In the latest reliability survey, Whirlpool was one of the most reliable over-the-range microwave brands, with only a few customer reports reporting breakages before five years of use.
But sometimes, it just happens that the microwave door is jammed, or it constantly shows the door error despite being shut click and tight.
Sometimes, when the microwave door error appears on the display panel, it might be because the door has been closed for 5 minutes or more without the microwave oven being started. At other times, the reason might be entirely different.
Thus, let us dive deeper into this and see how you can fix the door error on your Whirlpool microwave.
Whirlpool Microwave Door Error Fix
Usually, the Whirlpool microwave door error shows up if the door is closed for five minutes or more but the microwave is not started. An intrusion might stop the door from being shut tight at other times.
You can take the following steps in case of a door error.
1. Check The Door Seal For Shipping Spacer
Always double-check there is no residual shipping spacer obstructing the microwave door. It is one of the most common reasons why the appliance is not heating up.
This is one of the biggest reasons why there is a door error on the brand-new Whirlpool microwave.
When your microwave is not heating up, your first response should be to check if it is plugged into a functioning outlet.
After this, ensure you are pressing cooking time after turning your microwave on. Then, press the numbers on the timer to start the heating process.
Suppose this does not work, and your microwave is brand new. In that case, chances are the shipping spacer is obstructing the door from fully closing and, thus, not heating the food properly.
This is generally on the outside of the microwave, where your door closes with a click.
Make sure to remove all the packaging from the microwave before using it. Turn the appliance on only if you hear the doors clicking into place.
2. Check For Any Buildup On The Door Contact Area
Sometimes foreign dirt particles might get stuck between the door and the lock, thus preventing it from closing correctly. This is why the door error might be displayed on the panel.
When the microwave is old and neither cleaned properly nor serviced regularly, dust or buildup from the food might get stuck around the door.
If there is an excessive amount of dirt and grime near the contacts of the door, the error code will show up. This will cause the door not to close correctly, and the microwave will also stop working.
Pay close attention to regularly cleaning near the door contacts to fix this. Make sure to unplug the microwave from its power supply so you can clean it without worrying about accidents.
3. Test The Control Panel
You can test the control board by sampling the motor control board with a multimeter. You can also check the wire harness between the switch and the control module.
Here’s how to check the motor control board.
- Unplug the microwave from the power outlet.
- Then open the control panel and locate the motor control board.
- Begin by testing the motor control board with a multimeter.
- Check for continuity between the terminals on the board.
- If there is continuity, then the board is most likely functional.
- If there is no continuity, the board will need to be replaced.
- Check if the wire harness, located between the pressure switch and the control module, has continuity.
- If not, return it and reattach it back.
Make sure to keep the motor control board neat. It can cause more damage to the appliance if not taken care of properly.
A good quality motor control board can cost up to $250 to $400, but you can also find a local one at about $100 per piece.
4. Check The Exhaust Systems
Check the exhaust fans of the microwave. Faulty exhaust fans can cause a door error in your microwave.
Cleaning exhaust systems regularly is an integral part of your microwave care. Though it is not as effective as the stove hood, clean exhaust systems will help with the door error on your Whirlpool microwave.
Switch to exhaust during cooking in the microwave, so moisture from pans and pots cannot be emitted to damage the interior. The moisture development can damage the microwave and wear out the contacts much quicker, causing the door error.
Make sure to keep your microwave in a ventilated space instead of cooped up in a dingy corner.
5. Check The Temperature Of The Microwave
An overheated microwave can also show door error codes to prevent any casualty.
The whirlpool microwaves can get overheated due to various factors. This generally happens with older models. However, it is also possible if you need to care appropriately for new microwaves.
If your device gets overheated frequently, call for a technician or a professional to look into this.
You can contact the Whirlpool customer care service at 1-866-698-2538 or on their website.
Is Cleaning The Grease Filters Of A Microwave Important?
Yes, it is essential to clean the grease filters regularly.
The grease filters are usually located at the bottom of the microwave. They capture residual grease from your microwave and lead to debris development.
This leads to the microwave’s inefficient functioning, affecting the door too.
Thus, it is essential to clean the grease filters. You can submerge them in an industrial cleaning agent or a homemade solution of equal vinegar and water.
Make sure to wear gloves while doing so, as it is difficult to remove grease from your skin and clothes.
Final Remarks
It is frustrating when you want a quick breakfast before work, and suddenly the microwave continuously shows the door error.
Luckily, despite being a complex machine, there are chances that the problem can be solved at home very easily with several proven fixes:
- Check the door seal for shipping spacer
- Check for any buildup on the door contact area
- Test the control panel
- Check the exhaust systems
- Check the temperature of the microwave
My name is Rick Kinney and I am the founder of ExHandyman. I have worked as a handyman for many years, and fixing stuff is my greatest pleasure in life.