GE Microwave Power off while cooking question

[Dan Frye]

Model Number

PVM9179SK1SS

Brand

GE

Age

6-10 years

Hello all,

I have a GE PVM9179SK1SS microwave that just started giving the error message "power went off during cooking - press any button to continue". Pressing any button resets the unit. Some times I will get the error in 1 minute and other times it takes 3-4 minutes.

After it shuts off the cooking cycle, the time of day display and buttons work fine. The cooling fan and magnetron both sound normal and appear to working normal as it is heating up the food. All of the connections look ok (no indications of burning). Could the thermal cut off be weak or failing?

Any and all ideas are welcome. I am reluctant to just start throwing parts at it.

Thanks in advance for your help.

 

[Dan Frye]

Can anyone point me in the right direction? Maybe Dan O or Wx4usa?

 

[Wx4usa]

That's an interesting issue in that the error is not listed. Thermal cutoffs are quite possible. I believe the mag tco will reset and when it fails, it is inline and there will be no power. Just like a power failure. I'll upload the mini manual. There were no related bulletins on the GE site.

 

[Dan Frye]

Thank you so much for looking into this and your reply Wx4usa! I will replace the mag tco and report back.
In your experience, do my symtoms sound like a failing mag? My focus has been on it overheating but the cooling fan appears to be working properly.

 

[Wx4usa]

I could be overheating. You also have a cavity TCO that cuts power to the MW. Also check the internal charcoal air filter. If could restrict airflow to the magnetron. Look for cracked magnets on the magnetron too.

 

[Dan Frye]

Thanks again! I did check the charcoal air filter and even ran it without it thinking about blockage. I will check the cavity TCO and the magnets -- I didn't think of that.