MICROWAVES

1. My microwave runs but doesn't heat.

If the microwave runs but is not heating, it could be one of many components.

• Make sure the “Timer” function was not inadvertently used.
• Check to ensure the door is closed firmly. Close it firmly, but do not slam. This confirms the engagement of the door's safety mechanisms.

For safety reasons, we offer no do-it-yourself repair advice on microwave ovens due to an internal high voltage capacitor (can hold a high voltage charge even after it has been unplugged). Special equipment is generally needed to make a diagnosis.

If the above suggestions do not solve the problem and the microwave still won't heat, we recommend contacting service.

2. How do I change the power level on my microwave?

To change the power level on most models:

1. Press Time Cook, Micro Cook, or Cook Time.
2. Enter cooking time in minutes and seconds.
3. Press Power Level
4. Select a desired power level between 1-10 (Default is 10 which is the highest power level).
5. Press Start

For instructions specific to your model, consult your Owner's Manual.

3. What do the fault or error codes that appear on my microwave display mean?

Fault codes are programmed in all microwave oven controls. These codes help our technicians quickly diagnose issues with the microwave oven. In the event that the electronic control displays a fault code, a trained Service Technician should be called to diagnose and correct the issue.

A summary of the most common fault codes and their meanings are listed below:

Fault code	Definition
F1	Open Thermal Sensor, due to excessive heat in microwave cavity
F2	Shorted thermal sensor
F3	Shorted touch pad panel
F4	Open humidity sensor
F5	Shorted humidity sensor
F6	Shorted temperature probe
F10	Shorted touch screen
Probe	Open temperature probe or the probe is not plugged in during a temp cook function. Make sure probe is firmly inserted into the wall of microwave and the food item.
888, 8888 or PF	It is possible to see this display upon initial installation or after power was restored due to a power failure. This display can be cancelled and normal operation resumed by touching the CLEAR pad. The clock can be reset on models so equipped.
18 power watch code	Indication of an issue with the electronic control in the microwave.

Sometimes shutting off the circuit breaker that the microwave oven is connected to for 30 seconds will clear the fault, error or function code; however, there are some cases when further service may be required.

4. The paint inside my microwave is chipped or scorched.

Arcing is the microwave term for sparks in the oven, which can be caused by metal or foil touching the side of the oven, using metal utensils or improper placement of the metal rack on the shelf supports. Please read and follow the Owner's Manual for important safety instructions.

• In the event of a hole in the microwave’s cavity wall, the damage is non-repairable and you should discontinue use of the product. It is also recommended that the microwave be replaced if arcing continues to occur.
• Minor chips to the coating on the microwave's interior cavity will not affect the product's performance.

If the coating is actively flaking or paint is peeling anywhere inside the oven cavity (including under the turntable) discontinue the use of the microwave and replace it. The microwave is not repairable.

• The cavity coating in our microwave ovens is selected to be safely used as a food-contact surface and meets our and applicable government requirements for such use.
• No lead or other toxic materials are added to the cavity coating material used in our microwave ovens.
• The inadvertent ingestion of small amounts of peeling coating does not create a health risk.

We do not have an approved repair method for chips/burns/scratches to the coatings.

5. How do I set the clock on my microwave?

How to Set the Microwave Clock

Models with electronic push button controls:

1. Press CLOCK
2. Enter the time of day.
3. Select AM or PM.
4. Press START or CLOCK.

*Cannot be set for military time.

Models with dial electronic controls:

1. Press the SETTINGS button and turn the dial to select CLOCK SET. Press the dial to enter.
2. Turn the dial to set hours. Press the dial to enter.
3. Turn the dial to set minutes. Press the dial to enter.

*Most models can be set for 24 hour (military time). To set Clock Mode:

1. Press the Settings button and turn the dial to select Clock Mode. Press the dial to enter.
2. Turn the dial to set 12 hours or 24 hours Clock Mode. Press enter to activate.

Microwave clocks use less than 2 watts of power.

6. Why is there moisture on the interior of my microwave oven?

Condensation inside the unit is normal and is especially prevalent when cooking foods of high moisture content for extended periods of time.

• Moisture should dissipate in ten to fifteen minutes.
• If minimal moisture is noticed between the glass of the door, allow the door to stand open for approximately 15 minutes to accelerate the dissipation of the moisture. If the moisture does not evaporate in a reasonable amount of time, we recommend service.
• Steam and vapor escaping from around the door is normal.
• Make sure food that needs to be covered while cooking is covered properly.
• Make sure that there are no items blocking the airflow around the microwave case.

Condensation on or around the outside of the door is normal for when cooking certain foods.

• Steam from cooking below an over-the-range microwave can collect on the door or control panel, or even the interior of the microwave. Wipe the moisture off with a paper towel or soft cloth. Use the vent fan to help prevent moisture from building up.
• If moisture is noticed between the glass, allow the microwave door to stand open for approximately 15 minutes to accelerate the dissipation of the moisture.
• There are air vents in the door that allows air to flow between the panes of the window in the door. Air passage through the door helps keep the door cool to the touch during operation.
7. The touch control panel on my microwave isn't working properly.

If the microwave key panel is not responding or working properly, check the following:

• Make sure that the microwave is plugged into a grounded outlet. It must be a 3-prong outlet.
• Make sure the clock is set.
• Check to see if a programming sequence was entered. Sometimes improper programming or a program sequence such as delay start can cause the touch panel to be non-responsive. Unplug microwave or turn off house circuit breaker for 30 seconds. Plug back in, or reset circuit breaker, and try reprogramming unit.
• Check the house circuit breaker. If the microwave is DEAD and there is no display and nothing works- the problem could be a blown fuse or tripped breaker.

If none of these suggestions solve the problem, we recommend contacting service.

8. How do I replace the oven light in my over-the-range microwave?

Over the range microwaves have one interior light, typically visible on the upper right side of the cavity. There is not a light located on the left side of the cavity.

If the interior light needs to be replaced, consult the Owner's Manual that came with your unit for light replacement directions. If the Owner's Manual for your model does not provide instructions for lamp replacement:

1. Unplug the microwave oven.
2. Remove the vent grille or vent cover. Follow the vent grille/cover directions in the “To Remove the Charcoal Filter” section of your Owner's Manual.
3. Once the vent is removed, remove the lamp compartment cover by removing the screw that holds the cover in place. If the cover is too difficult to access, a service technician will be required.
4. Remove the bulb
• Incandescent lamps: Remove by pushing inward gently and turning counter-clockwise.
• Halogen lamps: Gently pull straight out
5. Replace the old bulb with the same wattage bulb.
6. Replace the compartment cover and vent grille.
7. Plug in the microwave.

To minimize the possibility of electric shock, unplug this appliance from the power supply before attempting any maintenance or cleaning.

Note: On model PVM9005, the glass window is tinted, so it may appear the interior light is not on. If you open the door and the light comes on, then the microwave is functioning properly.

9. My microwave is displaying “PF” or “8888”. What do I do?

If a power failure should occur, a microwave, depending on the model, may display a “PF”, “888” or “8888” code.

It is possible to see this display upon initial installation or after power was restored due to a power failure. Both display codes can be cancelled and normal operation resumed by touching the CLEAR pad. You may now reset the clock on models so equipped.

10. My microwave turntable isn't turning. What do I do?

If the turntable does not turn check the following:

• Make sure the turntable is centered and seated properly.
• On models with a stirrer motor there is a shaft protruding up through the floor of the microwave. Make sure the turntable is securely fastened to this shaft.
• On models that turn on a ring with wheels attached, make sure the turntable is seated securely on the ring.
• Check the turntable to make sure it is placed right side up. If the turntable plate is upside down it will drag on the floor of the microwave.
• Check to make sure that there is no food or debris under the “wheels” of the turntable ring. Food can prevent the wheels from moving forward.
• Be certain you are pressing a cook function rather than a timer function.
• If the microwave has a turntable on/off feature make sure the turntable was not inadvertently turned off. Try depressing the turntable on/off pad to re-engage the turntable.

If the above suggestions do not solve the issue and the turntable will still not turn, we recommend contacting service.

11. My microwave works but does something unusual.

It is normal to experience any of the following with a microwave or Advantium oven:

Door

• Steam or vapor escaping from around the door. This does not mean that the unit is leaking microwave energy. The door is designed to allow heat and steam to escape to prevent the overheating of the unit. It is normal to see some condensation between the door panels, unless the condensation does not dissipate within a reasonable amount of time.
• Light reflection around door or outer case. The light is located outside the oven cavity and can reflect light out around the hinge, door, outer case, and oven lamp access cover.
• It is normal for the door to have a little give in it, either up or down or in or out, up 1/8”. This will not cause microwave leakage.

Lights and Sounds

• Dull thumping sound or hum while cooking at power levels other than high. When using a power level other than HIGH or 10 the magnetron tube cycles on and off to obtain the lower power. This cycling of the magnetron tube causes this dull thumping, pulsating, or humming noise. When combination cooking in microwave/convection models, the cycling of the convection element and fan will alternate continuously with the hum of the magnetron and the fan.
• Humming noise when the microwave is not in operation. The transformer emits a slight humming sound that is usually not noticed. The transformer is used to power the clock.
• Flickering light under low voltage conditions.
• The light will come on when the door is open, except for the JE635/835/1235 and JES636WK models.
• A “clicking noise” upon startup is normal operation. This is found in models JVM1840, JVM1850, JVM1851, JVM1860, JVM1861.
• On model PVM9005, the glass is tinted, so it can appear the interior light is not working. If you open the door and the light comes on, then the interior light is working normally.
• It is normal for the internal fan for the electronics to continue to run for a few seconds after the microwave cycle is complete, even if the door is opened.
• It is normal to hear clicks or relays after starting the cycle. You will also hear them after pressing Start but before the unit actually starts running.
• The control panel buttons on microwaves are not backlit (do not light up).

Fan & Vent

• A fan where the internal components are located will run continuously while the microwave is in operation to constantly circulate the air to cool the working parts. It is normal for the internal fan for the electronics to continue to run for a few seconds after the microwave cycle is complete, even if the door is opened. This fan does not circulate air in the cavity.
• Exterior fan noise on over-the-range models. The fan will make noise similar to a vent hood. Note: This fan is controlled by a high/low/off switch but will automatically come on if the cooktop surface transfers significant heat to the microwave. The fan will not go off until the microwave thermostat reaches a lower temperature.
• Fan bearing noise. This will occur if the microwave is operated in temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It is recommended that the room temperature be at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit for proper operation.
• Warm outer case on the control panel side. The heat is normal and comes from the power transformer.
• The Active Vent/Hidden Vent found on the JVM1800 series models will open during operation, and remain open as long as the microwave is running to keep the electronics cool during operation. It is also normal to hear a clicking noise as the “vent” opens and closes.

Warm Cavity or Case

• Cooking foods in a microwave oven for an extended period of time can cause a heat transfer not only to the internal oven walls and floor, but to the external cabinet as well.
• Exterior case may have symbol (triangle with waves) stamped in the metal. This symbol means “Caution, hot surface”.
• On over-the-range models, heat from the surface lights can make the cavity floor warm, especially if they are on for a prolonged period. This is normal.
• Moisture or steam on the cavity walls during microwave cooking is normal.
12. What do I do if there is popping or arcing in my microwave?

If your microwave is making arcing, sparking, popping, or other electrical sounds:

• Popping sounds are usually caused by the food item being cooked in the microwave. Food items with a higher fat content will pop and sizzle as they cook. Covering the container will reduce this. Noises can also be heard when cooking foods with tight membranes such as potatoes. Pierce the skin of potatoes before cooking.
• Food spills will also cause popping noises. Clean up spills in the microwave as soon as they occur.
• Operating the microwave empty may also cause a popping to occur and can damage the interior. Always have something in the microwave when in use.
• Using metal or metal-trimmed cooking utensils in the microwave causes arcing in a microwave. The Owner's Manual will offer recommendations on the correct utensils to use.
• Check to see if the cooking probe has been left in the microwave. If using the probe, make sure it is properly inserted into the food item. If not properly inserted it can cause arcing and destroy the probe.
• If using the metal cooking rack, make sure it is firmly in place and not upside down.
• If the popping noise is electrical or mechanical in sound, we recommend contacting service.
• If the arcing burned a hole through the cavity wall, the damage is non-repairable. You can continue to safely use the microwave if the hole is equal to or smaller than the hole size that you see on the door screen and additional arcing is not occurring during the cooking cycle. If the hole is larger than this, it is recommended that the microwave be replaced.
13. How can I tell if the vent on my Spacemaker™ over-the-range microwave is working correctly?

The over-the-range microwave vent system should properly remove most heat, steam, and smoke from the cooktop. If boiling or simmering for long periods of time on the front burners, the vent will not always be capable of capturing all of the excess steam. It may be necessary to use the back burners in this case.

The tissue test below can be used to check proper draw of the vent:

• Turn the vent fan on HIGH and hold a tissue or paper towel under the vent area. The suction should hold the tissue or paper towel in place. The draw is equal on both sides. It is normal to have some air blowing out of the top grill.

If the unit does not hold the tissue or paper towel:

• Check for proper installation of the fan ductwork. Refer to the installation instructions for complete instructions.
• If your microwave is vented internally we recommend replacing the charcoal filter every 6-12 months depending on usage.

If the vent is installed properly and is still not drawing, contact service.

14. Popcorn won't pop in my microwave; what can I do?

Popcorn may not pop due to the following reasons:

• An improper utensil being used, such as placing the corn in a bag or container.
• The wattage of the microwave oven may be too low. Usually, at least 500 watts is required to generate enough heat to pop popcorn.
• The popcorn is stale or of poor quality. Use fresh, good quality popping corn with a high moisture content specifically designed for microwaves. Old popcorn may not have enough moisture to pop.
• Remove the microwave rack, if applicable, before attempting to cook the popcorn.
• Other reasons that popcorn may not cook properly:
• Using low fat popcorn instead of regular
• Using a small bag size
• Putting the bag upside down on the tray
• Refrigerated popcorn may take longer.
15. May a browning dish be used in the microwave?

Microwaves do not brown as readily as conventional cooking, therefore browning dishes are very helpful. Browning dishes simulate a fry pan or skillet so that foods such as steaks, chops, hamburgers, and even french toast can be prepared. Browning dishes are a pyroceramic material with metal imbedded in it. Most must be preheated in the microwave so that the metal superheats the surface creating a griddle effect. Be careful because they get very hot.

We always recommend that the manufacturer's directions be followed but below are a few guidelines:

• Do not use a browning dish on a microwave shelf. You must put it on a clean oven floor. If the microwave has a removable glass tray on the floor, be sure to leave the glass tray in place.
• Preheating times vary according to the size of the dish, food used, etc. Follow the manufacturer's directions.
• Always start with minimum time, increasing the time for more browning.
• Partially frozen foods brown more slowly than refrigerator temperature food.
• Excess moisture decreases browning. Dry meats with paper towel first.
• Flatten or press food with a spatula occasionally to increase browning.
• Do not use a cover for crisper, browner foods.
• Rotating the dish during cooking produces more even cooking. The dish will be hot.
• When using the dish a second time, preheating time is usually cut in half.
16. My microwave has an odor.

For “newness” odors in a microwave:

• First-time usage of a microwave may produce some smoke. This is typically a very small amount and is perfectly normal.
• An electrical odor in new machines can be normal because the electronic board is “curing” as the circuit board material is heated for first few uses.
• On microwave/convection models:
• Dust particles can accumulate on the convection element and burn off when in use producing a small amount of smoke. Once dust has been burned off, the smoke will dissipate.
• A strong burning, oily smell is normal when using Convection BAKE, Convection ROAST or Combination Fast Cook for the first few times. The smell comes from the new convection heater and will go away with regular use. If this smell does not dissipate after multiple uses, service is recommended.

For burned food odors:

• Clean up spatters and spills as they occur.
• We recommend washing the interior with baking soda, or a non-abrasive detergent, and letting it dry. We recommend leaving the door open for 2-3 hours when the microwave is not in use to let the microwave “air out.” Some extreme odors like fish or burned popcorn may take several days to wear away.
• If the smell or odor persists, we recommend you try one of the following: Mix 6 tablespoons of baking soda and one cup of water or mix a solution of 1/2 cup lemon juice and one cup of water. Place either solution in a microwave safe dish of appropriate size and heat for 2 to 3 minutes on high power.
17. How do I clean my microwave?

To minimize the possibility of electric shock, unplug the microwave from the power supply before attempting any maintenance or cleaning.

Most spills and splatters in the microwave clean up easily with a damp, soapy paper towel or sponge. It is best to clean soil as soon as it appears. Consult your Owner's Manual for information about cleaning your microwave.

Cleaning Interior:

• Use a mild dishwashing liquid and damp cloth or paper towel.
• Baking soda and water may be used on any interior type.
• Cleaners designed for cleaning interiors of microwave ovens, such as MicroBryte® or Microwave Oven Magic®.
• Cerama Bryte Appliance Cleaner
• If the food has cooked onto the interior:
1. Heat one cup of water on full power for three minutes. The heat and steam help to soften the food.
2. After the three minutes, allow five additional minutes of stand time.
3. Then, clean as usual. A plastic pad or scrubber can be used.
• DO NOT use commercial oven cleaners, abrasive cleaners, or cleaners containing ammonia or bleach (can make the plastic brittle) on any part of the microwave.

Cleaning the door (both interior and exterior):

• Use only mild, non-abrasive soaps or detergents applied with a sponge or soft cloth. You can use Cerama Bryte Appliance Cleaner.

Cleaning the control panel:

• Wipe with a soft, damp cloth and dry immediately. Do not spray any solution directly onto the controls
18. Why don't the 7, 8, and 9 keypads on my microwave seem to do anything?

Many of our microwaves have an “Express Cook” feature for some of the numbers on the key pad. For example, pressing the “2” will cause the microwave to cook for 2 minutes. No microwave has the “Express Cook” feature for the numbers 7, 8, or 9 on the key pad.

19. My microwave stopped working, has no power.

If the microwave shuts down during a cooking cycle and appears to have no power, check the house circuit breaker and verify the outlet is getting power. You can try plugging something else into the outlet, like a night light, lamp, etc. If the outlet is getting power, the microwave may have overheated.

Overheating can occur after several minutes of cooking (long cooking times) or if the microwave air clearance requirements have not been met. Please consult the Owner's Manual regarding air clearances for your particular model.

If the microwave turns off before the set time is complete, it can be due to a covered or blocked oven vent around the case. Uncover the vent or reposition the oven so that the vents are not blocked. This will assure adequate airflow around the oven.

Wait approximately 30 minutes to see if the microwave power returns. If power does not return to the microwave, this signals a problem.

20. May I use metal in my microwave?

Metal cookware should not be used in a microwave. Metal will not allow microwaves to penetrate; the food behind the metal will not be cooked. The metal could also cause arcing in the oven.

Microwave convection ovens can use metal and foil safely during the convection cooking.

Metal (aluminum foil) can be safely used in a microwave but certain guidelines must be followed to prevent damage to the oven. The following describes the proper use:

• Aluminum foil is used to shield portions of a food item to prevent overcooking. (i.e. leg tips and wings of a turkey or ends of a leg of ham). It should be a small amount of foil when applied and it should also be pressed close to the food item. No foil should be sticking up or out away from the food product. “Flags” or pieces of foil standing up will work as an antenna which could cause arcing.
• Do not completely cover any food item with aluminum foil. Do not leave metal twist ties on bread packages or other plastic bags when warming a food product. The metal twist ties act as an antenna, and will cause arcing and possible damage to the oven.
• Metal clamp on a turkey will have to be left in while defrosting since it is frozen into the bird. It is not a problem because of the size of the food product and the majority of the metal clamp is covered by portions of the bird. However, the clamp should be removed once the bird has defrosted, and is ready for cooking in the microwave.
21. Can I dry food or herbs in my microwave?

Drying fruits, vegetables and meats in the microwave is not recommended. Microwaves are designed to retain the moisture content in foods, not dry them. Also, fruits have a high sugar content and will have a great tendency to burn if they are overcooked in the microwave.

Herbs such as parsley, celery leaves and other herbs can be dried in the microwave. They contain a very minimal amount of moisture.

Directions for drying herbs:

1. Wash the herbs and partially dry them between paper towels.
2. Microwave on a paper towel using HIGH POWER two to four minutes per cup of herbs.
3. Rearrange the herbs every 30 seconds of drying time.
4. Remove the herbs from the microwave and allow them to cool on the paper towel.
5. Rub the herbs between the paper towel to crumble.
6. Repeat the process, if necessary.
22. Why do the walls or floor of my microwave feel warm to the touch?

Cooking foods in a microwave oven for an extended period of time can cause a heat transfer not only to the internal oven walls and floor, but to the external cabinet as well.

Heat is generated outward from the food being cooked. Additionally, the oven's interior lamp and the magnetron tube will contribute to external heat transfer. This condition is considered normal. It should be noted that the internal and external temperatures after extended cooking will vary, naturally, depending on the preparation and the length of the cooking time.

Over-The-Range Models: Heat from the surface lights can make the cavity floor warm, especially if they are on for a prolonged period. This is normal.

23. My microwave is displaying “18 power watch code.” What do I do?

If your microwave control panel goes blank and the term “18 power watch code” is displayed, service will be required. This is an indication of an issue with the electronic control in the microwave.

If your microwave is no longer in warranty, the cost of repair may not justify the expense. We recommend replacing the microwave.

24. How can I tell if a dish is microwave-safe?

Follow the directions below to determine if a dish or utensil is microwave safe.

1. Fill a cup with water.
2. Place the cup in the oven on or beside the utensil in question.
3. Microwave for one minute on high.

If the water becomes hot and the dish remains cool, the dish is microwave safe. If the dish heats up, it should not be used for microwaving.

Note: You cannot have one cup of water in the microwave with a power level of 10 for more than two minutes. If you leave it for more than 2 minutes, there is a higher risk of spontaneous boiling.

If both items fit in the oven without placing water on the utensil, the test results will be more apparent. This happens because some heat will be generated downward and the utensil may become warm. This would be a normal condition.

25. How do I replace the charcoal filter on my microwave?

A charcoal filter must be used if the over-the-range microwave oven is not vented to the outside. Charcoal filters are model specific, so it is important to replace the correct charcoal filter for your model. The charcoal filter is listed in each model's product specifications.

Replacement filters can be ordered from GE Appliance Parts.

Here are a few tips on recognizing when a charcoal filter should be replaced:

• When the filter fills with cooking grease.
• If, upon using the vent system, odors detected are different from the foods which are being cooked. This would suggest a build-up of heavy grease that has trapped previous cooking odors in the filter.
• If the entire surface area of the charcoal filter appears to be shiny, this would suggest the presence of a heavy grease build-up since the filter's surface normally appears as dull and porous.

The charcoal filter sits loosely in the filter compartment area behind the vent cover. While most are installed at an angle, some lay flat and unsecured in the filter compartment. They are designed to have freedom of movement until the vent fan is turned on, which then holds the filter in place. The filter can be smaller than the filter compartment, and may not cover the entire vent opening. This is normal.

For specific instructions on accessing and replacing the charcoal filter, consult the Owner's Manual.