Why My Microwave Keeps Tripping The Breaker?

If your microwave keeps tripping the breaker, it could be due to a number of reasons. Why microwave keeps tripping the breaker. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most common causes of tripped breakers and what you can do to prevent them. 

We’ll also provide tips for troubleshooting the issue if it arises. So, if you’re having trouble with your microwave, keep reading!

Why is the microwave keeps tripping the breaker?

1. The circuit breaker is overloaded.

One possible reason why your microwave keeps tripping the breaker is that the circuit breaker is overloaded. This can happen if there are too many appliances or devices plugged into the same circuit, or if the circuit is not able to handle the amount of power that the microwave requires. If this is the case, you will need to have a licensed electrician add a new circuit or rewire the existing one to accommodate the additional load.

2. A short circuit in the microwave.

A microwave oven uses high voltage to create microwaves, which are then used to cook food. If there is a short circuit in the microwave, it can cause the microwaves to leak out, which can trip the breaker. Additionally, a short circuit can cause sparks and fires, which is why it’s important to have it repaired as soon as possible.

If you have a short circuit in your microwave, it’s important to unplug it and call a repair person as soon as possible. Do not try to repair it yourself, as you could be electrocuted. Additionally, do not use the microwave until it has been repaired, as it could pose a fire hazard.

3. A problem with the outlet.

There are a few reasons why the outlet might not be working properly and causing the microwave to trip the breaker. The first possibility is that the outlet is not grounded. If the outlet is not grounded, then the electrical current from the microwave can cause a shock hazard. Another possibility is that the outlet is overloaded. If there are too many appliances plugged into the outlet, then it can cause the circuit to break. Finally, if there is a short circuit in the outlet, then this can also cause the breaker to trip. If you are not sure why the outlet is not working properly, then you should contact an electrician.

4. The wrong type of breaker is being used.

There are a few reasons why using the wrong type of breaker for your microwave can cause it to trip the breaker. One reason is that the wrong type of breaker may not be able to handle the amount of power that the microwave needs. This can cause the breaker to overheat and trip. Another reason is that the wrong type of breaker may not have the proper safeguards in place to protect against electrical surges. This can also cause the breaker to trip. Finally, if the breaker is not properly rated for the circuit it is being used on, it could pose a fire hazard. Therefore, it is important to make sure that you use the proper type of breaker for your microwave and circuit.

5. The breaker is old and needs to be replaced.

There are several reasons why an old breaker might trip more frequently than a new one. First, as breakers age, they can become less sensitive, meaning that they are more likely to trip even when there isn’t a lot of current flowing through them. Second, as breakers get older, the internal components can start to wear out, which can also cause them to trip more frequently. Finally, if the wiring in your home is old or worn, it can also contribute to tripping. If you’re experiencing frequent breaker trips, it’s best to have an electrician inspect your home’s electrical system to determine the cause.

How to prevent the microwave from tripping the breaker?

1. Use a surge protector.

If your home has a circuit breaker panel, you may have noticed that the microwave trips the breaker occasionally. This is because the microwave draws a large amount of power when it is in use. A surge protector can help to protect your appliance from damage by absorbing some of the excess power and preventing it from reaching the appliance. Follow these steps to properly use a surge protector with your microwave:

1. Unplug the microwave from its power source.
2. Plug the surge protector into an outlet near the microwave.
3. Plug the microwave into the surge protector.
4. Turn on the surge protector.
5. Use the microwave as usual.
6. When finished, turn off the surge protector and unplug it from the outlet.
7. Unplug the microwave from the surge protector.
8. Store the surge protector in a safe place.

By following these steps, you can help to prevent damage to your microwave and keep it running properly for years to come.

2. Avoid using extension cords.

When microwaving food, it is important to avoid using extension cords. This is because the microwave can trip the breaker if the cord is not properly rated for the wattage of the appliance. Additionally, extension cords can create a fire hazard if they are not used correctly. If you must use an extension cord, be sure to choose one that is heavy-duty and has the proper rating for the wattage of your microwave. Additionally, be sure to follow all safety precautions when using extension cords.

3. Keep the area around the breaker box clear.

One of the most common reasons why a microwave trips a breaker is because the area around the breaker box is cluttered. When there are too many items in the way, it can cause the breaker to trip. This is especially true if there are any loose wires or cords in the area. If you have a lot of stuff stored near the breaker box, it’s best to clear it out so that the area is less likely to trip the breaker.

Another reason why you might need to keep the area around your breaker box clear is because of dust buildup. Over time, dust can build up on the breaker and cause it to trip. If you live in an area with a lot of dust, you may need to clean out the breaker box more often to prevent this from happening.

If you’re still having problems with your microwave tripping the breaker, it’s a good idea to call an electrician. They can help you figure out what the problem is and how to fix it. In most cases, they’ll be able to tell you why the area around your breaker box needs to be clear.

4. Do not use space heaters near the breaker box.

If you’re using a space heater near the breaker box, it’s possible that the heat from the space heater is causing the breaker to trip. This is especially true if the breaker box is located in a cramped or crowded area. Additionally, microwaves can also cause breakers to trip if they’re not used properly. If your microwave is tripping the breaker, try moving it away from the breaker box or using a different outlet.  If you must use a space heater, make sure to turn it off when you are not using it.

5. Check the wiring in your home regularly.

If your home has older wiring, it may not be able to handle the increased demand that a microwave places on the electrical system. Over time, this can cause the wiring to overheat, which can trip the breaker. To help prevent this from happening, you should check the wiring in your home regularly and have it replaced if necessary. If you live in an area where power outages are common, you may also want to invest in a backup generator so that you can continue to use your microwave even when the power is out.

These are just a few tips that can help you prevent your microwave from tripping and breaking the breaker. If you’re still having problems, you should call an electrician so they can look at your home’s electrical system and make sure that everything is in order with your equipment.

How to choose the right breaker for the microwave?

1. The voltage and amperage rating of the breaker.

The voltage and amperage of the breaker for the microwave must be selected according to the specific appliance and the electrical system in your home. Depending on the power requirements of the microwave, you may need a 15- or 20-amp circuit breaker. If your home has a 220-volt electrical system, you’ll need a special circuit breaker for this high-powered appliance. Check your microwave’s owner’s manual for more information on finding the right breaker for your unit.

2. The type of load that the breaker will be used for.

There are two types of loads that the breaker for the microwave can support: a standard load and an inductive load. Standard loads, like those found in most electrical outlets, are made up of resistive materials like wires and coils. Inductive loads, on the other hand, are generally made up of materials like magnets and solenoids. To choose the right type of load for your breaker, you’ll need to know what kind of devices will be plugged into it. If you’re not sure, consult an electrician or the manufacturer of your microwave.

If you have a standard load, then any common household circuit breaker should be able to handle it. However, if you have an inductive load, then you’ll need to use a special breaker designed for that purpose. These breakers are usually labeled as such, and they’ll have a higher amperage rating than standard breakers. Be sure to check the ratings on both the breaker and the devices you’ll be plugging into it to ensure that everything is compatible.

When in doubt, always err on the side of caution and consult an electrician or other qualified professional before attempting to work with any electrical equipment.

4. The size and weight of the breaker.

The size and weight of the breaker for the microwave is an important consideration when choosing this appliance. The breaker must be large enough to support the electrical load of the microwave, but it should not be so large that it is difficult to install or operate. In addition, the breaker should be designed to trip if the current draw exceeds the specified rating of the appliance.

When selecting a breaker for a microwave, it is important to consult with an electrician or other qualified professional to ensure that the correct size and type of breaker are selected.

5. The price of the breaker.

The price of the breaker is an important factor to consider when purchasing a microwave. There are a few things you should keep in mind when determining the price. The first is the size of the unit. The second is the features offered. The third is whether or not you need installation. Finally, you’ll want to compare prices between different stores.

When comparing prices, be sure to look at the total cost of ownership, not just the purchase price. The total cost of ownership includes the purchase price, plus any delivery and installation charges, as well as the cost of electricity to operate the microwave over its lifetime. Comparing the total cost of ownership will give you the most accurate picture of which microwave is the best deal.

6. The warranty of the breaker.

There are two types of breakers for microwaves: those with a warranty and those without. If you are buying a new microwave, it is important to consider the warranty of the breaker. Some companies offer a full warranty on their products, while others only offer limited coverage. It is important to read the fine print on any warranty before making a purchase.

By following these tips, you can be sure to choose the best warranty and amperage rating for your needs. By taking the time to do your research, you can be sure to find the perfect breaker for your kitchen.

FAQs For Microwave Keeps Tripping The Breaker:

1. How do I know if my microwave is causing the breaker to trip?

One way to tell if your microwave is causing the breaker to trip is by unplugging it and then plugging it back in. If the breaker trips again, then you know that there is a problem with your appliance. Additionally, you can try moving the microwave away from the breaker box or using a different outlet to see if that makes a difference.

2. What should I do if my microwave trips the breaker?

If your microwave trips the breaker, you should first try to determine what is causing the problem. If you think that the appliance is defective, you should unplug it and contact the manufacturer for further instructions. Additionally, be sure to check the area around the breaker box for any loose wires or cords that could be causing the issue. If everything looks clear, you can try resetting the breaker or call an electrician for help.

4. What should I do if the breaker trips and won’t reset?

If the breaker trips and won’t reset, there may be a problem with your electrical system. You should call an electrician to come and take a look at your home to determine what is causing the problem. Additionally, you should avoid using any appliances or electronics until the issue has been resolved.

Conclusion: 

While it can be frustrating to deal with a tripping breaker, it’s important to remember that there are simple solutions to this problem. By troubleshooting the issue and taking a few preventative measures, you can keep your microwave running smoothly without any interruptions.

We hope this post will answer any questions you have about why your microwave keeps tripping the breaker. Have you had any issues with your microwave tripping the breaker? Let us know in the comments! We’re always happy to help!