Maytag Microwaves

Over-the-range microwaves do more than heat leftovers. They sit above the stove, so they also light the cooktop, move steam and smoke, and in many Bay Area kitchens they stand in for a hood. When one fails, you can lose all of those jobs together. Our Maytag microwave repair visits diagnose the microwave and the way it is mounted and vented before we recommend a repair, and you receive a written estimate first.

The microwaves in our lineup

Three over-the-range Maytag models are in our reference list.

• MMV1175JZ: over-the-range, 1.7 cu ft.
• MMV4207JZ: over-the-range, 1.9 cu ft with Dual Crisp.
• MMV6190FZ: over-the-range, 1.9 cu ft with convection.

Finding the label

The model label is usually inside the microwave door frame or along the edge of the cavity opening. Open the door, look around the frame, and photograph the whole line. Do not take the microwave off its mounting to look.

Why microwaves fail

Runs but does not heat

Lights, fan and display can all work while the heating system does not. That is a different fault from a dead unit, and our article on a microwave that is not heating separates the possibilities.

Door and switch trouble

A microwave will not run unless its door switches confirm the door is shut. A misaligned door, worn latch or switch fault can leave the unit unresponsive.

Vent fan and light

The fan beneath the unit and its lamp are used daily. Grease buildup on the grease filters can slow airflow, and switches or motors can fail.

Keypad and display problems

Keys that stick, a blank display or a touchpad that does not register input suggest the user interface or its connection to the board.

Codes in our reference list

Examples with stated meanings: E11 means the gas sensor reported a problem to the control board. E21 means the thermal sensor circuit reported open. E61 refers to an open oven sensor circuit. F2H1 points toward the vent fan and light switch on the lower left front side panel, and F3H refers to the humidity thermistor. F9 mentions the appliance control board, relay control board or wiring. Connected-appliance Wi-Fi codes such as FC E1 concern the connection, not heating. A few codes list only reset or service steps with no cause, and we leave them to the diagnosis.

Owner checks from the outside

1. Write down the code and the moment it appeared.
2. Make sure the plug sits fully in the outlet inside the cabinet above, if you can see it without moving anything, and check the breaker.
3. Close the door firmly and wipe the door seal area.
4. Clean the grease filters under the unit if they are removable and the fan seems weak.
5. Try one controlled power reset.

Never open the case. A microwave stores energy inside, and only a technician should work there. A burning smell or sparks means the breaker goes off.

Mounting and ducting

An over-the-range unit hangs from a mounting bracket and relies on either ducting to the outside or recirculation through a filter. In older San Francisco buildings, vent paths through a wall or roof can be long and awkward, which affects fan performance and steam control. The weight of the unit, and the cabinet above it, make removal a two-person task.

Before you book

Many owners find that a microwave which looks dead is actually a tripped breaker, a loose plug or a door that is not quite latched, so a quick look at those saves a visit. A fan that has gone quiet but still lights the stove is a different complaint from one that will not start at all, and it helps to say which you have. Send the model label, the code if any, and a short description. For a range below the microwave, see Maytag ranges. Our microwave repair page describes the visit, and no repair starts without your approval.

Frequently asked questions