Your Guide to Whirlpool Microwave Replacement Parts

Whirlpool microwaves are highly rated and praised for their reliability. However, no microwave is indestructible; parts and components can break occasionally.

Fortunately, when things do go wrong, you can usually find genuine Whirlpool microwave replacement parts available to buy online or in-store so you can fix the issue.

However, it’s not possible to replace every part of a microwave yourself; in some cases, you will need to call in an appliance repair technician to perform the repair safely.

Most Commonly Replaced Parts in Whirlpool Microwaves

Some parts of a Whirlpool microwave tend to need replacing more often than others, but that doesn’t mean you should expect them to break. Many Whirlpool microwaves never require any repairs, especially those which are kept well-maintained and clean.

Here are some of the more commonly bought replacement parts for Whirlpool microwaves:

Light Bulbs and Sockets

Exterior and interior microwave light bulbs are some of the most commonly bought Whirlpool replacement parts. Once replaced, a new bulb should last for many years.

However, if a new bulb doesn’t fix the issue, the light socket may be corroded and need replacing too.

Turntable Tray

The turntable is the round plate that sits at the base of the cooking cavity and spins. It’s what you place your microwave-safe containers on when you are heating or reheating food and beverages.

This key component of a microwave can sometimes crack or break if dropped or knocked since they are typically made of glass. Thankfully, replacing a broken turntable is as simple as lifting the old, broken one out, and laying the new one in.

Turntable Motor

The turntable motor spins the turntable. So, if your turntable is no longer spinning, it could be that the motor is faulty and needs replacing.

For those competent in DIY, replacing the turntable motor should be a relatively straightforward task. But if you’re not confident you can do it, it’s better to leave it to the professionals.

Charcoal Filter

A charcoal filter removes grease and odors from the air before it is recirculated back into the kitchen by the microwave’s vent. Unlike a grease filter, a charcoal filter cannot be cleaned. It should therefore be replaced every six months, making it a more commonly bought replacement part.

Grease Filter

The grease filter helps to trap grease and debris so it doesn’t enter the venting system. It should be cleaned monthly to prevent it from becoming clogged, which can hinder the exhaust fan.

However, sometimes the grease filter can break and will need to be replaced with a new one. Cleaning and replacing the grease filter is simple and can be done by yourself.

Door Switch

The door switch ensures that the microwave only runs when the door is closed, for safety. If the door switch becomes faulty, the microwave may cut off after a few seconds or it may not run at all. In this case, the door switch will need to be replaced.

Microwave door switches are one of the more commonly bought replacement parts. You can replace the door switch yourself if you’re comfortable with appliance repairs and follow safety precautions. If not, hire a professional.

Door Handle

The door handle on Whirlpool microwaves can break or crack over time due to normal wear and tear. Whether your microwave has a plastic or stainless steel door handle, you can easily purchase a replacement online and fit it yourself.

Waveguide Cover

The waveguide cover shields the opening where the microwaves enter the cooking cavity. It protects the magnetron and waveguide from food splatters, but it can become damaged over time and need replacing.

Replacing it is relatively straightforward and can be done yourself since it’s simply a thin, flat piece of plastic that is held in place by a couple of screws.

Magnetron

The magnetron is the component that generates the microwaves that cook your food. If it becomes faulty, the microwave may run but it won’t heat your food.

Both the removal and improper installation of a magnetron can be dangerous, with risks of electrocution or microwave radiation leakage. Therefore, it is strongly advised not to try replacing it yourself, and instead call in a qualified professional to do it safely.

Cooling Fan

As the name suggests, the cooling fan keeps your microwave cool, preventing overheating which could damage your appliance. If the cooling fan breaks, it can cause the thermal fuse to blow due to overheating, meaning you’ll have to replace that component too.

Replacement cooling fans can be bought and fitted yourself. However, it’s better to hire an expert if you’re not comfortable or lack appliance repair experience.

Thermal Fuse

The thermal fuse is a safety device that cuts off power to the microwave if it overheats. Once the thermal fuse is blown, it won’t run at all until it is replaced.

However, replacing it yourself can be dangerous, so it’s best to have a professional do it for you unless you are very experienced in appliance repairs and know how to do them safely.

An Important Note on Safety

Since microwave ovens have the potential to leak microwaves—a form of electromagnetic radiation—it’s recommended to call in a professional to check your microwave for any leaks after making repairs, before you begin using it again.

It’s also vital that you follow safety precautions if attempting to carry out any microwave repairs yourself, including unplugging the appliance before disassembling it.

You should also be aware that there is a high-voltage capacitor inside the microwave that can hold a dangerous electrical charge, even when the appliance is unplugged. That’s why it’s important not to attempt repairs yourself that will bring you into contact with the capacitor, including: