Kitchenaid Microwave Door Replacement
Introduction
A Kitchenaid microwave is one of the best gadgets you can have in your kitchen – until the door comes off. If the door of your Kitchenaid microwave is stiff, loose, or has pulled away completely, you will need to get it replaced so you can continue using the appliance. Don’t just toss the microwave out; you can repair it!
Replacing the door will involve removing the microwave’s trim and removing the screws that hold the door in place.
You can then lift the old door off, dispose of it, and put a new one in place with the same screws. Put the trim back and test that the door opens and closes smoothly. Your microwave should now work again!
Steps For Replacing A Kitchenaid Microwave Door
Step 1) The first thing you need to do if your microwave door has been damaged is turn off the outlet’s power then disconnect the microwave completely. Don’t leave it connected to the outlet, even if it is off. For safety reasons, always physically unplug the microwave before you start doing any work on it.
Step 2) Next, remove the fascia or outer trim from the front of the microwave. Depending on your model, this will likely cover up the door edges, making it hard to access and remove the door.
You must determine how the fascia has been attached and carefully remove it. You may wish to make a note or take pictures to remind yourself how it was attached.
Be careful not to damage it; a new trim will not be included with your door replacement. The damage will show if you damage it and then fit it back onto your appliance.
Step 3) Locate the screws or clips that hold your microwave door in position and remove them to free the old door. Where these are and what they look like will depend on your model number, so you may need to research your specific model if you are struggling to find or remove them. Many doors are held in place by screws, but some may be fastened using clips.
Step 4) Lift the door off the microwave, being careful not to damage the microwave as you do so. Set the door to one side, out of your way. It can be disposed of later.
Step 5) Lift your new microwave door into position and use the screws or clips that you just removed to attach it. Fasten it into place and make sure it is secure and moves freely. It should open and close easily, with no sticking points. If it catches on anything, check that you have installed the screws/clips correctly.
Step 6) Put the fascia or outer trim back in place, as it was before you removed it. Ensure it is completely lined up with the microwave and fitted into position as initially. Refer to your note/pictures if necessary.
Step 7) Again test that the door moves smoothly, opening and closing as you would expect. Next, reconnect the microwave to the power outlet and ensure everything works correctly.
Tips And Precautions
The first thing you need to do is make sure that the door replacement you purchase for your microwave is the right one for your specific Kitchenaid model. You should be able to find a model number on your microwave itself, which will help you identify the specific part you’ll need. Don’t buy just any Kitchenaid microwave door; it may not fit.
If you can’t find the right door, get in touch with the manufacturer to request a part number. This should help you get the right replacement piece. Don’t use a part intended for another model; it is very unlikely to work.
You should also ensure you protect both your hands and eyes when changing the microwave door. Wear appropriate safety glasses and get a pair of gloves to protect your hands. This will reduce the risk of injury.
Sharp pieces of metal may be beneath the trim or surrounding the door’s screws, making the gloves particularly important. Do not attempt to replace the door without some safety gear, or you may injure yourself.
It’s a good idea to check your owner’s manual for instructions on replacing your door, as these will be specific to the microwave model that you own. If you don’t have the manual anymore, try researching it online; you will probably be able to find a downloadable option.
If there are no instructions in your manual, research your model number with the phrase “door replacement” or use the general guide above to help you. Most of the time, it will be sufficient, but a specific guide will usually be preferable.
However, even with a good guide, a microwave door replacement can be challenging, and if you are struggling with it, you might want to contact an expert. There are repair technicians out there who should be able to replace the door quickly and cheaply, and this is well worth looking into if you are struggling with the repair.
It may be a good idea if you are not confident in your repair skills or have never repaired anything electrical before. Although swapping a door can be fairly straightforward, getting help is better if you feel unsure about the process.
Conclusion
As long as you have the correct tools and take the right precautions, replacing your microwave door is not usually difficult.
It shouldn’t take very long, especially if the fascia is easy to remove, and it will save your microwave from the scrap. Finding an expert is usually preferable to throwing the appliance away if you can’t do it yourself.
If you’re reasonably confident about repairs, following the steps above will help you to replace the door easily and efficiently. Then your Kitchenaid microwave will be up and running again!