Microwave parts sources
This is not specifically an RV question, but there have been threads about simple repairs to a non-functioning microwave and how fixing would be cheaper than buying new. This might be of help to some...
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mrgreetis wrote:
This is not specifically an RV question, but there have been threads about simple repairs to a non-functioning microwave and how fixing would be cheaper than buying new. This might be of help to someone else in the future.
In our S&B I have an inexpensive Emerson microwave, bought at Walmart probably 8 years ago. It recently stopped working - timer works, no rotation, no heating. I took off the cover, checked the door switches and found a bad one. Just replace the microswitch; simple, right? Part is no longer available at appliance repair shops through their part catalogs. Also out of stock on amazon. Just doing a Google search brings up AliBaba (china) where I can order (minimum of 200 or 1000). I did find ereplacementparts.com, but they don't have a listing for my switch.
Are there any other sources for these switches? They look pretty generic, and they're relatively cheap, but buying one "just to see if it works" isn't very frugal on retirement income. Thanks in advance for any input.
Mike
Sorry, as a electronics repair tech of too many years I would recommend just junking the microwave..
While there may be similar looking microswitches only the CORRECT DIRECT replacement door switch should be used..
This IS a safety item, that door switch is there to protect YOU the user from microwave radiation..
Using the factory specified part is the only way to ensure the switch is in the correct place and has the correct on/off action.. Any other switch may not have the correct fit or action which would leave you possibly exposed to microwave RF if the switch doesn't act quick enough..
Microwaves are dirt cheap, your life.. Not so much..
$40 will easily buy a NEW microwave with a warranty.. If $40 is going to break your bank then you may want to rethink the RV/camping thing..
There is a place and time for being cheap and DIY, just not really a good idea with microwaves..
Even myself, I have repaired TVs, stereos, sat systems, computers, power supplies and plenty of other items that can have hazards.. I don't bother with microwaves.. most parts are hard to find and when you do find them they are expensive..
