What is actually happening
Everything you can see and hear on a microwave is driven separately from the part that actually heats. So a microwave can look completely healthy while producing no microwave energy at all, which is why this fault is so confusing from the outside. The parts involved hold a lethal charge even when unplugged, and this is genuinely not one to open up.
The usual causes
- A failed magnetron
- A failed high-voltage diode or capacitor
- A blown high-voltage fuse
- A failed door interlock switch cutting the magnetron circuit
What you can safely check yourself
Work through these in order. Anything past this point — panels off, testing parts, anything to do with the wiring — is an engineer's job, and not one to attempt with the appliance plugged in.
- Heat a mug of water for one minute — no temperature change at all confirms it, rather than guessing from a meal
- Never open a microwave case: the capacitor can hold a lethal charge long after it is unplugged
- On older or cheaper models, ask for the repair cost before committing — replacement is sometimes the better answer, and we will tell you so
Still not heating the food?
Most of these need an engineer once the checks above are done. £66 including VAT for an engineer to come out and diagnose it, or £84 in total including VAT if it is put right on the visit and no parts are needed. Any parts needed are quoted on site before we fit them — you decide. Every repair carries a 90-day workmanship guarantee.
Local engineers covering Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Leicestershire — same and next-day appointments, and the person who comes out is one of ours, not a subcontractor.
Call 0115 648 0929 Book online — postcode and number is all we need
Common questions
Why is my microwave not heating the food?
The microwave runs normally — light on, turntable turning, fan going — but the food stays cold. Everything you can see and hear on a microwave is driven separately from the part that actually heats. So a microwave can look completely healthy while producing no microwave energy at all, which is why this fault is so confusing from the outside. The parts involved hold a lethal charge even when unplugged, and this is genuinely not one to open up.
Can I fix a microwave not heating the food myself?
Heat a mug of water for one minute — no temperature change at all confirms it, rather than guessing from a meal. Never open a microwave case: the capacitor can hold a lethal charge long after it is unplugged. On older or cheaper models, ask for the repair cost before committing — replacement is sometimes the better answer, and we will tell you so. Beyond those checks this one normally needs an engineer.
How much does it cost to repair a microwave not heating the food?
£66 including VAT for an engineer to come out and diagnose it, or £84 in total including VAT if it is put right on the visit and no parts are needed. Any parts needed are quoted on site before we fit them — you decide. Every repair carries a 90-day workmanship guarantee.