Microwave won't turn on or the door won't close? Safe steps
A dead microwave is often a breaker in the fuse box or a door that isn't closed, because the microwave won't run without the latches engaged. Never open it up.
- Most common cause
- power, door or child lock
- Time
- 5–15 minutes
- Repair shop
- 200–610 zł
Never remove the microwave's casing. The high-voltage capacitor holds a charge even after unplugging and can kill. Don't use a microwave with a damaged door, hinges or door seal, because it may leak radiation.
Step by step
Check the socket and breaker
Plug another appliance into the socket and check the breaker in the fuse box. Microwaves often trip the breaker when a kettle runs on the same circuit.
Clean the door latches
Grease and food on the latches and the door edge make it hard to close. Wipe them with a damp cloth.
Check the door closes
Close the door and listen for a click. If the door springs back or is crooked, don't use the microwave. A repair shop replaces a damaged hinge or latch.
Turn off the child lock
A padlock or the word “Lock” on the display means the lock is on. It's usually turned off by holding Stop or Cancel for 3–5 seconds. You'll find the combination in the manual.
Unplug the microwave for a few minutes
Pull the plug for 5 minutes. This resets the electronics after a power surge.
- the microwave trips the breaker as soon as you turn it on
- the door is crooked, cracked or won't stay shut
- you smell burning or it sparks inside
- the display is dead with a working socket
How much does a repair shop charge?
| Door latch or microswitch replacement | 200–410 zł |
| Internal fuse replacement | 160–340 zł |
| Magnetron replacement | 340–610 zł |
| New microwave | 410–950 zł |
Typical prices at independent repair shops in Poland, October 2026. Authorised service centres and big cities can be more expensive.
Repair or buy new?
Microwaves are cheap, so a bigger repair often costs almost as much as a new one. A small door or fuse repair on a more expensive built-in model usually pays off.
Check whether repairing your microwave pays off
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Open the calculator →FAQ
Why won't my microwave turn on at all?
Most often because of the breaker in the fuse box, a blown internal fuse or a damaged door microswitch.
Can I use a microwave with a crooked door?
No. A damaged door can leak radiation. Take it to a repair shop.
Can I replace the microwave fuse myself?
Don't. It means opening the casing, and inside is a dangerous high-voltage capacitor.