Whirlpool Microwave Making Loud Humming Noise: Easy Steps to Fix

You open your microwave, ready to heat your coffee, and suddenly, it starts humming like a small jet engine. Your kitchen shakes slightly, and your nerves tingle. That loud noise is annoying, right? Maybe it even scares you a little. Don’t worry, it’s not just you. That sound means something inside your Whirlpool microwave needs attention. Let’s figure it out together, and maybe even save your microwave before it’s too late.

How to Handle Your Whirlpool Microwave Humming Loudly

Check the Turntable and Roller Ring

Sometimes the loud humming comes from something as simple as a misaligned turntable. Your microwave’s glass plate spins on a roller ring. If it’s out of place, it rubs against the edges or motor, causing vibrations. First, remove the plate and roller, clean them, and check for cracks or damage. Even a small chip can make the humming worse.

Next, place the roller ring back carefully. Make sure it sits evenly and spins freely. Then, put the glass plate back on top. Turn on the microwave empty for a few seconds. If the hum decreases or stops, it was just a misalignment. Keep an eye on it for a few uses to ensure it stays quiet.

Sometimes grease or food particles stick under the turntable. These small things can add friction, which makes the motor work harder. Cleaning regularly can prevent the noise from coming back. Use a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the surface.

• Remove and inspect turntable and roller ring
• Clean thoroughly with mild soap
• Check for cracks or damage
• Replace if needed to stop noise

Inspect the Microwave Magnetron

The magnetron is the part that creates the microwaves to heat your food. When it’s failing, it can cause a loud humming sound. First, unplug the microwave for safety. Then, check the magnetron for visible damage or signs of burning. A burnt smell is also a clue that it needs attention.

Replacing a magnetron is not easy and often requires a professional. Attempting it yourself without knowledge can be dangerous. If the humming started gradually, the magnetron might be wearing out. Sometimes, a humming noise is the only warning before total failure.

Regularly checking your magnetron can save time and prevent further damage. Ensure your microwave isn’t overheating during normal use, which can stress this part. Avoid running the microwave empty for long periods. Heat causes stress that shortens magnetron life.

• Check for visible damage or burn marks
• Smell for unusual burnt odors
• Avoid running empty microwave
• Contact professional if magnetron seems faulty

Examine the Cooling Fan

The cooling fan is essential to keep your microwave from overheating. When the fan is blocked or dusty, it can produce a loud hum. Start by unplugging the microwave and locating the fan near the back or inside panels. Dust or crumbs can make it noisy.

Clean the fan blades gently with a soft brush. Avoid bending them, as even a small deformation can increase noise. After cleaning, manually spin the fan to ensure it moves freely. A smooth spin usually solves the humming issue immediately.

Sometimes the fan motor itself can wear out. If cleaning doesn’t help, the motor may need replacing. This is another case where professional help is safest. A failing fan not only makes noise but can lead to overheating, which damages the magnetron and other parts.

• Locate and inspect cooling fan
• Remove dust or debris carefully
• Spin blades manually to check movement
• Replace motor if cleaning does not stop noise

Look at the Waveguide Cover

The waveguide cover directs microwave energy into the oven cavity. If it gets dirty or damaged, it can create a humming or buzzing sound. Check the cover for grease, food splashes, or cracks. A burnt or melted cover definitely needs replacement.

Remove the cover carefully, clean it with warm water and mild soap, and let it dry completely. If the hum continues, try running the microwave without the cover briefly to see if the sound stops. This will confirm if the waveguide is the source.

Waveguide covers are inexpensive and easy to replace. Keeping it clean prevents sparks and uneven heating. Inspect it regularly after cooking messy foods. A small maintenance routine can save bigger problems later.

• Inspect waveguide cover for damage
• Clean with mild soap and water
• Replace if burnt or cracked
• Keep routine checks after messy cooking

Check the High Voltage Diode

The high voltage diode works with the capacitor to power the magnetron. A faulty diode can make your microwave hum loudly. First, unplug the microwave. Locate the diode near the magnetron. Be careful, it stores electricity and can shock you.

Check for burn marks or cracks. Sometimes a multimeter is needed to test the diode’s functionality. If it fails the test, replacing it usually stops the humming immediately. Diode replacement is not too difficult for a careful person, but safety is crucial.

A humming sound combined with poor heating often points to a bad diode. Never attempt to touch the capacitor directly; it holds a dangerous charge even when unplugged. Safety gloves and a proper test tool help avoid accidents.

• Inspect diode for cracks or burns
• Test with multimeter if possible
• Replace faulty diode to stop hum
• Handle capacitor carefully to avoid shocks

Examine the Drive Motor

The drive motor turns the turntable. When it wears out, it can make humming or grinding sounds. To check, unplug the microwave and remove the turntable. Spin the motor manually. Resistance or uneven motion shows it may be failing.

Drive motors can sometimes be lubricated if they are not too old. Use a tiny amount of proper oil on the shaft. If humming persists after lubrication, replacement is the only solution. A failing motor not only hums but can stop the turntable, causing uneven heating.

Check wiring connections to the motor as well. Loose wires can create vibrations and extra noise. Ensuring a solid electrical connection can solve minor humming without replacing parts. Regular inspection keeps your microwave running smoothly.

• Remove turntable and inspect motor
• Check for resistance or uneven spin
• Lubricate or replace if needed
• Secure wiring connections

A loud humming Whirlpool microwave is frustrating, but usually, the fix is simpler than it seems. By checking parts like the turntable, magnetron, fan, waveguide, diode, and motor, you can identify the problem quickly. Regular cleaning and maintenance reduce noise and extend the life of your microwave. Pay attention to small changes in sound; it’s your microwave telling you it needs care.

Do Whirlpool microwaves make loud noises often?

Yes, they can, especially if parts are dirty or misaligned. Over time, the motor, fan, or magnetron can wear, causing humming. Cleaning and maintenance reduce noise.

A microwave hums when electrical parts work harder than normal. Dust, grease, and loose parts increase resistance, making the motor or fan strain. Unusual hums, louder than the usual background sound, indicate a problem that should be checked promptly.

Some humming is normal, like a soft, steady buzz during cooking. But if it sounds like a jet engine or rattles the kitchen, action is required. Ignoring it may damage the microwave further, increasing repair costs.

Regular inspection helps. Remove the turntable, clean the roller ring, inspect the fan, waveguide, and motor. Check for cracks or burn marks. When in doubt, professional service ensures safety and prevents further damage.

Can a loud humming microwave be dangerous?

Yes, a loud humming microwave can be dangerous if ignored. Faulty components like the magnetron or high voltage diode can overheat. This may cause sparks or electrical hazards.

Always unplug your microwave before inspecting. Avoid touching capacitors, as they store electricity even when unplugged. Sparks or unusual smells mean you should stop using it immediately.

Maintaining a clean microwave reduces risks. Wipe spills, check the turntable and fan, and inspect waveguide covers. Replacing damaged parts promptly prevents accidents.

A professional check is safest for humming combined with poor heating. Safety precautions protect both you and your home from potential fire or electric shock.

Do professional repairs fix humming sounds reliably?

Yes, professional repairs often solve loud humming issues effectively. Technicians can safely replace components like the magnetron, diode, or motor.

They have proper tools and training, ensuring safety while diagnosing the real cause. Attempting DIY repairs on high-voltage parts can be risky. Professionals also test the microwave after repair to ensure proper operation and quiet performance.

Regular maintenance by professionals extends the life of your microwave. Even minor inspections catch early signs of wear, preventing humming, overheating, and potential breakdowns. Professionals offer peace of mind and protect your investment.

Can cleaning really stop the humming?

Yes, cleaning can stop humming if the cause is dirt or misalignment. Dust, grease, and food particles can block fans or interfere with the turntable.

Use warm water and mild soap on the turntable, roller, and waveguide cover. Gently clean fan blades. Avoid harsh chemicals or soaking parts in water.

After cleaning, reassemble everything carefully. Run the microwave briefly to check if noise decreases. Regular cleaning prevents many common humming problems and keeps your appliance running smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it normal for Whirlpool microwaves to hum a little?

A soft, steady hum is normal and comes from the magnetron generating microwaves. This sound should not shake your kitchen.

Can a loud humming microwave damage food?

Yes, uneven spinning caused by a noisy motor or turntable can heat food unevenly, leaving cold spots.

Do I need a professional for every humming issue?

No, minor humming from dirt or misalignment can be fixed at home. Only electrical component failures need professionals.

Is it safe to run the microwave empty to check noise?

Yes, briefly running empty is safe for testing alignment or cleaning effects. Do not run it for long periods.

Can a faulty cooling fan cause overheating?

Yes, a worn or blocked fan can make the microwave overheat, damaging the magnetron or motor.

Do microwaves lose power when humming loudly?

Yes, humming can indicate stress in components like the magnetron, reducing heating efficiency.

Can replacing a waveguide cover stop humming?

Yes, a damaged or dirty waveguide cover can cause unusual noise and uneven heating.

Is it expensive to fix a humming Whirlpool microwave?

Minor fixes like cleaning or realignment are cheap. Component replacements vary but are often less than buying a new unit.