Chosen Solution
When I started cooking with my microwave (Whirlpool model), I heard a loud electric popping sound but it continued to run and cooked my food just fine. I thought it might be a one-off occurrence, but it happened again later. I suspect it has something to do with the capacitor discharging itself when the microwave turns on, but when I opened it up I didn’t see any burn marks or other indications of what might be causing it. Any ideas?
The problem turned out to be a fried high voltage diode. The design of this microwave is such that greasy air is drawn through the innards when the venting fan is used, causing a buildup of oily crud on the electronic components inside. The diode was also touching another wire, which might have caused it to short. In any case, you can order and replace the diode easily and cheaply. Be sure to unplug the microwave and let it sit for a few days to make sure the capacitor is discharged first.
Cause 1 Magnetron The magnetron uses high voltage, high current DC power to generate the microwave frequency that cooks the food. Under normal circumstances, the magnetron emits a low hum. However, if the magnetron is damaged or nearly burned out, it may begin emitting high-pitched sounds or growling noises. If the magnetron is noisy, this indicates that the magnetron is nearing the end of its life or might be defective. A defective high-voltage diode can also cause the magnetron to be loud. Before replacing the magnetron, first test the high voltage diode. If the diode is not defective, replace the magnetron. (Warning: The microwave oven can store a lethal amount of electricity in its high voltage capacitor, even after the microwave oven has been unplugged. Due to the high running voltage and the potential for electric shock, it is extremely dangerous to replace the electronic components in a microwave. Only a licensed technician should replace the magnetron.)
I believe it’s cockroaches I don’t think it is a coincidence that all three of my microwaves or sound like they’re shooting at me. the last one I haven’t even had a month. I also see a blue Flash come from the back of it when you hear the loud pop.
