fix or scrap microwave?

17 years ago

I have a 9 year old (wow time flies), built in Whirlpool Gold microwave that just stopped working. No fan, no lights, no clock, no nothing. I tested that there is power at the outlet and I popped the fuse it test ok by 2 different electronics places. I was about to place a service call and just got to wondering what are the odds that it's fixable and will it be worthwhile vs. getting a new unit? Any opinions?

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Comments (6)

llaatt22
17 years ago
Before going the repair route, it might be better to see what is available in new replacement units. Nine years is pretty long in the tooth.

Here is a link that might be useful: Fixit site
wa8b
17 years ago
Consumers Reports recommends that it's usually more cost effective to replace an appliance more than 8 years old than to repair it. In your case, however, that might depend on whether or not you can get a replacement appliance with the same dimensions and specs as your current model.
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viva99
17 years ago
I'm sure the above posters are right, but isn't it disheartening how willing we are to dump stuff and buy new (myself included)? Such a win-win for manufacturers -- skimp on the quality, and you'll sell that much more. Such a loss for everyone else -- skilled laborers, the environment, consumers...

Guess that's why I've stuck with my own crappy microwave for so long. (The LED display stopped working 5 years ago, at 1 year old). Just to spite the people who make these things. And in your case I'd probably try to get the thing repaired, for the same reason. Even though I know it's not the practical choice. Unless it's what everybody did. (I can dream...)
weedmeister
17 years ago
dsharp: the reality is that the repairs usually cost more than the device is worth. Yours sounds like a control board which could be fairly expensive. Unless you can do more internal checking yourself, you'll probably be better off replacing it.
maryland_irisman
17 years ago
The maximum life cycle for appliances is 10 years. I also get discouraged when I have to be a part of this "throw away world". weedmeister is right so unless you know how to check and replace the magnetron (can cost as much as the microwave for an older one) control panel or other parts, it's time to buy a new one as inexpensive as they are. VIVA99...you made me laugh!!! I thought I was the only who would not worry about an LCD not working!!!
hull-o
17 years ago
I have a GE Dual Wave microwave that just stopped working. No noise, no lights, no nothing. I called a number of repair people. Most would not even make a service call to look at the problem. They all said that microwaves are "cheap" and repairing it would be more expensive. Although I do not like living in a "throw away" world, my microwave is 20+ years old. My advice, get a new one and enjoy it!