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Caloric Microwave is Sparking or Arcing

The part(s) or condition(s) listed below for the symptom Microwave is sparking or arcing are ordered from most likely to least likely to occur. Check or test each item, starting with the items at the top of the page.

Most Frequent Causes for Microwave is sparking or arcing

For the most accurate results, enter your model number.


Cause 1Waveguide Cover

The waveguide cover might be damaged and shorting out. Try removing the waveguide cover and see if the problem resolves. If the waveguide cover is burnt or will not stay in place, replace it.

Parts
Cause 2Magnetron

If the microwave is sparking or arcing behind the waveguide cover in the oven cavity, you will likely see smoke or there will be a burning smell. The appliance's magnetron is one of the components that could be damaged and causing the sparking or arcing. Inspect the magnetron for burn marks or damage and replace if necessary.

Parts
Cause 3Shelf Support

Shelf Support

Parts
Cause 4Paint

The paint on the interior of the microwave might be chipped. If the paint is chipped, the interior metal will be exposed, causing the microwave to spark or arc. Check the interior of the microwave for any spots where the paint has chipped away. If there are any damaged spots, touch them up with microwave oven paint.

Parts
Cause 5Rack Support

The paint on one of the rack supports might be chipped. Inspect the rack supports for any spots where the paint has chipped. If there are any damaged spots, repaint them with microwave-safe paint. If the rack support is burnt, replace it.

Parts
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