Key Takeaways
- Always defer to any troubleshooting or reset instructions in your microwave manual.
- You might be able to press the Clear, Cancel, etc. button until the display shows the microwave is resetting, but check your manual first.
- Unplugging a corded microwave or turning off the breaker for a hard-wired microwave for five to 10 minutes can reset the appliance.
- Some microwaves have a feature that restores the appliance to factory settings.
- Test the microwave functions and controls.
- If the problem continues or recurs, contact the manufacturer or a professional repair service.
When to Reset a Microwave
Any time you have a problem with your microwave, start with the manual. There should be troubleshooting tips that can fix common problems. Also look for steps for resetting your microwave. We offer general tips for resetting a microwave but always follow the instructions and cautions in your manual.
Common reasons for resetting a microwave include:
- Unresponsive buttons
- Error codes on the display
- Recovering from a power outage
- The microwave not starting
If resetting the microwave doesn’t fix the problem or if you’re not comfortable resetting a microwave, contact the manufacturer or a professional repair service.
Unresponsive controls might mean you’ve accidentally engaged a child-safety feature. Check your manual for steps to release the lock.
3 Ways to Reset a Microwave
Different models and brands of microwaves operate differently and have specific troubleshooting steps. Some reset functions aren’t available on all microwaves, and the names of buttons and functions vary. Use these tips as a general guide only. Follow the instructions in your microwave manual.
Resetting a microwave likely erases any memory settings, wireless connections and mobile app pairing, so be ready to restore those after the reset.
Reset Your Microwave at the Control Panel
If your microwave has a soft reset feature, this is often the quickest and easiest way to reset the microwave:
- Press or press and hold — depending on your model — the Clear or Cancel button on the control panel.
- When the display panel clears or indicates the microwave is resetting, release the button.
Try a Factory Reset on Your Microwave
Some microwave models have a function that lets you restore the microwave to factory settings:
- Press or hold the button that opens the settings menu.
- Scroll through the settings until you see Factory Reset or a similar item.
- Select Factory Reset and confirm the selection if necessary.
Unplug the Microwave or Disconnect It From Power
If your microwave doesn’t have a soft reset or factory reset feature, you can try a hard reset by disconnecting it from power:
- Unplug the microwave, or, for hard-wired models, flip the circuit breaker off.
- Wait five to 10 minutes to allow capacitors supplying power to the control panel to discharge completely.
- Plug the microwave back in or turn the breaker back on.
Make sure your hands are dry before unplugging the microwave or opening the breaker box.
Next Steps After Resetting a Microwave
After resetting a microwave, test it to see if the reset fixed the appliance. Your manual might have steps for testing the microwave, but in general:
- Make sure the microwave heats according to the instructions.
- Make sure the buttons work as described in the manual.
- Set the clock and make sure it keeps time correctly.
If everything works, you might need to restore any custom settings and reconnect the appliance to your wireless network, depending on the model.
When to Contact the Microwave Manufacturer
If the microwave doesn’t work as expected or works normally for a period of time before the same issue occurs again, the problem is more serious. It’s time to contact the manufacturer or have a professional check the microwave.
Never open a microwave housing or attempt to make internal repairs.
Retting or Replacing a Microwave
Resetting a microwave is a relatively simple process that can solve minor problems. But if it’s time to replace your microwave, take a look at our microwave oven guide and shop Lowes.com for a replacement or an upgraded model. Stop by your local Lowe’s, where a Red Vest associate can show you the latest microwaves and explain their features. They’ll help you find a new microwave that meets your cooking needs now and in the future. If you need a new over-the-range model, they can show you microwaves with installation available and help you set up professional installation.
Microwave Reset FAQ
If your microwave isn’t working, the answers to these questions might give you a quick fix.
How Do I Reset My Microwave?
Start by checking your manual for troubleshooting or reset instructions. Typically, there are three possible methods, depending on the microwave model: pressing the Clear or Cancel button to do a soft reset, disconnecting the microwave from power for five to 10 minutes, and performing a reset to return the microwave to factory settings. Always follow the steps for your model.
What Does Resetting a Microwave Do?
Resetting a microwave restarts the software that controls the appliance and can fix some of these issues. But these symptoms might point to a more serious problem. If resetting doesn’t work, contact the manufacturer or a professional repair service.
Is There a Reset Button on a Microwave?
Most microwaves don’t have a specific Reset button, but some models allow you to do a soft reset of the appliance by pressing or pressing and holding the Clear or Cancel button, according to the instructions. Check your manual to see if your microwave has this feature.
How Long Should I Leave My Microwave Unplugged to Reset It?
Leave the microwave unplugged for at least five minutes. In some cases, you might need to leave it unplugged for up to 10 minutes. The time allows any capacitors providing power to the controls to discharge, so the controls can reset fully.
How Do I Reset My Microwave After a Power Outage?
In most cases, you just need to reset your microwave clock according to the instructions in the manual. If the microwave isn’t working or displays an error code, check your manual for troubleshooting and resetting tips. If you need to reset the microwave, you can typically either press or press and hold the Clear or Cancel button, disconnect the microwave from power for five to 10 minutes, or perform a factory reset, but always follow any manufacturer’s instructions.
Will Resetting a Microwave Fix an Error Code?
Resetting a microwave can fix some error codes but check your manual before trying a reset. Your manual might have troubleshooting steps for the code or specific instructions on resetting the microwave. If you’re not able to clear the error code, contact the manufacturer or a professional repair service.
What Should I Do if Resetting My Microwave Doesn’t Fix It?
If you can’t fix the problem by following the manufacturer’s troubleshooting steps and resetting your microwave, contact the manufacturer for more tips or call a professional repair service.