No more microwave means no more quick popcorn at night. It means no reheating leftovers with ease. And you can forget about those single-size convenience meals. They take way too long in the oven.
So, let’s face it, we are a society of quick fixes and immediate gratification. However, when the unit bites the dust, you’ll be asking whether you should repair or replace your microwave, and with good reason.
Your microwave may be easy to repair, but they are often not worth the service call cost. Really, it all depends on the unit you have installed in your kitchen. In the following paragraphs, Atlanta Appliance Services will outline when to repair or replace your microwave.
Once you have determined the worth of the repair or replacement, call your local appliance repair service to help you repair the old or install the new. And if you are in Loganville, Georgia, or the surrounding areas, contact Atlanta Appliance Services.
Ask Yourself These Questions
Determining whether to repair or replace your microwave takes a bit of honest thinking. You see, not all microwaves hold their worth. So, think about the following questions before making your ultimate choice on what to do with that microwave.
- First, find out if the device is under warranty. If so, then the choice will be made by the manufacturer.
- What did the microwave cost when it was originally purchased? Sometimes you won’t know the original cost right off. But you can usually do an internet search for the worth of your model.
- Do you know the age of the unit? Perhaps the microwave was already installed when you purchased the home. Maybe it has been in the house so long; there are years of advancements in the field you cannot take advantage of. On the other hand, perhaps you just got the thing!
- What part needs repair on the device? Indeed, there are simple repairs, like a handle that fell off, and there are more complex like the unit’s motherboard.
Once you have answered these questions for yourself, you can move on to learning more about repair or replacement.
A Microwave Repair
Yes, there are times when repairing the microwave is the best choice. That is why we have pulled together the following instances when it may be advisable to repair rather than install a new unit. Here is what we mean.
- Built-in or over the stove units may be best to be repaired. You see, when the microwave is installed over the range, it is likely serving as your exhaust and may be tied into the oven system too. Then again, a built-in has walls or cabinets custom made to the device’s size. And they may not even make that size anymore. Then you would have a cabinet or wall repair as well as a new installation to pay for.
- Sometimes when a microwave doesn’t startup, it is due to a broken door latch. That is, in fact, part of the safety design. And it is an easy fix that may be worth repairing.
- If the touchpad is… not so touchy… you may need a replacement of the membrane outside of the unit. However, suppose the touchpad is malfunctioning due to the control panel. In that case, you have a much more difficult repair on your hands. It may not be worth the struggle and the cost.
- If you have a crack in the glass on your microwave, you may think it is done-for. But replacing the glass is an easy repair if the new glass is readily available.
- When the turntable doesn’t turn, it goes against the very name of the part! But never fear; this is a simple repair in most cases. But if your tech determines it is a faulty drive motor, that tech may recommend a replacement.
- A super noisy microwave may seem like a cause for concern. If you can listen and determine where the sound is coming from, you may e able to get a simple repair. However, if you cannot determine where the noise originates, call a repair tech to help you diagnose the issue.
The Cost of Repair
As you probably know, several factors go into determining the quote for appliance repairs. But some typical factors help determine the cost and, ultimately, your decision. At Atlanta Appliance Services, we found Angi’s List to have a simple list of average prices for both parts and labor.
- Diode: $55 to $125
- Door: $150 to $400
- Glass Tray: $80 to $160
- Handle: $80 to $180
- Light Bulb: $55 to $120
- Magnetron: $100 to $200
- Power Cord: $60 to $190
- Turntable Motor: $65 to $200
That said, prices are always subject to the city you live in and the part’s cost at the time of your repair. You can trust the prices quoted by your local technician. At Atlanta Appliance Services, we won’t waste your time or money on needless repairs or unnecessary replacements.
It is also good to note that while choosing repair or replacement, new microwaves range in price from $50 to over $2,000. So, let’s dive into the instances where replacement is the best option.
Microwave Replacement
To everything, there is a season, and the season may be over for your microwave. After all, microwaves come in various price points, from the cheaply made to high-tech instruments. Here is what we suggest when the time has come to replace the microwave.
- Is your microwave more than ten years old? If so, it is time to move on. Although it has served you well, there are probably many technological improvements you are missing out on by keeping the old one.
- Smoking, burning, and sparking are all signs of extreme danger. No one wants an electrical fire so that this unit may be out! If you notice any of these, you are best to unplug the unit and call a professional.
- If your food has not been turning outright, the popcorn is not popping, and the water is not heating… it may be time for a replacement.
- Loud noise coming from your microwave could indicate a problem with the moving parts or simply a misalignment inside. Open the door and see if there is an apparent reason for the sounds. If not, shut it off and call a pro. You may need a new machine.
- Do you know why we can allow radiation to cookout food? It is because of the door that it keeps it all in. If that door is not closing, is cracked, or the like, radiation can escape. Then it is definitely time for a new microwave.
- The keypad on your microwave can be a simple fix or the death of a machine. Your local repair technician can let you know. If the membrane can be replaced, that is simple. But if it is the drive motor malfunctioning, forget it and go shopping for a new one.
To Repair or Replace Your Microwave, Call on Atlanta Appliance Services
Now for the good news. It doesn’t matter which way you choose. Atlanta Appliance Services has you covered for repair or replacement.
If your microwave is under warranty, we can help.
If a repair is needed, we can do that.
When the time has come, and the microwave must go…
Atlanta Appliance Services is on the job. You can count on our team for a fair quote and an honest opinion on repairing or replacing it.