How to Troubleshoot a GE Hood Top Microwave

Unexpected Fan Startup and Operation

• General Electric designed the microwave/hood combination to automatically detect extreme temperature buildup underneath. The vent fan automatically turns on to quickly dissipate vapors and smoke while you are boiling, frying or simmering on the range. Too much heat from the range below can damage the underside of the microwave above. Don't assume that the microwave is heating food on its own, just because the fan is on. In fact, on some models you can see the "FAN" indicator on the microwave to confirm this automation is happening. Also, the fan inside the microwave may autonomously stay on for several minutes, even if you wish to turn it off; this is another protection against internal heat.

Surface Light Issues

• The venting and hood system on the GE microwave is complemented by a surface light for the range below. While many traditional range hoods only allow for one brightness level, General Electric equips many of its units with two levels, "Bright" and "Nite Light." If you need to leave a kitchen light on at night, make sure you set "Auto Nite Light" feature instead of leaving the bulb on the brightest setting. This might cause extreme heat to build up in the microwave, potentially resulting in damage. Review your microwave's manual to learn how to properly set the Auto Nite Light feature to turn on and off based on the time of the day.

Unapproved Cookware

• Many GE microwaves support several completely different cooking options. Most notably is the convection baking and roasting, that mimics cooking in a range or wall oven. In this mode, the GE microwave uses a heating element instead of microwave energy for cooking purposes. You should be careful to adapt your cooking to the option that is selected. For example, many households have traditionally used paper towels to cover bowls to prevent food splattering while warming foods in a conventional microwave. However, you should not place paper products in the microwave if it is using the convection heating element, because that could set the paper on fire. Another example is that metal pans have always been off limits in conventional microwaves, but many GE microwaves support metal containers in convection mode. Refer to your microwave's manual to learning about the available cooking options and cookware tips.

  -- (see References #1, Page 10, "Available Cooking Options")
  -- (see References #1, Page 20, "Cookware tips")
  -- (see References #5, "....placed a paper towel....")

Post-Installation Clearance Concern

• If the GE microwave does not have a minimum clearance above the surface of the range, venting my be ineffective and the microwave may be more susceptible to damage for heat exposure. The bottom of these microwaves should measure at least 14-16 inches from the surface of the range. Moreover, there should be 66 inches of distance between the kitchen floor to the top of the microwave. Not only is this recommended for venting performance, but General Electric takes these measurements into consideration when deciding to honor the service and repair warranty. If your microwave/hood combination is breaking down too often or is ineffective as a vent, use a ruler to take height measurements to rule out poor installation as an issue. You may need to have a technician correctly remount the microwave or replace the unit altogether.