turntable so your microwave can turn around. Sometimes liquid can leak down into the turntable motor causing the motor to become defective which in turn causes the circuit to trip. The best way to avoid this happening is to wipe your microwave out after every use and if any spills occur clean them up quickly.

Here’s how to inspect the turntable motor:

Unplug your microwave from the power socket.
Discharge the capacitor. If you don’t know how to do this, it’s recommended that you stop and call a technician as this can be a very dangerous task given the risk of electrical shocks.
Locate the turntable motor and disconnect the connectors.
Test the motor with a multimeter to ensure it has continuity.
If the motor is defective, replace it. If fine, proceed to the next step.
If you do install a new turntable motor, the next step is to turn your microwave back on and test if this has stopped the circuit breaker from tripping. If the microwave still trips the circuit breaker, proceed to the next step.

Step 5 – Inspect the capacitor

The capacitor stores lots of energy and when you turn your microwave on it helps to ensure the microwave can operate correctly. If the capacitor becomes defective your microwave might make a loud noise when it’s operating and then trip the circuit breaker. Please note that inspecting a capacitor is a very dangerous task and shouldn’t be attempted by anyone that isn’t qualified and/or experienced to do so. This is because they store lots of voltage which means there is a significant risk of electrical shock if they aren’t handled properly.

Here’s how to inspect the capacitor:

Switch the power off to your microwave.
Locate the capacitor.
Discharge the electricity from the capacitor
Disconnect the connectors from the capacitor.
Test the capacitor with a multimeter.
If faulty, the capacitor will need to be replaced or you may decide the better option is to purchase a new microwave.
If you do replace the capacitor, turn your microwave back on when it has been installed and test if the microwave still trips the circuit breaker. If not, your microwave has been fixed.

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Why Your Microwave Keeps Tripping The Kitchen Circuit Breaker

You place the plate of last night’s leftovers in the microwave, close the door, and set the timer for two minutes. Thirty seconds in, half the power to the kitchen goes out. You check your home’s circuit box and see a kitchen circuit breaker has tripped. You reset the breaker, but when you turn the microwave back on, the same circuit breaker trips. Why does the microwave keep tripping the kitchen circuit breaker? It’s likely one of the components inside the microwave has shorted. In this article, Repair Clinic will explain why a microwave component short can trip a circuit breaker and how you can determine which part is causing the problem.

How a microwave component short can trip a circuit breaker

A microwave is a high-voltage appliance which means it draws a lot of power from your home’s electrical system. If you try to use other electric-powered kitchen items such as a food processor or mixer on the same circuit as the microwave when the appliance is running, you may draw too much power and trip the circuit breaker. Even when you aren’t using other small appliances on the same circuit as the microwave, a short in one of the microwave’s components will tax the electrical system enough to overload the circuit.

Door switches are the most likely to short

Door switches are the most likely components to short and the easiest to test. However, the microwave’s high voltage system has a number of parts that can short and readily trip a circuit breaker. These include the unit’s capacitor, transformer, and magnetron. Most of these parts can be tested for a short, but you should always practice safety first before you attempt to access the components.

Always practice safety first when testing microwave components

Depending on the microwave model, you can usually access the unit’s door switches by simply uninstalling the control panel. The same is true of many of the microwave’s high-voltage components. However, you will often need to remove the appliance’s entire shroud or cover to access internal parts and this may require fully uninstalling the microwave if it’s installed above a range and acts as a venting system for the range’s cooktop. Regardless of the microwave model, safety should always come first.

Because of the high voltage and high current used by microwave ovens, the appliance poses a substantial risk for injury or death if precautions are not taken. You should always unplug the microwave before you attempt any disassembly. However, the microwave capacitor has the ability to deliver a dangerous shock and for this reason, we recommend that only experienced professionals access and replace internal components.

Discharging the capacitor

Any time any portion of the microwave is disassembled, you should immediately make sure the capacitor is fully discharged, even if you suspect the component has lost its ability to hold an electrical charge. As a safety precaution, most high-voltage capacitors used in recent microwave models have a bleeder resistor in them that should automatically discharge the capacitor after the voltage has been discontinued. That’s a welcome feature, but it’s still recommended you confirm this by attempting to discharge the capacitor manually. How can you do this? Simply place a screwdriver blade or needle-nose pliers across each set of capacitor terminals. The handle of the screwdriver or pliers should be insulated, and you should avoid touching the metal portion of the tool when the tool is in contact with the terminals.

Which microwave parts should be tested for a short?

Once you’ve made sure the capacitor has been discharged, you can begin inspecting specific components for a short.

First, determine if a door switch has shorted

If a microwave keeps tripping a circuit breaker, you should first determine if a door switch has shorted. Most microwaves have three or four door switches that allow the microwave to start or heat once the door is closed. The switches are secured in a door switch holder mounted to the inside of the unit’s front panel. You can access the holder by uninstalling the control panel and you can use a multimeter to test each switch for a short. Watch this microwave two-terminal switch testing video and this microwave three-terminal switch testing video to find out how to test these switches for both proper continuity and for shorts.

Test the capacitor for a short

A standard ohm meter can also be used to determine if the capacitor has shorted. Place one meter lead on a terminal and the other lead against the capacitor’s casing, then move the first lead to the other terminal, keeping the second on the casing. Neither terminal should display electrical continuity. If the meter display does indicate electrical continuity, you’ll know the capacitor has shorted and will need to be replaced.

What happens when a high-voltage transformer shorts?

If the door switches and capacitor are functioning normally, your next step is to inspect the microwave’s high-voltage transformer and magnetron for a short. When a high-voltage transformer shorts it will usually arc. This can result in visible burn damage as well as a noticeable burning smell. A shorted magnetron, however, will not normally appear damaged, but you can use a multimeter to determine if a short is present.

How to test a microwave magnetron for a short

The hard part is accessing the magnetron for testing; the easy part is testing the component for a short. Here’s how you do it:

With the microwave’s power cord unplugged and the capacitor fully discharged, disconnect the wires from the magnetron’s terminals.
Rotate the multimeter’s range selection dial to the lowest setting for ohms of resistance.
Contact the meter leads to the magnetron terminals to confirm there is electrical continuity.
Now move one of the meter leads to the magnetron’s casing, keeping the second lead on a terminal.
Confirm the meter display no longer shows electrical continuity is present.
Move the second lead to the other terminal, keeping the first lead on the casing.
Observe the meter display. If either terminal shows electrical continuity between the terminal and the casing, the magnetron has shorted and will need to be replaced with a new one.

Repair Clinic stocks genuine OEM microwave parts

Once you discover a shorted part, you need a trusted supplier who can provide you with the right original equipment manufacturer (OEM) replacement part. Generic replacement parts are not a good fit for your microwave since manufacturers design parts properly calibrated and tested to work with all the other components in the unit. This is why Repair Clinic stocks genuine OEM parts to ensure the microwave can be fixed right. To find all of the compatible OEM parts for your microwave, enter the full model number of the unit in the Repair Clinic website search bar . From there, you can use the “Part Category” navigation filter (“Capacitor”, “Diode, Magnetron & Resistor”) followed by the “Part Title” filter (“High Voltage Capacitor”, “Magnetron”) to locate the exact part you need to fix your GE, Samsung, Whirlpool, LG, Kenmore, Frigidaire, or Panasonic microwave.

Let Repair Clinic guide you through the repair process

Whether you need to replace a door switch, capacitor, or any other microwave component, let Repair Clinic guide you through the repair process with free “how to” videos, schematics, and step-by-step guides. Visit the “Videos & Articles” section of the Repair Clinic website to explore repair help content like how to replace a magnetron on a Frigidaire Countertop Microwave (Model FPMO227NUFA) or the right way to install a new high voltage capacitor in a Whirlpool Microwave Oven/Hood Combo (Model WMH73521CS6). By doing it yourself, you can always save money with help from your repair partner – Repair Clinic.

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Why Does My Microwave Keep Tripping the Breaker?

Microwaves are a common household appliance, used daily for heating and cooking food. However, they can cause some electrical issues, one of which is frequently tripping the circuit breaker. This can be quite frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of preparing a meal. But why does this happen, and what can you do about it? This comprehensive guide will provide an in-depth explanation, along with possible solutions.

Your microwave may be tripping the breaker due to several reasons, including an overloaded circuit, a defect within the microwave itself, voltage fluctuations, a wet turntable motor, a blown interference suppressor, a faulty door safety latch, or a damaged magnetron. To resolve this issue, ensure your microwave is connected to a dedicated circuit. If the problem persists, consult with a professional electrician or appliance repair technician.

Understanding Circuit Breakers and Microwaves

Circuit breakers are safety devices designed to protect your home’s electrical circuit system from damage caused by an overload or short circuit. When the electrical current exceeds the breaker’s capacity, it automatically trips or shuts off to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards.

Microwaves, on the other hand, are high-energy appliances. They typically draw between 12 and 15 amps of power, depending on the make and model. This makes them one of the most power-consuming appliances in your home.

Common Causes of a Microwave Tripping the Breaker

Overloaded circuit.

One of the most common reasons for a microwave tripping the circuit breaker is an overloaded circuit. This happens when too many appliances are connected to the same circuit as the microwave, exceeding the circuit’s total amp capacity.

Defective Microwave

If your microwave is on a dedicated circuit and still trips the breaker, it might be due to a defect within the microwave itself. This could be a faulty capacitor, a malfunctioning transformer, or damaged internal circuitry.

Electrical Supply Problem

Voltage fluctuations or wiring problems can also cause the breaker to trip. If the power supply to the appliance is inconsistent or if there are any loose connections, the circuit breaker may trip to prevent damage.

Wet Turntable Motor

A leak inside the microwave can cause liquid to reach the turntable motor. When this happens, the motor may become defective, causing the breaker to trip.

Blown Interference Suppressor

The interference suppressor in a microwave prevents electrical interference from disrupting other electronic devices in your home. If this component blows, it can cause the microwave to trip the breaker on startup.

Faulty Door Safety Latch

The door safety latch is a crucial safety feature in microwaves. If it’s malfunctioning, it can cause the microwave to trip the breaker.

Damaged Magnetron

The magnetron is the component that produces the microwaves that cook your food. If it’s faulty, it can also cause the breaker to trip.

Solutions and When to Call a Professional

If your microwave keeps tripping the breaker, the first step is to ensure it’s connected to a dedicated circuit. If the issue persists, consider consulting a professional electrician or appliance repair technician. They can help identify the specific cause and recommend the appropriate solution. This can involve replacing faulty components, repairing any electrical supply issues, or even installing a dedicated circuit for the microwave.

In conclusion, a microwave that frequently trips the breaker is a sign of an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any problems can help ensure that your microwave operates efficiently and safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a dedicated circuit.

A dedicated circuit is a circuit that is set aside for a specific purpose, with its own circuit breaker in your electrical box. It is intended for use with a single appliance only, ensuring it has the necessary power and reducing the risk of overloading.

How can I tell if my microwave is on a dedicated circuit?

You can determine if your microwave is on a dedicated circuit by checking your electrical panel. The microwave should have its own labeled circuit breaker. If it shares a breaker with other appliances, it is not on a dedicated circuit.

Can I install a dedicated circuit myself?

Installing a dedicated circuit involves working with your home’s electrical system, which can be dangerous if not done correctly. It’s recommended to hire a professional electrician for this task.

What do I do if my microwave keeps tripping the breaker even after ensuring it’s on a dedicated circuit?

If your microwave continues to trip the breaker despite being on a dedicated circuit, there might be a problem with the microwave itself or with your home’s electrical system. It’s best to consult a professional electrician or an appliance repair technician to diagnose and fix the issue.

How often should I conduct maintenance on my microwave?

It’s good practice to clean your microwave regularly to prevent food debris and spills from causing problems. As for professional maintenance, it’s advisable to have your microwave checked every couple of years or sooner if you notice any issues.

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How to Fix Microwave Tripping Circuit Breaker

Is your microwave repeatedly tripping the circuit breaker in your home? This can be incredibly frustrating, particularly after a long day when you just want to reheat some leftovers for an easy dinner! There are a few different things that may cause your microwave to trip the circuit breaker, and some of them are relatively easy to fix. Read on to find out what to do!

Overloaded Circuit

An overloaded circuit can happen when a circuit has more electricity flowing through it than it can safely handle. This leads to the circuit breaker tripping to avoid blowing a fuse. The most common cause of this is having too many appliances running on the same circuit, but it can also be caused by a single device that uses too much power for the circuit to handle.

To check if this is the issue with your microwave, have a look at how many appliances are plugged into the power outlet. Ideally, your microwave should be the only appliance plugged into the outlet, as microwaves tend to be high-use appliances. In some cases, multiple outlets may be on the same circuit.

Identify which outlets correspond to the circuit that the microwave is on. You can test this when the microwave trips the circuit breaker by checking whether any other outlets are not working.
Identify if any of the appliances on the circuit are high-consuming appliances. These tend to be appliances that use heat.
Move any high-consuming appliances to different power circuits.
If this isn’t possible, make sure that when you’re using the microwave, all the other appliances are turned off.
If you’re having a continuous issue, consider getting a qualified electrician to upgrade your circuit or put in a dedicated circuit just for the microwave.

Faulty Wiring

If the wiring in your house is faulty, it can lead to circuit breakers tripping even when they’re using a normal amount of electricity. Faulty wiring can mean damaged or deteriorated wiring, loose connections, or corroded screws. If your microwave is constantly tripping the circuit breaker—even when it seems to be functioning normally otherwise—and if you’ve determined the outlet isn’t overloaded, the wiring could be at fault.

Take a close look at the outlet. If there is a fault, the outlet may look scorched or discolored, and there may be a burning smell.
Check if the circuit breaker immediately trips again after being reset. This could mean a short on the circuit.
Try a different appliance. If it trips again, it’s likely an issue with the circuit, not the microwave itself.
In a lot of jurisdictions, you need to have a permit or be a qualified electrician to complete electrical work, so it’s recommended that you talk to a professional about getting your circuit fixed.

Microwave Malfunction

If the microwave itself is malfunctioning, this can cause it to draw too much power and trip the circuit breaker. This means that something within the microwave is faulty, causing an overload or short on the circuit.

This issue is more prevalent with older microwaves, as they tend to draw more power when internal components start to wear out. So if your microwave is getting on in years, it could be the cause of the tripping.

To diagnose this:

Firstly, test your microwave in a different outlet, ensuring it is not on the same circuit as the initial outlet. If it trips that circuit, it’s likely that the microwave is the culprit.
Next, test a different appliance in the microwave’s initial circuit, to ensure that the circuit is functioning correctly. If it works as expected, you’ve determined that only the microwave is at fault, not the outlet.

Once you’ve determined the microwave is at fault, you have two options—you can call in a professional technician, or you can get a new microwave. As this fault is more likely to happen in an older microwave anyway, in nearly all cases it will be more cost-effective to purchase a new one, especially as microwaves are relatively cheap compared to other appliances.

Note that the average lifespan for a microwave is 7-8 years, so if yours is older than this it might be time to bite the bullet and buy a new one!

Ground Fault

A ground fault happens when the current flowing within an appliance (in this case, a microwave) goes off course and makes contact with the grounded part of the appliance. This can be very dangerous and lead to the risk of an electric shock if you touch the device. Your home’s electrical system will contain a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) and trip the circuit as soon as it detects this.

If your microwave has a ground fault, you might find that it behaves erratically, sometimes working and sometimes not. You may find that it sometimes won’t turn on at all.

To fix this issue:

Plug the microwave into another outlet to see if the same thing happens. If it does, a ground fault could be the culprit.
One source of grounding can be a damaged power cord. Check your power cord for any wear and tear or exposed wires. If you notice any, immediately unplug the microwave from the power.
If the power cord is damaged, purchase a replacement cord and install it before trying the microwave again. If the cord was the issue, your microwave will now work properly without tripping the circuit breaker.
If you’ve had recent spills or leaks around your microwave, the moisture could be causing the ground fault. Unplug the microwave, place it somewhere warm and dry, and leave it there for a few days until you’re certain it is totally dry, then see if the fault is fixed.
If the fault is still happening, your microwave likely has damaged internal components. As stated above, you have the choice of either calling in a technician to help you diagnose the issue, or replacing the microwave. Use the age of your microwave to help you decide—remember, if it’s seven years old or more, it’s best to just replace it.

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Why Does My Microwave Keep Tripping the Circuit Breaker?

Common electrical questions answered by a local Indianapolis electrician.

It’s the end of a long day. You’re exhausted. Your kids are exhausted. And of course, everyone’s hungry. Luckily, you remember those leftovers in the fridge from yesterday. You just need to put them in the microwave for a few minutes. Annnd… the microwave trips the ciruit breaker.

One question we hear a lot is, “Why is my microwave tripping the circuit breaker?” The answer: The circuit is becoming overloaded.

Microwaves are a common culprit for overloaded electrical circuits , which can be both frustrating and concerning for homeowners. Simply put, the microwave puts out more amps to operate than the electrical circuit is designed to handle. Electrical circuits are rated to handle certain amounts of amps, and the microwave is exceeding that amount, causing the circuit breaker to trip.

Tripped circuit breakers are common in households, but when it keeps happening, it’s time to get to the root of the problem and find a solution. So, what is causing the microwave to overload the electrical circuit?

There are two possible causes of why the microwave keeps tripping the circuit breaker:

The microwave is not functioning properly and is pulling too much electrical current.
Too many electrical appliances are plugged into the same circuit.

Cause #1: The microwave is malfunctioning.

First, test to see if the problem is related to the way the microwave is functioning. Plug the microwave into an area where the breaker is set for a higher amp rating (like a garage), then turn on the microwave and see what happens.

If the circuit breaker in that area trips, it’s a sign that something is wrong with the microwave. You should either have the microwave fixed, or replace it.

If the breaker does not trip, it means the microwave is fine, but it needs its own dedicated circuit.

Cause #2: Too many appliances are plugged into the same circuit.

Because most microwaves pull about 12 amps, they need their own dedicated circuit. This means they shouldn’t share a circuit with any other appliances, or they’ll quickly overload the circuit and trip the breaker.

To check to see if your microwave is on a dedicated circuit, look at the label on the tripped breaker. If it says “microwave,” it’s probably on a dedicated circuit. If not, it’s likely that the microwave is sharing a circuit with other appliances and the circuit is becoming overloaded.

Need dedicated circuit installation? Call Grounded Solutions today!

As always, leave the electrical work to the pros. Whether you’re sure you need dedicated circuit installation, or you just need help diagnosing an electrical problem, the local electricians at Grounded Solutions are happy to help!

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Why Does My Microwave Keep Tripping the Breaker: A Troubleshooting Guide

Why Does My Microwave Keep Tripping the Breaker?

If your microwave keeps tripping the breaker, it is likely due to the microwave overloading the electrical circuit.

This can happen if there are too many items plugged into the same circuit or if the microwave itself is drawing too much electricity.

To determine the cause, you can try plugging the microwave into a different outlet with a higher amperage or a guaranteed dedicated circuit.

If the microwave still trips the breaker, it needs to be repaired or replaced.

To prevent this issue in the future, it is important to have a dedicated circuit for the microwave to prevent overloading the circuit and potentially causing an electrical fire.

Key Points:

Microwave tripping the breaker is usually due to overloading the electrical circuit.
This can occur if there are too many devices plugged into the same circuit or if the microwave itself is drawing excessive electricity.
You can determine the cause by plugging the microwave into a different outlet with higher amperage or a guaranteed dedicated circuit.
If the microwave continues to trip the breaker, it requires repair or replacement.
To avoid future problems, it is advisable to have a dedicated circuit for the microwave to prevent circuit overload and potential electrical fires.

Did You Know?

1. The average microwave draws around 1,200 to 1,500 watts of power when in use, which is approximately the same as a typical air conditioner. 2. Microwaves have a magnetron that rapidly oscillates electrons to generate microwaves, which are then absorbed by food, causing it to heat up. 3. The spinning plate inside a microwave is designed to help distribute the heat evenly, ensuring that food cooks more uniformly. 4. Microwaves emit non-ionizing radiation, which means they do not have enough energy to damage DNA or cause cancer. 5. Microwaves were originally developed for cooking purposes in 1945, but it wasn’t until the late 1960s that they became affordable and popular kitchen appliances.

1. Overloading The Circuit

In modern households, electrical circuits are designed to handle a certain amount of power . When a device draws more electricity than the circuit can handle, it trips the breaker to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards. This is exactly what happens when a microwave keeps tripping the breaker . The circuit is being overloaded, causing it to shut off power to prevent any dangerous situations.

Microwaves are powerful appliances that require a significant amount of electricity to function. The high wattage used by microwaves is often more than what other small kitchen appliances, such as blenders or toasters, require. This extra power demand can easily overload a circuit that is already being used by multiple devices or appliances simultaneously.

Electrical circuits are designed to handle a certain amount of power
Device overload trips the breaker to prevent overheating and fire hazards
Microwaves draw more electricity and can cause circuit overload
Microwaves have higher wattage compared to other small appliances
Overloaded circuits can result from multiple devices or appliances in use simultaneously.

2. Possible Causes: Too Many Items Or A Defective Microwave

One possible cause of a microwave tripping the breaker is having too many items plugged into the same circuit. As mentioned earlier, the circuit can only handle a certain amount of power. If the microwave is sharing the circuit with multiple other devices that are also drawing power, it can push the circuit beyond its capacity . In such cases, unplugging other devices or redistributing the load among different circuits may solve the issue.

Another possible cause is a defective microwave . Sometimes, microwaves can develop internal electrical faults that cause them to draw an excessive amount of power or create a short circuit . If a microwave is defective and malfunctioning , it will consistently trip the breaker , no matter if it is the only device on the circuit.

3. Importance Of A Dedicated Circuit

Having a dedicated circuit for the microwave is crucial in preventing overloads and potential fire hazards. This is because a dedicated circuit means that the microwave is the only device connected to that specific circuit . This ensures that the circuit has enough capacity to handle the microwave’s power demand without being overloaded.

A microwave oven typically requires its own 20-amp circuit to operate safely . This ensures that the circuit can provide enough power without tripping the breaker . If a microwave is sharing a circuit with other devices, the combined power draw can exceed the circuit’s capacity, causing it to trip . To avoid this, it is essential to check the recommended power requirements for the microwave and ensure that it has an allocated circuit .

Having a dedicated circuit for the microwave prevents overloads and fire hazards.
A microwave oven typically requires a 20-amp circuit to operate safely.
Sharing a circuit with other devices can cause trips and exceed the circuit’s capacity.

4. Testing For Defectiveness

To determine if a microwave is defective, try testing it in a different outlet with a higher amperage or a guaranteed dedicated circuit. This will help determine whether the issue lies with the microwave itself or if it is caused by a shared circuit. By plugging the microwave into an outlet with a higher amperage, you can assess its performance without risking overloading the circuit.

If the microwave continues to trip the breaker when connected to a dedicated circuit or an alternate outlet, it is a clear indication that the microwave is defective and requires repair or replacement. Using a faulty microwave can pose serious safety risks, such as electrical fires.

5. Repair Or Replacement If Breaker Keeps Tripping

If the microwave consistently trips the breaker , it is essential to repair or replace it as soon as possible. Continuing to use a microwave that repeatedly overloads the circuit can lead to hazardous situations, including electrical fires .

If testing proves that the microwave is defective, contacting a professional repair service is recommended. They can diagnose and fix the issue, ensuring the safe functioning of the appliance. If the repair is not feasible or the microwave is outdated, it may be necessary to replace it with a new unit that meets the electrical requirements and has a dedicated circuit .

It’s important to note that using a microwave that keeps tripping the breaker signifies an issue with electrical overloading. Possible causes include: Having too many devices on the same circuit A defective microwave drawing excessive power

To identify if the microwave is defective, testing the microwave on an alternate outlet can help. If it is indeed defective, it should be repaired or replaced to ensure the safety of the home and electronics. Safeguarding the home and electronics requires proper maintenance of electrical circuits and appliances, ensuring their safe operation and long-lasting functionality .

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my microwave tripping the breaker all of a sudden.

It is likely that the sudden tripping of the circuit breaker is due to a malfunction in the microwave, causing it to draw an excessive amount of electrical current. The increased electrical load exceeds the capacity of the circuit, resulting in the breaker tripping as a safety measure. Alternatively, if there are numerous other electrical appliances plugged into the same circuit, the cumulative power demand may surpass the circuit’s limit, leading to the breaker being tripped. This can be resolved by either repairing the microwave or redistributing the appliances to different circuits to balance the electrical load.

How do I stop my appliances from tripping the breaker?

To prevent your appliances from tripping the breaker, you can also try reducing the power load by unplugging any unnecessary appliances. Sometimes, overloading a circuit with too many appliances running simultaneously can cause the breaker to trip. By removing unnecessary appliances, you can help distribute the power evenly and reduce the chances of tripping the breaker.

Why does my microwave keep breaking the outlet?

One possible reason why your microwave keeps breaking the outlet could be due to an overloaded circuit. The circuit in your electrical system is designed to handle a specific maximum number of amperes, and excessive power usage from multiple appliances running simultaneously can cause the breaker to trip. Given that microwaves draw a significant amount of power when in use, it’s possible that their usage, along with other appliances on the same overloaded circuit, is consistently exceeding the circuit’s capacity.

If you continue to experience this issue, it might be prudent to redistribute the load on the circuit by plugging the microwave into a different outlet. Alternatively, you could consider upgrading the electrical circuit to accommodate the increased power demands, ensuring a more stable and functional operation of your microwave without constantly tripping the breaker.

Do microwaves have circuit breakers?

Yes, microwaves have circuit breakers to ensure safe operation. They require an individual branch circuit with the appropriate voltage and grounding type receptacle. The circuit breaker or time-delay fuse protects the microwave from electrical overloads and helps prevent damage or potential hazards. It is especially important for over-the-range microwave models to be on a dedicated circuit to ensure optimal performance and avoid potential electrical issues.

Common Reasons Your Microwave Trips the Breaker

February 1, 2024
By Prasanna K

Nowadays people are so fond of microwaves and why not? It makes the complete process so easy and tasty that everyone loves it. But there can be a weak point of this amazingly smart tool i.e. it might trip your home circuit breaker. Well if you are one of those, this article is for you.

Why is My Microwave Tripping the Breaker?

Isn’t it frustrating when your favorite device keeps tripping the home circuit breaker? we’ll definitely, Yes. But it is completely the fault of the device there can be many reasons behind it. Many people think the device has been damaged or is working properly due to which they are facing the problem. To be honest this can be one of the reasons but not the only reason. In today’s article, we will be learning about some of the major possibilities that can trip your home circuit breaker and how we can fix it.

What are the Reasons Why the Microwave is Tripping Your Breaker?

If your microwave is frequently tripping the breaker and you keep repairing it but still the issue is not resolved then the problem is not just with the microwave . There can be many other reasons, like an overloaded circuit breaker, faulty capacitor, or using too many appliances at the same time. So without wasting any more time let’s learn about all these issues in detail.

1. Overloaded Circuit Breaker

Every circuit has a predetermined value of its maximum electricity flow capacity. If the breaker is tripping more frequently, then there might be more electricity flow than the circuit can handle. It usually happens when an individual is using too many appliances at the same time. But it cannot be the only reason, because nowadays there are many devices in the market that consume a lot of electricity while working. So there can be just one device or more that affects the current flow of the circuit.

2. Defective Microwave

Microwaves can malfunction in such cases, the reason being. If the microwave is defective then it will consume more electricity to work because of which the circuit will get overloaded. As discussed in the above segment if the circuits get overloaded with the current flow then it causes the tripping of the breaker.

3. Electrical Supply Problem

Electrical supply is the most common yet less noticeable problem in most situations. Many people don’t think about it, as they start assuming there can be an issue with the device or wiring but not with the electricity supply. Well, that’s not true. Users can face tripping off their breakers due to electricity supply. The supply issue usually occurs due to voltage fluctuations, frequency variations, or intermittent power supply. that disturbs the proper current flow. Because of this, the breaker gets tripped.

4. Faulty Capacitor

The capacitor is a device that is used to store electricity and release it when there is a requirement. Generally, the faulty capacitor is not a direct reason for breaker tripping. As this device itself is made to regularize the current flow in the circuit which reduces the risk of tripping a breaker. But there are chances the capacitor might function strangely due to the inrush of the current which might even cause its short circuit.

5. Malfunctioning Door Safety Latch

Door safety latches are the least expected issue that might cause the tripping of the breaker. The door safety latches are mechanical components that have no direct connection with the breaker or current flow, but they work along with the microwave interlock switches. That is why if the door safety latch is not working properly it will lead to the malfunctioning of the microwave. The device might not start or will stop in the middle of the process and this can lead to tripping of your breaker.

6. Turntable Motor Problem

Just like a malfunctioning door safety latch a Turntable motor cannot be the direct cause of breaker tripping. But yes, if the Turntable motor starts functioning strangely it might cause the microwave to malfunction which might disturb the current flow and it will cause the breaker to trip. The Turntable motor problem can occur due to a short circuit in the motor wiring or if the motor gets overloaded.

7. Issues With the High-Voltage Section

A high-voltage section in any electrical appliance is one of the parts of the device that deals with the generation and management of high-voltage to complete specific tasks. In the microwave case, the key elements of the high-voltage section can be a magnetron, a high-voltage capacitor/ transformer, or a high-voltage diode. These elements are generally used to generate radiation in the microwave so that it can be used for cooking. If any of these components has a problem in working it will directly lead to a malfunctioning of the microwave and then it will cause the trip of the breaker.

8. Using too Many Appliances Simultaneously, in the Same Circuit

Every circuit has a predetermined value of maximum capacity it can hold in terms of current flow. Generally, home appliances do not consume much energy which is good for general circuits. But if a user adds too many appliances in the same circuit it might lead to a short circuit or tripping of the breaker. The reason is, that adding too many appliances will increase the demand for current flow, because of which the circuit might get overloaded.

9. Aging of Wires and Outlets

Every electrical component requires maintenance on a regular basis. As these components are in continuous working from the time of their installation. Because of this, there is a gradual deterioration in the components like wires and outlets. This can lead to an unstable current flow in the circuit. The malfunctioning of the wire and outlets can damage appliances permanently and can also lead to a short circuit or trip of the breaker.

10. Diode Issues

A Diode is a very crucial component in any electrical system. The basic working principle of the diode is to convert the alternating current coming from the transformer into a direct current which will be used for the magnetron. If any disturbance occurs in the working of the diode it will directly lead to the malfunctioning of the magnetron and this will cause problems for the microwave.

How to Fix the Microwave Tripping Circuit Breaker?

1. check the circuit breaker.

Checking the circuit breaker is an important task to avoid frequent tripping of the breaker. Firstly you just need to Locate the Circuit breaker and check if there is any already tripped breaker. If you see any of them in the off position turn them On. You can also reset the breaker by moving it from the On position to Off and then moving back to the On position again. If the breaker again falls to the off position and you feel it slightly loose, then it’s an indication that the breaker is tripped.

Note: Make sure you unplug all the appliances before proceeding further and also prioritize your safety first if you are unsure of any of this you can always seek help from professionals

2. Make Sure the Microwave isn’t the Fault

Finding the cause of breaker tripping is a really tough job, there can be many possibilities that might lead to it. But a user can always start with the microwave itself. Make sure the microwave is working fine and it has no faults in it. A user can identify the microwave fault by its malfunctioning like not generating enough heat or turning off automatically in the middle of a task. These are some of the issues a user might face if there is a fault in the microwave. And if you experience any of such it is better to contact professional support to avoid any future problems.

3. Inspect the Door Safety Latch

The door safety latch may be just a mechanical component but has crucial working in the microwave system of the microwave. As they are aligned directly with the internal switch-locking system of the microwave. The malfunctioning of the door safety latch may lead to improper closing of the microwave door. So before proceeding any further make sure you check the microwave door is closing properly.

4. Inspect the Turntable Motor

The turntable motor is a very important component in any microwave. A turntable motor is used to rotate the tray present in the middle of the cooking compartment.

Malfunctioning of the turntable motor can also lead to tripping of the breaker. It is better to check if the motor is working properly. Below is the step-by-step guide to inspect the turntable motor.

Step 1: Unplug the microwave

Step 2: Check if direct access is possible to the motor if not then remove the other supporting components.

Step 3: Check if there is any physical damage to the component.

Step 4: Check if the rotation of the motor is smooth and has no disturbance by manually rotating the motor.

Step 5: Check if the shaft that connects the motor to the tray is clean and has no problem functioning.

Note: One can identify the problem in the shaft if it creates a noise while functioning.

If everything seems fine you can connect all the components back in the proper manner and can seek a professional’s help for any further processing.

5. Inspect the Capacitor

Before inspecting any electrical component make sure the device is unplugged or disconnected from the power source. Once done then have a quick visual inspection and check for any physical damage or crack present there on the body of the device. If the capacitor is faulty you might sense a burnt smell from the device. It is always advised to seek professional help for the inspection of electrical appliances.

Microwave Trips Breaker – FAQs

Ans: Yes, as the outlets are the main source to supply the current from the power source to the appliance and any disturbance in this flow can lead to the tripping of the breaker or can also damage the appliances,

Ans: Yes, using a microwave simultaneously with other high-powered appliances will consume more power from the power source and this will create an unusual load on the capacitor, Due to which the breaker might trip.

Ans: Yes, any faulty component in the microwave or any other electrical appliance will disturb the functioning of the devices due to which the current flow might get unstable which can cause the tripping of the breaker

Ans: Any external humid change or temperature variation will affect the working of the microwave and disturb the current flow in the circuit due to which the breaker might get tripped.

Microwave is a very important device in any regular household, it has changed the methods of cooking and reheating leftovers. But it can also be one of the major reasons to trip a circuit breaker due to its malfunction. Tripping of the breaker can happen for many reasons like an overload circuit or faulty components. One can always avoid such instances by having a regular inspection of their appliances, circuits, and outlets. If you identify or sense any unusual issue with an appliance or circuit make sure you seek help from the professionals and prioritize your safety first.

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Home » circuit breaker » microwave tripping the breaker

Microwaves Tripping the Circuit Breaker: Causes & How to Fix It.

Microwave ovens have become an essential kitchen appliance for our daily cooking. But, like all power-hungry electrical devices , they require much energy to work. This sometimes trips the breaker .

If your microwave is tripping the breaker, it may be due to circuit overload, faulty microwave, or defective electrical component.

Keep on reading to find out why microwave oven trips circuit breaker and how to fix it.

Common problems with microwave ovens

Despite the use of microwaves in our daily cooking, it sometimes encounters some problems that can affect their performance.

Some of these problems include:

Uneven heating
Faulty turntable motor
Unresponsive buttons
Faulty door latch.

Reasons why your microwave keeps tripping the breaker

Circuit breakers are rated in amps and are designed to carry a certain number of loads. If it carries more load than rated or there is a faulty appliance on the circuit, it will draw more currents causing the breaker to trip.

So the major reasons your microwave keeps blowing the breaker include:

1. Overloaded circuit breaker

Every circuit breaker on the electrical panel has a specific amp load it can safely handle. If you plug more appliances on the circuit than rated, it will trip the breaker .

A microwave draws between 12 and 15 amps and should be on a dedicated 20-amp circuit breaker connected to the main breaker box. You should never plug more appliances into a dedicated circuit for safety purposes .

2. Defective microwave components (turntable motor, capacitor, or switch)

If a certain component of your microwave is faulty, it can trip the circuit breaker. Defective components, such as a faulty capacitor, door switch or turntable motor draw more current than rated.

This excessive current can lead to circuit overload and subsequently tripping your circuit breaker.

To see if there is a defective component that is tripping your breaker, unplug the oven and plug it into a higher dedicated circuit such as a 30 amp breaker .

If the appliance trips the circuit again, then the microwave is faulty and you will need an expert to repair it.

3. Faulty wiring

When there is loose connection or partial contact along the electrical circuit, it can result to a short circuit and tripped breaker.

Inspect the socket to see if there are burnt parts or wire, or if the plug is hard to unplug.

If you cannot do this on your own, call a certified electrician to help you troubleshoot the cause.

4. Power surge

External factors such as lightning strike or power surge from the electrical grid can also cause microwave related circuit breaker trip.

You can install surge protector on your electrical outlets to help safeguard your appliances from voltage spike.

When to Call an electrician

If you have tried all the troubleshooting tips mentioned in this article and your microwave keeps tripping the circuit breaker, it may be time to call a professional.

An experienced technician will have the expertise to diagnose and repair any issues with your microwave. It is important not to attempt any complicated repairs yourself, as microwaves can be dangerous if mishandled.

An expert will ensure that your appliance is repaired safely, giving you peace of mind.

From the article above, I hope you have been able to understand the reasons behind your microwave tripping the breaker?

This is mostly due to circuit overload, malfunctioning components and bad wiring system .

Always call an electrician if you can’t fix it yourself.

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About mariaelectricals

Hi, I am Emmanuel Nwankwo, a commercial electrician and the founder of mariaelectricals.com . I established this blog to share my decades of work experience in electrical installations and repairs.

Why Your Microwave Trips The Circuit Breaker (and How To Fix It)

What To Know

If other appliances are also consuming power, such as a toaster or air conditioner, the combined load can exceed the capacity of the circuit.
If the wiring in your home is old or inadequate, consider upgrading it to handle the power requirements of the microwave.
Locate the circuit breaker panel and flip the breaker that controls the microwave to the “off”.

A microwave oven is an indispensable kitchen appliance that makes our lives easier . However, it can be frustrating when it unexpectedly trips the circuit breaker , leaving us in the dark and without our favorite meals. Understanding the reasons behind this issue is crucial for preventing future occurrences and ensuring a smooth and safe microwave experience.

Electrical Overload

One of the most common causes of microwave circuit breaker trips is electrical overload . When the microwave is operating at high power, it draws a significant amount of electricity. If other appliances are also consuming power, such as a toaster or air conditioner, the combined load can exceed the capacity of the circuit. This overloads the circuit and triggers the breaker to trip as a safety measure.

Faulty Microwave

A malfunctioning microwave can also cause circuit breaker trips . A faulty magnetron, the component responsible for generating microwaves, can draw excessive current, leading to an overload. Additionally, damaged wiring or loose connections can create electrical shorts that trip the breaker.

Inadequate Wiring

The wiring in your home may not be able to handle the power requirements of the microwave. If the wires are too thin or old, they may not be able to carry the high amperage needed by the appliance. This can lead to overheating and circuit breaker trips.

Power Surges

Power surges are sudden increases in voltage that can damage electrical appliances . These surges can occur during thunderstorms or when other heavy electrical equipment is used. A power surge can overload the microwave and trip the circuit breaker.

Faulty Circuit Breaker

In rare cases , the circuit breaker itself may be faulty. A damaged or worn-out breaker may trip prematurely or fail to trip when necessary. If you suspect a faulty circuit breaker, it’s important to have it inspected by a licensed electrician.

How to Prevent Microwave Circuit Breaker Trips

Avoid overloading the circuit: Use the microwave on a dedicated circuit or avoid using other high-power appliances simultaneously.
Have the microwave serviced regularly: A qualified technician can inspect the microwave for any potential electrical issues and make necessary repairs.
Upgrade the wiring: If the wiring in your home is old or inadequate, consider upgrading it to handle the power requirements of the microwave.
Protect against power surges: Install a surge protector on the microwave’s electrical outlet.
Replace the circuit breaker: If the circuit breaker is faulty, have it replaced by a licensed electrician.

Troubleshooting Tripped Microwave Circuit Breaker

Reset the circuit breaker: Locate the circuit breaker panel and flip the breaker that controls the microwave to the “off” position. Wait a few seconds and then flip it back to the “on” position.
Check the microwave: Unplug the microwave and inspect the power cord for any damage. If the cord is damaged, do not use the microwave and contact a qualified technician.
Try a different outlet: Plug the microwave into a different outlet to see if the issue persists.
Call an electrician: If the problem continues, call a licensed electrician to diagnose and repair the issue.

The Final Word: Microwave Circuit Breaker Harmony

Understanding the reasons why a microwave trips the circuit breaker sometimes is essential for preventing this frustrating occurrence. By addressing electrical overload , faulty microwaves , inadequate wiring, power surges, and faulty circuit breakers, you can ensure that your microwave operates safely and efficiently, making your kitchen life a breeze. Remember, if you encounter any persistent issues, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance from a qualified electrician.

Why Does My Microwave Keep Tripping the Breaker? Answers Revealed

You put some food in the microwave to warm up, hit start, and all the lights in your kitchen went out. Lo and behold, you tripped your circuit breaker. If this is a common occurrence, you’re probably asking yourself: why does my microwave keep tripping the breaker ?

The short answer is that your microwave is generally tripping your circuit breaker because it’s overloaded. When you first turn a microwave on, that’s when it draws the most power.

Let’s talk a little bit more about what that means, and also how you can fix it moving forward. It’s also important to understand how many amps a microwave uses , as that will tell you a lot about your circuit requirements.

why does my microwave keep tripping the breaker dinners done quick guide featured image

Why is My Microwave Tripping the Breaker?

The most common reason that a microwave is tripping the breaker is that the circuit is overloaded.

Most average microwaves require 10-15 amps to run. However, that’s not the maximum amount of power that your microwave pulls at startup. For example, my 1000W microwave draws 1800W of power to produce the 1000W cooking power output.

What that means is that it basically draws about 6 more amps when I first turn it on versus the rest of the cooking cycle.

If you’ve based your calculations off of the “wattage” of your microwave – you may be in for a shock to learn that’s probably not enough.

Then, factor in any other lights or outlets that get power off the same circuit, and you’ll have a better idea of what the load you’re putting on it is. If you’re over the limit, the breaker is going to trip every time for safety.

Why is My Microwave Tripping the Breaker All of a Sudden?

If your microwave is tripping the breaker all of a sudden and it hasn’t been a previously existing problem, it likely means something is wrong with your microwave.

As microwaves age, certain parts can start to break down or come loose inside the microwave (very common with switches). It can also happen if something damages the microwave, like what happens when you microwave nothing or what if you accidentally put a fork in the microwave .

This can cause a power surge beyond what should be expected when you start the microwave, which will cause a sudden and new tripping of the breaker to occur.

That said, it still could be a problem with your outlet or electrical, so don’t rule that out entirely. However, it’s more likely to be an aged or damaged microwave at fault.

Sometimes it’s an easy fix with switches if you’re handy. If you’re not, or it’s more complicated than that, check out our best microwaves under $100 for a budget friendly replacement option!

Why is My Microwave Tripping the Breaker When I Close the Door?

If your microwave is tripping the breaker when you close the door, it’s likely due to a faulty micro switch on your microwave . Typically, these switches are used as sensors to determine when the door is opened or closed.

You won’t be able to run the microwave with the door in the open position because of this safety mechanism.

However, if one or all of these electrical connections goes bad, it can create an issue beyond just not letting you run the microwave.

The micro switches will trip your breaker as a safety mechanism when the circuit cannot be completed as intended – basically they short out and the circuit trips because of it.

While they can sometimes be repaired, in many cases it’s just as expensive as buying a new microwave. Learn what to do with an old microwave for disposal options!

My Microwave Trips the Breaker After 2 Minutes of Use

If your microwave trips the breaker after over a minute of use, most often this means the fault lies in the breaker itself or your electrical system.

While it could still be the microwave, it’s far less likely when it’s happening after a minute or two of use.

Have an electrician check for loose wires, loose grounds, and any other issues with the circuit breaker that would account for the problem.

How Do You Fix a Microwave That’s Tripping the Breaker?

The first step to fixing a microwave that’s tripping the breaker is identifying where the problem is.

If it’s the door causing it, you’ll need the sensors repaired or to replace the unit.

Should the culprit be an overloaded circuit, you’ll want to test whether it’s the microwave or the circuit actually causing it.

Plug the microwave into a high-amperage circuit (typically found in your garage or utility room) and attempt to use it. If it pops that breaker, then the issue is a faulty microwave.

If the microwave runs fine on the high amperage circuit, then wherever you were using it previously was overloaded.

Try moving the microwave to a different circuit (of higher amperage if possible) or removing other items from the same circuit to make it dedicated instead of shared.

Whether it’s another small appliance or even just lights, these can use enough power in conjunction with a microwave to cause the breaker to trip.

Lastly, if the breaker is tripping only after the microwave has been running for 1-2 minutes, then have an electrician come take a look at the circuit breaker itself.

Final Thoughts

If your microwave keeps tripping the breaker, the culprit is generally an overloaded circuit, your microwave, or the breaker itself.

While it’s more common in countertop units that use wall or shared outlets, it’s a problem that can occur in over the stove microwaves as well.

Troubleshoot the issues you’re having to help identify the cause, and then work to fix the problem.

You may also be interested to know more about why your air fryer is tripping the breaker , as it’s common with this countertop appliance as well.

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Why Is My Microwave Tripping the Breaker?

Microwave ovens revolutionized kitchens across America when they came on the market in the 1970s. Since then, these technological marvels have come a long way, with more features, compact sizing, and greater cooking power than ever before. With greater power comes greater power usage, but if your microwave is tripping the breaker in your home, it's a sign that the appliance is overloading the electrical circuit. The questions are, why, and what can be done to solve the problem?

The highly trained, certified electricians at Hoffman Electrical & A/C have been solving issues with kitchen wiring and overloaded circuitry since 1989. If you live in Hillsborough or Pinellas County, give us a call at (866) 238-3243, or contact us online for an estimate.

Reasons Why Your Microwave Is Tripping Your Breaker

When an appliance such as a microwave oven repeatedly trips the circuit breaker, it's overloading the electrical circuit, which is rated to handle a finite number of amps. Once the microwave exceeds that number, the breaker is tripped and the electrical flow is shut off. In order for this type of reaction to occur, there must be one of two issues at hand:

Too many items are plugged into the same circuit that the microwave oven is on, causing an overload.
The microwave oven is defective and drawing an excessive amount of electricity.

Determining the exact cause of a tripped breaker involves a few simple steps:

Check to see if the microwave has its own dedicated circuit

A dedicated circuit is one that serves only one appliance, helping to protect your home and electronics. By having more than one major appliance on a circuit, you run the risk of overloading the circuit and tripping the breaker. Repeatedly tripping the breaker can cause it to deteriorate, and if it should fail to trip, the overloaded circuit may cause the wiring to overheat, placing your home at risk of an electrical fire.

A microwave oven needs its own 20-amp circuit in order to prevent an overload. If it has a dedicated circuit, the tripped breaker should be labeled with the word "microwave" — if not, it's likely a shared circuit. Regardless of whether your microwave oven is on a dedicated circuit, it's a good idea to move on to the next step to ensure the appliance is operating correctly.

Test the microwave to determine if it's defective

Plug the unit into an alternate outlet, in an area of your home where the breaker has a higher amperage, such as in a garage or workshop, or into an outlet with a guaranteed dedicated circuit. If the appliance trips the breaker, the problem lies with the microwave, and you'll need to either repair or replace it.

If the microwave oven doesn't trip the breaker, you'll need to have a dedicated circuit installed to prevent further issues. Call the experts at Hoffman Electrical & A/C for an estimate, or if you're uncertain whether or not your microwave oven has its own dedicated circuit. Give us a call at (866) 238-3243, or contact us online .

Why Choose Hoffman Electrical & A/C?

Hiring the right company to perform electrical work in your home is the key to your satisfaction and the safety of your home and family. The fully certified, licensed, experienced electricians at Hoffman Electrical & A/C are dedicated to offering quality, professional service, where you can expect:

Clear, upfront pricing.
Over 15 years of experience from licensed electricians.

Call Hoffman Electrical & A/C at (866) 238-3243 or contact us to schedule your electrical services today!

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Microwave Oven

Repair guides and troubleshooting information for microwave ovens.

parag @diyaddict

Posted: Mar 6, 2020

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GE microwave: JVM3160RF4SS trips breaker during cook cycle

hello, today, all of a sudden our GE microwave, model, JVM3160RF4SS which we purchased in 2018 started tripping the circuit breaker. The circuit only trips when attempting to run a cook cycle. I am able to run the exhaust, all lights, open/close doors without any issues. While searching online for answers, i ran into several posts that mentioned checking the fuse. i have checked the fuse that is behind the plastic grill and it does not appear to be blown.

I am wondering if anyone has experienced this kind of failure before and have any suggestions on what could be the root cause.

Is this a good question?

Yes! So annoying! About 6 months ago it started tripping if we would open the door before the microwave beeped. It actually blew our circuit that the microwave is on and we had to replace two outlets. Now it happens the second we turn the microwave on. I think we’re just going to replace-I’m sick of dealing with it and don’t want to risk a fire. Terrible microwave for sure!

Apr 16, 2020 by Christine Riedel

We also purchase our microwave in 2018 (February to be exact)

@Christine Riedel ,

You should always pause or turn off the microwave using the microwave's control panel before opening the door, as a high current is flowing through the door interlock switches when the microwave is operating.

The door interlock switches are a safety feature designed to prevent the microwave from operating and emitting harmful radiation if a door is open and should not be used as a bypass for the correct way to operate the microwave .

You now know what results in doing it the wrong way

Apr 16, 2020 by jayeff

@jayeff Yes, of course. Now if you can teach my husband and kids, that would be great. Seems that there’s an issue with this microwave regardless though.

What is the make and model number of the microwave?

If it is tripping the breaker now as soon as is turned on there there most probably is faulty component or perhaps a wire that is touching the chassis that is causing this to happen.

You could try opening the microwave to inspect it for "flash" burn marks on the case or stressed components (burnt looking etc) to see if anything is obvious.

Be aware that microwaves are dangerous to work on even when unplugged as they can store >6000V in the HV capacitor for months unless it is discharged correctly before proceeding with any repairs. This amount of voltage can be lethal depending on your medical condition or it is still capable of giving a nasty shock.

Don't know about your husband but maybe advising the kids that they'll be paying for it if they damage it might slow them down a bit. Worked on me a long, long time ago. As a kid, it used to take me weeks to pay for things out of my pocket money/part time before school job for what I damaged. ;-)

Show 27 more comments

David McLean @davidmclea78842

Posted: Jan 27, 2021

I had this exact same problem on my GE microwave. There are two slots where the door latches closed onto the main microwave unit. The lower slot has a little button in there that is supposed to press in/closed when you close the door. If the button is gummed up with residue then the microwave will trip the circuit breaker. Unplug the microwave then clean that button with a Qtip and alcohol and press the button in and out a few times to free it up again. Plug the microwave back in and you should be good to go.

Was this answer helpful?

39 Comments:

I had this exact same problem. David's post worked like a charm; problem solved!

Thanks to all who shared the solution.

Feb 5, 2021 by Duane Henle

Davids answer worked like a charm. For me it took quite a bit of prodding but finally this button just popped out. Saved me much trouble as this microwave is built-in over the stove and it’s difficult to deal with to replace

Mar 20, 2021 by Evan

David's solution worked for me as well. Thanks for saving me a service call!

Mar 27, 2021 by gideonlamb

Worked for me!

Apr 3, 2021 by chris

I'm so glad I found this! It worked on my 2017 model. Thank you!

Apr 22, 2021 by Dave

Show 34 more comments

jayeff @jayeff

Rep: 446.6k

Hi @diyaddict ,

There is usually only one fuse in a microwave oven. If it was faulty, nothing would work.

A circuit breaker operating indicates that the current flowing through it has exceeded its’ rating.

Have you proved that the problem is only when using the microwave, you didn’t say?

Does the circuit breaker also trip when using another appliance with the same or greater power consumption as the microwave when plugged into the same wall outlet?

Check the information labels on the appliances to check the power consumption figures e.g. microwave might say 1200W input and an electric kettle might say 2000W so try the kettle. If the breaker also trips when using the kettle, perhaps the problem is the breaker or the breaker circuit and not the microwave

If this occurs only with the microwave and then when the microwave is cooking then there is a problem in the operating circuit of either the turntable motor, internal fan or the magnetron circuit as these components are in use when cooking and you have checked that all the other circuits that can be in operation without the microwave actually cooking don’t cause the problem to occur.

An example could be there is a low resistance connection between a wire carrying supply voltage in the microwave when it is cooking and the frame of the microwave which is earthed (wire rubbing on frame perhaps) and therefore this trips the breaker. This is a safety feature, preventing electrocution if someone touches the metal case of the oven.

In any event there are several possible causes and the microwave would have to be opened and tested as to the cause of the problem. In electrical circuits and electronic circuits is doesn’t have to be the same fault every time that can give the same symptoms

Working on microwave ovens is extremely dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing . There is still potentially lethal voltage (>6000V) in the microwave circuit even when it has been disconnected from the power for some time. If you don’t know what you’re doing then don’t do it! It’s not worth it, leave it to the experts .

7 Comments:

Sorry i didnt realize u had provided feedback. The circuit breaker tripping was only happening when using microwave, and that to barely, it used to trip 1 second into the heat cycle.

Based on my research and having spoken to GE directly, it was pretty apparent that by the time i would have figured out which part was defective, i would have racked up the bill which would have been close to or over the cost of a new microwave, even if i was to do the troubleshoot myself. While talking to GE, i recall this one part (magnetron?) that is buried deep on the back of this microwave, and that part alone costed about $137. When i asked GE and other techs around my area, the cost of anyone to come out and investigate/repair was well over $300.

i have plugged the new microwave into the same power outlet where the old one was plugged in and so far there are no issues, so i guess its safe to assume that the problem was with the old microwave.

thanks for your feedback

Apr 21, 2020 by parag

I have the same problem. It is on a dedicated 15 amp circuit and it has made no difference. Is there a flaw in the GE microwaves? The previous GE, we had was great and lasted over 20 years! The model # is JVM3160DF4WW and the serial # LL268042A. The manufacture date is June 2018.

Oct 6, 2020 by David L Panzlau

The problem is actually one of the 3 microswitches for the latch mechanisism. Really, if you don't know the actual soulution, do not leave a comment.

Nov 17, 2020 by Brad Evans

@spaceguy85

Electrical faults displaying the same symptoms have to be tested to determine where it is and not just assumed that it is always the same cause. It would make it a lot easier if this was the case.

I've had faulty HV transformers in microwave ovens that blew fuses every time that the oven was started and this had nothing to do with the interlock switches.

Nov 17, 2020 by jayeff

sounds like we should start a class action law suit on GE due to the faulty magnetron part ....Had 2 now that went and they wont do anything ....

Jan 1, 2022 by RCR Auto

Show 2 more comments

Peter Chiamardas @peterchiamardas

Posted: Sep 28, 2021

Same problem with GE microwave mfg in 2018. When you try to start the microwave, breaker trips within a second.

Found the ‘door monitor' switch was bad. It's the middle microswitch (not top, not bottom) behind the main keyboard panel. Ordered from Amazon and replaced for less than $10. Bad switch had it's contacts fused together by electrical current. Watch YouTube videos to see how to replace it.

6 Comments:

Can you share the part you ordered.

Sep 28, 2021 by chris

There are 3 door switches. Top, Middle, and bottom. Which are NC (normally closed and NO (normally open).

May 15, 2022 by Ken Weiss

Door switch KW3A-16 was my bad switch (middle N/C), but I bought all 3. KW3A Microwave Oven Door Switch 16A 125V/250V Door Interloc (2 Normally Open and 1 Normally Close) https://a.co/d/cZBHOTD

Jun 29, 2022 by Steve B

I replaced all 3 switches and now as soon as I turn on the breaker, the microwave sounds like it is running. Help please!

Nov 20, 2023 by Irene

Updating. After I replaced the bad switches, the microwave ran successfully for a while, but then the breaker started tripping again. Switches were still good. By then my wife and I decided to just get a new oven. Still worth the effort and parts cost to delay the big expense, but for us, it was unavoidable in the end.

Nov 23, 2023 by Steve B

Show 1 more comment

bill @ruggb

Posted: Dec 17, 2021

I just fixed one. The door monitor switch is the prime suspect, BUT not the only thing. If that switch is not activated when the door is closed it puts a direct short across the AC line, which is what trips the breaker, but it does not blow the internal fuse. The problem can also be caused by worn out plastic assy. that holds the switches allowing the activator to drop too low and not trip the switch - as it was in the one I fixed. You need to verify that the switch is functioning or not, then look closely at the area the activator rides over. If it looks rough and worn, it is a $35+ part. The switch is also being scammed for the same or more, but can be had on AliExpress for about $5.

As Bill says, the plastic switch holder that the door latches engage should also be changed out as long as you have everything opened up. This is because the door latches cause significant wear on the plastic of the switch holder. The effect is that the top latch depresses the top primary switch deeper than it should and when opening the door that switch remains engaged (closed) by the latch a little too long. The middle switch doesn’t have this problem so it disengages from the lower latch first and it closes. With the upper and middle switches closed at the same time, even for an instant, you get a 120v short circuit and the breaker trips.

Even if your problem wasn’t when opening the door, this problem is just a matter of time before it occurs due to ongoing wear on the switch holder. I ordered our new switch holder part on Amazon as a Frigidaire 5304509457 - an exact match for my GE microwave. I replaced all 3 switches at the same time with parts from Amazon (Lonye switches).

Jan 17, 2022 by doug

Michael Melson @michaelmel64017

Posted: Dec 12, 2021

I have the same microwave, manufactured in 2018, tripping breaker, so I replace the door switch, it worked for a month, then I had to replace all 3 switches lasted another month. So done replacing microwave but not with a GE. Just tired of fixing it.

you probably need to replace the plastic piece that holds the switches unless the problem changed.

Jan 26, 2022 by bill

Steve B @steveb89387

Posted: Jun 29, 2022

Problem: GE Microwave model JVM3160RF2SS trips kitchen breaker as soon as the cook cycle begins. Problem repeats on other circuits in the house.

As other posts indicate, check the door switch.

https://youtu.be/eP7CTUQgRvg

Not very technical, but quick to the point.

I found the middle switch to be nonfunctional. It's the one "n/c". Marked kw3at-16

Searched kw3at-16 on Amazon and went with all 3:

KW3A Microwave Oven Door Switch 16A 125V/250V Door Interloc (2 Normally Open and 1 Normally Close) https://a.co/d/emlGtGc

Now, I wait a day for the parts...

4 Comments:

These Microwaves are JUNK and GE does not want anything to do with them out of warranty - should be and is in some places a class action law suit - faulty machines .........

Jun 29, 2022 by RCR Auto

Good luck. I ordered those switches several times over and would get by for a few months only...each time. Agree with RCR Auto. JUNK...so I moved on and will never go back to GE.

Jun 29, 2022 by BryceC

The switches wear out but also the plastic part that holds them. The plastic part wears out from the door latches rubbing against it, and this causes the switches to not be engaged properly and they cause a short. As long as you’re replacing the switches I’d strongly recommend replacing the plastic holder part at the same time. See comments above by Bill and myself.

Jun 29, 2023 by doug

Kyle @kyle57170

Posted: Sep 28, 2023

Had the same issue and it was the middle switch that needed to be replaced. However, I think the plastic piece securing the monitor switch broke as I was taking the faulty switch out. This prevented the new switch from sitting flush in the harness. I took some electrical tape and bumped it to plastic side of switch and it would sit flush. Is this a hazard? It was a 3 cm piece of electrical tape. Microwave working fine now.

3 Comments:

No hazard. Just not sure how long it may last. Could go the life of the unit. I put a dab of gorilla glue on mine and has been working fine. If you want to spring for about $40 I believe the whole plastic assembly that holds the switches is available.

Sep 29, 2023 by Dave

Thanks for the feedbackb

Oct 1, 2023 by Kyle

@irene46841

What is the make and model number of the microwave oven?

Nov 20, 2023 by jayeff

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Why Does My GE Microwave Keep Tripping the Breaker?

Written by Edwin Jones / Fact checked by Andrew Wright

There’s no shortage of homeowners who wonder, “Why does my GE microwave keep tripping the breaker?” The most common answer to this is that it’s causing an electrical overload on the circuit. This applies to almost any kind of appliance that goes above the rated ampacity of the breaker.

Do take note that when a microwave keeps tripping the breaker, there could be other less common reasons behind it. It could be due to faulty switches and capacitors or even an electrical leak. Discover them all by reading on.

Table of Contents

Electrical Overloads Remain the Usual Culprit

1. faulty components and technical errors, 2. electrical leakages, 3. loose wiring, 4. the microwave itself is already broken..

If your GE microwave trips the circuit breaker , it’s best to rule this problem out first. It could be as simple as having way too many appliances plugged in at a time. Your circuit breaker has a limited amperage, and once your load goes over that, the breaker trips to prevent further damage to the circuit and devices connected to it.

This is more likely if the microwave shares a circuit with other appliances. Electricians recommend dedicating an entire circuit for most appliances that require greater loads.

That being said, it’s a relatively simple problem for most. One solution to a microwave tripping the breaker frequently is to simply reduce the load by unplugging appliances that you don’t need, which share a circuit with the microwave before using it.

Other Possible Causes You Should Consider

This is especially true if the GE microwave trips the breaker on startup. You may be dealing with faulty microswitches that cause errors, which in turn, cause the trip.

Usually, it happens like this. You set the temperature, then start it up. After a second or two of normal operation, it dies down because the breaker trips. This happens every time unless you get to the root of the problem.

The same goes for busted door switches or times when the timer becomes jammed. Check for damage on the microwave’s door safety latch’s switches. When the microwave trips the breaker when the door closes, it could be due to this issue.

For the timer, jams arise from damage to its components as well.

Other parts that may have gone out of commission, which may cause trips, include:

Defective transformers
Faulty capacitors
Blown interference suppressors

At least two of these problems will cause the microwave to make a loud noise before tripping, so be on the lookout for that particular symptom.

Suppressors, in particular, may blow and cause a short circuit . Be extra mindful of them.

The electrical leakages can happen from a specific part, namely the magnetron. Once these leakages happen, the trips almost always follow suit.

You should be extra cautious if you think this is the issue. This kind of problem has a remarkably higher risk of electrocution. Have it properly diagnosed by a technician to ensure safety.

While a rare cause, it’s been pointed out before that loose wiring can also be a factor.

Loose wiring that makes contact with the chassis should be ruled out because it’s been found to be connected to microwave trips breaker problems before.

Sometimes, a malfunctioning microwave may cause trips. This has been reported before by people who encounter scenarios like when the GE microwave trips the breaker when its door opens . You may want to check if it’s due to a faulty door switch.

NOTE: Obviously, checking for damaged components will require you to take your microwave apart. If you’re unsure of your skills in handling electrical problems, I advise you to leave it to the professionals instead.

If you think it’s a minor problem that you can solve on your own, always take extra precautions by making sure the appliance is unplugged before taking it apart. Wear rubber-insulated gloves as well.

The following video provides more information about microwave tripping circuit problems and helpful tips on how to fix insignificant issues:

It may help you save a couple of bucks, assuming your issue belongs in the said category.

To sum it up, check for an overload problem first since it’s the easiest to fix. Otherwise, use the possible issues why does my ge microwave keep tripping the breaker we’ve listed above as a reference. Furthermore, please keep this pointer in mind: Unless you’re sure that you won’t break the microwave or put yourself at risk of electrocution once you try to fix it, it’s best to leave it to the pros. A couple of bucks for repair may be well worth it considering the alternative scenarios.

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COMMENTS

Microwave Tripping Circuit Breaker? How to Fix It
Step 1 - Check the circuit breaker. The best place to start is to inspect the circuit breaker to see if it's becoming overloaded when you use your microwave. If this is the case the circuit breaker may need to be repaired or replaced. Here's how to check the circuit breaker: Locate your household breaker box. Check if your microwave is ...
Microwave Keeps Tripping Your Circuit Breaker? 6 Fixes
The simplest answer to why your microwave is tripping the breaker is that the circuit is overloaded. In my experience, the circuit can get overloaded if too many appliances are plugged into it. Please ensure your microwave is on a dedicated circuit by heading to the breaker box. If you cannot find a circuit labeled "Microwave," but there ...
Resolve It: How to Fix Microwave Tripping Circuit Breaker
It should be in the middle or "off" position. Flip the breaker all the way to the "on" position, then wait a few seconds before turning on your microwave again. If resetting the circuit breaker doesn't fix the issue, it may be an indication of a deeper problem. Proceed to the next step to identify any underlying causes.
(Why & Solving) Microwave Keeps Tripping Breaker
Why and how to fix microwave trips breaker after 2 minutes. If your microwave trips the breaker after 2 minutes, it could be due to several reasons. Some of the most common causes include: High Power Draw: The microwave may be drawing too much power, causing the breaker to trip. This can happen if the microwave is too old, or if it is ...
Why Your Microwave Keeps Tripping The Kitchen Circuit Breaker
First, determine if a door switch has shorted. If a microwave keeps tripping a circuit breaker, you should first determine if a door switch has shorted. Most microwaves have three or four door switches that allow the microwave to start or heat once the door is closed. The switches are secured in a door switch holder mounted to the inside of the ...
Why Does My Microwave Keep Tripping the Breaker?
Your microwave may be tripping the breaker due to several reasons, including an overloaded circuit, a defect within the microwave itself, voltage fluctuations, a wet turntable motor, a blown interference suppressor, a faulty door safety latch, or a damaged magnetron. To resolve this issue, ensure your microwave is connected to a dedicated ...
How to Fix Microwave Tripping Circuit Breaker
To fix: Identify which outlets correspond to the circuit that the microwave is on. You can test this when the microwave trips the circuit breaker by checking whether any other outlets are not working. Identify if any of the appliances on the circuit are high-consuming appliances. These tend to be appliances that use heat.
Why Does My Microwave Keep Tripping the Circuit Breaker?
If the circuit breaker in that area trips, it's a sign that something is wrong with the microwave. You should either have the microwave fixed, or replace it. If the breaker does not trip, it means the microwave is fine, but it needs its own dedicated circuit. Cause #2: Too many appliances are plugged into the same circuit. Because most ...
Why Does My Microwave Keep Tripping the Breaker: A Troubleshooting
1. Overloading The Circuit. In modern households, electrical circuits are designed to handle a certain amount of power.When a device draws more electricity than the circuit can handle, it trips the breaker to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards. This is exactly what happens when a microwave keeps tripping the breaker.The circuit is being overloaded, causing it to shut off power to ...
Why Your Microwave Keeps Tripping the Breaker
5. Power Settings and Circuit Overload. Using the microwave at its highest power settings for extended periods of time can overload your circuit, leading to your breaker tripping. Running other high-power appliances simultaneously on the same circuit can also cause your breaker to trip.
Common Reasons Your Microwave Trips the Breaker
Step 1: Unplug the microwave. Step 2: Check if direct access is possible to the motor if not then remove the other supporting components. Step 3: Check if there is any physical damage to the component. Step 4: Check if the rotation of the motor is smooth and has no disturbance by manually rotating the motor.
Microwave Tripping the Circuit Breaker: Causes & How to Fix It
Keep on reading to find out why microwave oven trips circuit breaker and how to fix it. 3 1. Overloaded circuit breaker. 4 2. Defective microwave components (turntable motor, capacitor, or switch) 5 3. Faulty wiring. 6 4. Power surge.
Microwave Keeps Tripping Breaker (Why & Fixing)
Microwave Trips Breaker After 2 Minutes. If a microwave trips the breaker after two minutes, it's likely due to a hardware issue. If it trips right away, there could be an issue with the electrical system. Take steps to find the cause and act accordingly.
Why Your Microwave Trips The Circuit Breaker (and How To Fix It)
Reset the circuit breaker: Locate the circuit breaker panel and flip the breaker that controls the microwave to the "off" position. Wait a few seconds and then flip it back to the "on" position. Check the microwave: Unplug the microwave and inspect the power cord for any damage. If the cord is damaged, do not use the microwave and ...
Why Does My Microwave Keep Tripping the Breaker? Answers Revealed
Lastly, if the breaker is tripping only after the microwave has been running for 1-2 minutes, then have an electrician come take a look at the circuit breaker itself. Final Thoughts. If your microwave keeps tripping the breaker, the culprit is generally an overloaded circuit, your microwave, or the breaker itself.
Why Is My Microwave Tripping the Breaker?
If the appliance trips the breaker, the problem lies with the microwave, and you'll need to either repair or replace it. If the microwave oven doesn't trip the breaker, you'll need to have a dedicated circuit installed to prevent further issues. Call the experts at Hoffman Electrical & A/C for an estimate, or if you're uncertain whether or not ...
Why Does My Microwave Keep Tripping The Breaker?
Nothing is more frustrating than popping something in the microwave and the breaker tripping. Usually, it's a simple fix involving going back to your breaker panel and flipping the circuit back on. You may only need to move appliances around, but there could be a serious problem if it trips repeatedly. 0.
How to Fix Your Microwave Tripping a Circuit Breaker
One of the most common causes of a microwave tripping a circuit breaker is overloading the circuit. Microwaves draw a significant amount of power when operating, and if the circuit is already handling a heavy load, it may not be able to handle the additional demand. To fix this issue, unplug any other high-powered appliances from the same ...
Why does my microwave keep tripping the breaker?
One possible reason for a microwave tripping the breaker is that it is drawing too much power. Microwaves are high-powered appliances, and if there are other devices on the same circuit, it can overload and trip the breaker. Another potential cause could be a faulty or damaged power cord or outlet. If the power cord or outlet is damaged, it can ...
GE microwave: JVM3160RF4SS trips breaker during cook cycle
Check the information labels on the appliances to check the power consumption figures e.g. microwave might say 1200W input and an electric kettle might say 2000W so try the kettle. If the breaker also trips when using the kettle, perhaps the problem is the breaker or the breaker circuit and not the microwave
Microwave Keeps Tripping Breaker? Here's WHY!
This problem when it happens to you can be overwhelming! For some reason this seems to be an issue more common on newer models. Before throwing your microwav...
Microwave tripping the breaker
The conventional oven will be on it's own circuit breaker (and if not then I suggest finding a new apartment because that's a serious building code violation) so will have no impact on the microwave oven. If the main panel breaker is tripping from the microwave oven then there might be something to say about an electrical panel problem with the ...
Why Does My GE Microwave Keep Tripping the Breaker?
The most common answer to this is that it's causing an electrical overload on the circuit. This applies to almost any kind of appliance that goes above the rated ampacity of the breaker. Do take note that when a microwave keeps tripping the breaker, there could be other less common reasons behind it. It could be due to faulty switches and ...

Microwave Tripping Circuit Breaker? How to Fix It

Step 1 – Check the circuit breaker

Step 2 – Make sure the microwave isn’t at fault

Step 3 – Inspect the door safety latch

Step 4 – Inspect the turntable motor

Step 5 – Inspect the capacitor

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if my microwave is on a dedicated circuit?

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Why Does My Microwave Keep Tripping the Circuit Breaker?

Common electrical questions answered by a local Indianapolis electrician.

Cause #1: The microwave is malfunctioning.