Sharp Microwave Repair

Sharp microwave ovens, like appliances from other manufacturers, sometimes stop working when you need them most. Trouble usually arises when the electricity supply is interrupted or there is a problem with the current contents of the microwave. The internal computer that controls the microwave may become scrambled during a power surge or software problem and need resetting. Repairing a Sharp microwave without specific symptoms takes about 20 minutes.

Step 1

Check the power outlet supplying the microwave with electricity. Try plugging something else in — you have blown a fuse or tripped a breaker if nothing works while connected to the outlet. Replace the fuse or reset the breaker and try the oven again. Other appliances or outlets are usually affected when a fuse or breaker is tripped.

Step 2

Ensure the outlet is switched on — if necessary — via its power switch. Some kitchens are fitted with power switches on the back wall behind the kitchen counter for the major appliances. Turn the outlet for the microwave oven to the "On" position and try the appliance again.

Step 3

Hit "Stop/Clear" a few times — the microwave will return to standby mode. The microwave's internal computer could have become confused or scrambled due to a power surge or invalid input. Unplug the microwave for a few minutes if the computer continues to malfunction. Plug the appliance back in and try again.

Step 4

Reset the clock after unplugging the microwave. Hit "Timer/Clock," the colon between the hours and minutes will start to flash. Enter the time using the number buttons, 1:30 PM becomes "0130." Sharp ovens use a 12-hour clock; any hour higher than 12 will be rejected. The microwave won't perform certain functions if the clock isn't set.

Step 5

Cancel the child lock — the oven won't heat up while it is active. Touch "Timer/Clock" then the "1" button and then "Stop/Clear." "SAFE" appears on the microwave's screen when you press a button with the child lock active. Repeat the instructions but press "Start" instead of "Stop/Clear" to reactivate the child lock.

Step 6

Cancel demonstration mode if it has been accidentally activated. Touch "Timer/Clock" then "0" and then "Stop Clear." "SHO" appears on the screen when demonstration mode is active. The oven works as normal without heating up during demonstration mode. Unplugging the microwave also cancels demonstration mode.

Step 7

Remove the plastic turntable support and glass plate from the oven. Carefully wipe down the floor, walls and ceiling of the microwave with a soapy cloth, removing all food stains and splashes. Clean the turntable support and plate in a sink of soapy water and dry with a kitchen cloth. Dry the inside of the oven and return the turntable support and plate. Food residue sometimes prevents the turntable from working properly.