How much does microwave repair cost?
How much does microwave repair cost?
$100 – $250 average cost to repair a microwave
$100 – $300 average cost to replace a magnetron
$80 – $170 average cost to replace a diode
Microwave repair cost
Microwave repair costs $100 to $250 on average. The cost to replace a magnetron is $100 to $300. Microwave diode replacement costs $80 to $170. The labor cost of microwave repair is $50 to $125 per hour. Microwave repair prices depend on the unit’s brand, type, age, and warranty.
| Repair type | Average cost | Common microwave problems |
|---|---|---|
| Magnetron | $100 – $300 |
|
| Diode | $80 – $170 |
|
| Control board | $120 – $380 |
|
| Turntable motor | $90 – $200 |
|
| Door assembly | $170 – $330 |
|
| Touch pad | $120 – $330 |
|
| Fuse | $75 – $165 |
|
| Door switch | $80 – $170 |
|
| Exhaust fan motor | $130 – $330 |
|
| Light bulb | $80 – $180 |
|
| Power cord | $80 – $180 |
|
| Transformer | $100 – $300 |
|
| Thermostat | $80 – $170 |
|
*Prices include replacement parts and labor.
Average cost of microwave repair
The following table shows the average cost of microwave repair:
| National average cost | $175 |
|---|---|
| Minimum cost | $70 |
| Maximum cost | $500 |
| Average range | $100 to $250 |
Cost data is from research and project costs reported by HomeGuide members.
Microwave repair prices by type of repair
Cost to replace a magnetron
The cost to replace a magnetron is $100 to $300 on average, depending on the microwave brand and model. Microwave magnetron prices are $50 to $200 for the part alone. A failed magnetron often means other parts like the diode also need replacing.
The cost to replace a magnetron in a GE microwave is $120 to $380.
Samsung microwave magnetron replacement costs $130 to $300.
Microwave diode replacement cost
A microwave diode replacement costs $80 to $170 on average. When a diode burns out, the microwave stops heating. The diode is an electrical part that powers the magnetron. Technicians often replace the magnetron and diode at the same time.
Cost to fix a microwave by type
The following table shows the cost to fix a microwave by type:
| Microwave type | Average repair cost |
|---|---|
| Built-in / over-the-range | $130 – $330 |
| Countertop | $80 – $180 |
*Prices include new parts and labor.
Cost factors include:
Installation type – Over-the-range and built-in microwaves cost more to repair than countertop models.
Labor – Appliance repair costs $50 to $125 per hour for labor. Minimum service fees are $70 to $130 and typically include the first hour of work.
Part availability – Additional fees apply when the technician must return later to install a special-order part, and when the part ships from far away.
Electrical work – An electrician costs $40 to $100 per hour for wiring work. The cost to replace an electrical outlet is $80 to $200.
Brand – High-end models typically have higher replacement-part prices.
Warranty – Some warranties cover the part costs, but not the labor fees.
Microwave age – Parts for units more than 5 years old cost extra when they’re in short supply.
Built-in and over-the-range microwave repair
Built-in and over-the-range microwave repairs cost $130 to $330 on average, or more if the work requires cabinet modifications or a new trim kit. These models cost slightly more to repair than countertop ones because it takes 2 people to remove the heavy-mounted unit and re-install it.
For over-the-range microwaves that cost more than $300 to$500 to buy and install, repairs are typically cheaper than replacements.
Countertop microwave repair
Countertop microwave repair costs $80 to $180 minimum, depending on the issue. A new countertop microwave costs $50 to $500. These units are typically cheaper to replace than repair.
When to repair vs. replace a microwave
Repair a microwave if it costs less than half of a replacement. A new microwave costs $100 to $600 on average. Microwave installation costs $100 to $400 extra in labor for built-in models.
| Repair | Replace |
|---|---|
|
|
DIY microwave repair
DIY microwave repair costs $20 to $130 on average, depending on which part needs replacing.
Part prices for easy DIY repairs include:
A new grease, charcoal, or air filter costs $20 to $40.
A glass tray costs $20 to $80.
A door handle costs $25 to $130.
A door assembly kit costs $100 to $300.
Hire a professional for all electrical repairs. Internal capacitator parts that stay charged for 24 hours after unplugging the unit can cause electrocution.
Microwave repair FAQs
Can microwaves be repaired?
Microwaves can be repaired if the compatible replacement parts are available. However, the manufacturer may stop producing replacement parts for units more than 4 to 7 years old.
Is it worth repairing a microwave?
Premium built-in microwaves less than 5 years old are worth repairing due to the expensive replacement cost. Cheap or countertop microwaves are typically cheaper to replace than repair.
Is it worth replacing a magnetron in a microwave?
Replacing a magnetron in a microwave is typically not worth it for countertop models because the cost is often more than buying a new microwave. Replacing a magnetron in expensive built-in microwaves is typically worth it if multiple parts aren’t also failing.
How long do microwaves last?
Microwaves last 7 to 10 years before they need replacing. To make a microwave last longer, clean it often, don’t run it while empty, and keep all the unit’s connections dry.
Who fixes microwaves?
Professionals who fix microwaves include:
Factory-trained technicians from appliance-repair centers
Official brand service centers
Contractors from home-improvement stores
Home warranty service contractors
Getting estimates from microwave repair service
Before hiring an appliance repairer near you, be sure to:
Compare 3+ bids from companies with 5 years of experience or more.
Beware of the cheapest quotes for low-quality service.
Ask if the technicians have certifications from the manufacturer or NASTeC.
Verify that the company has licenses, bonds, and insurance.
Read their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Get a detailed microwave repair estimate in writing before work starts.
Don’t give a full payment before the job is complete.
Questions to ask
How long have you been repairing microwaves?
Can I see your references list?
How much is your minimum service fee, and what does it include?
Will you inspect the connections and check for radiation leaks?
Do you have the part I need, or will ordering it cost extra?
How long will it take to fix?
Which microwave brands do you work on?
Do you have a labor or parts guarantee?
Am I within your standard service area, or will extra travel fees apply?
Do you offer ongoing maintenance plans?
How much does emergency repair or same-day service cost?
Would it be more cost-effective to repair or replace this model?
Can I get financing for expensive repairs or replacements?
How can I prevent these damages in the future?
Are all labor, parts, and cleanup fees in this estimate?