Magic Chef
Short Circuit or Overcurrent on Startup
Microwave trips the household circuit breaker or blows a fuse when starting a cook cycle.
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Shorted high-voltage capacitor, Shorted high-voltage diode, Shorted magnetron, Shorted line filter or power cord
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety: Repeated tripping indicates a serious electrical fault. Unplug the microwave and do not continue resetting the breaker without repair.
User-level checks:
- Confirm the microwave is on a dedicated circuit of appropriate amperage as recommended by Magic Chef.
- Inspect the power cord for visible damage or burns.
Technician-level checks:
- Remove the outer cabinet and inspect for burnt components or wiring.
- Discharge the high-voltage capacitor safely.
- Test the capacitor, diode, and magnetron for shorts using a multimeter.
- Inspect the line filter and wiring at the power entry for shorts to chassis.
Corrective actions:
- Replace any shorted high-voltage component with Magic Chef-approved parts.
- Repair or replace damaged wiring or line filter.
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Repair Difficulty
Professional Required
5/5
Required Part
High-Voltage Capacitor
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