How to Fix a Samsung Microwave That Runs But Doesn’t Heat Food

How to Fix a Samsung Microwave That Runs But Doesn’t Heat Food

The most common reason why your Samsung microwave runs but doesn’t heat food is because it is in Demo mode, which is used to show off microwaves without activating their magnetron. The magnetron is the part that generates microwaves that heat up your food.

But don’t worry, there are other possible causes and solutions for this issue, and I’m going to share them with you in this blog post. I love my Samsung microwave, and I always use it to make quick and easy meals, snacks, and drinks. But sometimes, it acts up and doesn’t heat my food properly. That’s why I learned how to troubleshoot it and fix it myself.

So let’s get started!

How to Check If Your Samsung Microwave Is in Demo Mode

The first thing you should do if your Samsung microwave runs but doesn’t heat food is to check if it is in Demo mode. This mode is used on retail showroom floors to show off microwaves without activating their magnetron. The microwave will run normally, but it won’t heat anything.

An easy way to test for Demo mode is to set a cooking time and start the microwave. In Demo mode, the timer counts down much faster than usual.

If your unit is in Demo mode, turn it off by following these steps:

  • Press Options or My Settings button on your microwave
  • Select option 6 (Demo mode) in the menu
  • Set it to 2 (Off) by pressing 2 or using the dial
  • Press Start or OK

If your user manual does not mention Demo mode, or if your microwave is counting down faster than usual but not heating, visit our Support Center to request service.

If your microwave is a ‘messy boy’ grab my favourite splatter guard. 

 

How to Check the Power Cord, the Outlet, and the Circuit Breaker

Another possible reason why your Samsung microwave runs but doesn’t heat food is because there is a problem with the power supply. To check this, follow these steps:

  • Unplug your microwave from the outlet
  • Plug another appliance into the same outlet and see if it works
  • If not, check your circuit breaker or fuse box and see if any of them are tripped or blown
  • If yes, reset or replace them as needed
  • Plug your microwave back into the outlet and see if it heats food

If your microwave still doesn’t heat food after checking the power supply, move on to the next section.

How to Check the Door Switch, the Fuse, and the Thermostat

The door switch, the fuse, and the thermostat are safety devices that prevent your microwave from overheating or running when the door is open. If any of them are faulty, your microwave will run but not heat food.

To check these components, you’ll need a multimeter (a device that measures voltage, resistance, and current) and some basic tools. You’ll also need to unplug your microwave from the outlet and remove its cover by unscrewing its screws.

Here’s how to check each component:

How to Check the Door Switch

LONYE 3405-001034 Microwave Door Switch Replacement for Samsung LG GE Kenmore Microwave SZM-V16-FD-63 3405-000178 AP4044834 (Normally Open)(Pack of 2)

The door switch is located inside your microwave near where the door latches. It has two wires attached to it.

To check it, follow these steps:

  • Set your multimeter to continuity mode (the symbol that looks like a sound wave)
  • Touch one probe of your multimeter to one terminal of the door switch
  • Touch another probe of your multimeter to another terminal of the door switch
  • Press or release the door latch and see if there is any change
  • If there is no change, the door switch is faulty and needs to be replaced
  • If there is a change, the door switch is working properly and you can move on to the next component

How to Check the Fuse

BOJACK Microwave Fuse 20a Ceramic Fuse 20 Amp 250V Slow-Blow Compatible and Universal Replacement for WB27X10388 and Other Microwaves

The fuse is located inside your microwave near the power cord. It has two wires attached to it.

To check it, follow these steps:

  • Set your multimeter to continuity mode
  • Touch one probe of your multimeter to one terminal of the fuse
  • Touch another probe of your multimeter to another terminal of the fuse
  • See if there is any reading on your multimeter
  • If there is no reading, the fuse is blown and needs to be replaced
  • If there is a reading, the fuse is working properly and you can move on to the next component

How to Check the Thermostat

DE47-20034A Compatible with Samsung Microwave Oven High Limit Thermostat 2079750

The thermostat is located inside your microwave near the magnetron. It has two wires attached to it.

To check it, follow these steps:

  • Set your multimeter to continuity mode
  • Touch one probe of your multimeter to one terminal of the thermostat
  • Touch another probe of your multimeter to another terminal of the thermostat
  • See if there is any reading on your multimeter
  • If there is no reading, the thermostat is tripped and needs to be reset or replaced
  • If there is a reading, the thermostat is working properly and you can move on to the next section

How to Check the Capacitor, the Diode, and the Transformer

The capacitor, the diode, and the transformer are components that help convert the AC power from the outlet into DC power for the magnetron. If any of them are faulty, your microwave will run but not heat food.

To check these components, you’ll need a multimeter and some basic tools. You’ll also need to unplug your microwave from the outlet and remove its cover by unscrewing its screws.

WARNING: The capacitor can store a high voltage even when unplugged. To discharge it safely, use a screwdriver with an insulated handle and touch its blade across both terminals of the capacitor. You may hear a loud pop or see a spark. This is normal.

Here’s how to check each component:

How to Check the Capacitor

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The capacitor is located inside your microwave near the transformer. It has two terminals on it.

To check it, follow these steps:

  • Set your multimeter to resistance mode (the symbol that looks like an ohm)
  • Touch one probe of your multimeter to one terminal of the capacitor
  • Touch another probe of your multimeter to another terminal of the capacitor
  • See if there is any change in the reading on your multimeter
  • If there is no change, or if the reading stays at zero or infinity, the capacitor is faulty and needs to be replaced
  • If there is a change, or if the reading goes from low to high or vice versa, the capacitor is working properly and you can move on to the next component

How to Check the Diode

CL04-12 Microwave High Voltage Diodes Repair Parts 0.5A 12KV Compatible for GE WB27X10930 Samsung DE91-70063D LG 6851W1A002E (Pack of 2 Pcs)

The diode is located inside your microwave near the capacitor. It has two wires attached to it.

If your microwave is a ‘messy boy’ grab my favourite splatter guard. 

 

To check it, follow these steps:

  • Set your multimeter to diode mode (the symbol that looks like an arrow with a line across it)
  • Touch one probe of your multimeter to one wire of the diode
  • Touch another probe of your multimeter to another wire of the diode
  • See if there is any reading on your multimeter
  • If there is a reading in one direction but not in the other, the diode is working properly and you can move on to the next component
  • If there is no reading in either direction, or if there is a reading in both directions, the diode is faulty and needs to be replaced

How to Check the Transformer

High Voltage Transformer DE26-00126B for Samsung Microwave

The transformer is located inside your microwave near the power cord. It has four wires attached to it.

To check it, follow these steps:

  • Set your multimeter to resistance mode
  • Touch one probe of your multimeter to one wire of the primary coil of the transformer (the coil that connects to the power cord)
  • Touch another probe of your multimeter to another wire of the primary coil of the transformer
  • See if there is any reading on your multimeter
  • If there is no reading, or if the reading is very high, the primary coil of the transformer is faulty and needs to be replaced
  • If there is a reading, repeat the same steps for the secondary coil of the transformer (the coil that connects to the capacitor and the diode)
  • If there is no reading, or if the reading is very high, the secondary coil of the transformer is faulty and needs to be replaced
  • If there is a reading, the transformer is working properly and you can move on to the next section

How to Check the Magnetron

OM75P-21-ESGN Microwave Magnetron Compatible with Samsung Microwave ME SMH Series,Microwave Magnetron Replaces Following Parts OM75P-21-ESGN, AP4502427, PS4251316,Passed OEM Test.

The magnetron is located inside your microwave near the thermostat. It has two terminals on it.

To check it, follow these steps:

  • Set your multimeter to resistance mode
  • Touch one probe of your multimeter to one terminal of the magnetron
  • Touch another probe of your multimeter to another terminal of the magnetron
  • See if there is any reading on your multimeter
  • If there is no reading, or if the reading is very low, the magnetron is faulty and needs to be replaced
  • If there is a reading, or if the reading is very high, the magnetron is working properly and you have successfully fixed your Samsung microwave that runs but doesn’t heat food

How to Prevent Your Samsung Microwave from Running But Not Heating Food

Now that you know how to fix your Samsung microwave that runs but doesn’t heat food, you might want to prevent this problem from happening again in the future.

Here are some tips on how to do that:

  • Avoid using metal utensils or containers in your microwave, as they can cause sparks or damage your microwave
  • Avoid overheating your food or running your microwave for too long, as this can cause your microwave to overheat or trip its safety devices
  • Avoid slamming or forcing your microwave door, as this can damage your door switch or latch
  • Clean your microwave regularly and remove any food debris or grease that can block its vents or interfere with its components
  • Use only microwave-safe dishes and containers that are appropriate for your food size and quantity

By following these tips, you can enjoy using your Samsung microwave for a long time without any issues.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Samsung microwaves that run but don’t heat food:

Q: How do I know if my Samsung microwave is still under warranty?

A: You can check if your Samsung microwave is still under warranty by visiting this website and entering your model number and serial number. You can also contact Samsung customer service at 1-800-SAMSUNG (726-7864) for more information.

Q: How much does it cost to replace a magnetron in a Samsung microwave?

A: The cost of replacing a magnetron in a Samsung microwave depends on several factors, such as the model of your microwave, the availability of parts, and the labor charges of your technician. On average, it can cost anywhere from $100 to $300.

Q: Can I replace a magnetron in a Samsung microwave myself?

A: Replacing a magnetron in a Samsung microwave requires some technical skills and tools, as well as safety precautions. It is not recommended for beginners or amateurs. If you are not confident or experienced enough, it is better to hire a professional technician to do it for you.

Q: How long does a Samsung microwave last?

A: The lifespan of a Samsung microwave depends on several factors, such as how often you use it, how well you maintain it, and how lucky you are. On average, a Samsung microwave can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years.

Q: What are some signs that my Samsung microwave needs to be replaced?

A: Some signs that your Samsung microwave needs to be replaced are:

  • It makes loud or unusual noises
  • It sparks or smokes
  • It leaks or emits bad odors
  • It has cracks or dents on its body or door
  • It has frequent or recurring problems that are not fixed by troubleshooting

If you notice any of these signs, it might be time to say goodbye to your Samsung microwave and get a new one.

If your microwave is a ‘messy boy’ grab my favourite splatter guard. 

 

Conclusion

I hope you found this blog post helpful and informative. If you have a Samsung microwave that runs but doesn’t heat food, you now know how to fix it yourself or when to call for professional help.

You also learned how to prevent this problem from happening again by following some simple tips on how to use and maintain your Samsung microwave properly.

If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. I’d love to hear from you!

And if you liked this blog post, please share it with your friends and family who might also have a Samsung microwave that runs but doesn’t heat food.

Thank you for reading and happy microwaving!

Meet

Dale

Dale is the founder and appliance expert behind PressToCook.com. He is a former restaurant manager who has spent years behind the scenes using just about every kitchen appliance imaginable.

He founded PressToCook.com to debunk the myths around appliances and show home cooks how to truly harness the power of their gadgets to whip up incredible dishes easily and efficiently.

Dale is on a mission to prove that kitchen appliances should be celebrated, not feared, and he can’t wait to share his real-world tips and tricks with you!
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