Tower Overheating Component or Cavity Contamination

Microwave emits a strong burning or electrical smell during or after operation.

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.

Possible Causes

Burning food residue, overheated wiring, failing magnetron, failing high-voltage transformer, burnt waveguide cover

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Unplug the microwave immediately if you smell strong burning or see smoke.

Steps:

1. Inspect interior: Look for burnt food, splatter, or melted plastic. Clean thoroughly with mild detergent and water.
2. Check waveguide cover: Inspect for burn marks or charring. Replace if damaged.
3. Test briefly: After cleaning and replacing any burnt covers, run the microwave with a cup of water for 30–60 seconds and monitor for smell.

Advanced:

If the smell is electrical (sharp, acrid) and persists, inspect internal components (magnetron, transformer, wiring) for overheating or burning. Replace any damaged parts.

Repair Difficulty

Hard 4/5

Required Part

Waveguide Cover

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