Toshiba microwave keeps blowing the fuse
Bought a Toshiba microwave (ML-EM23P(BS)) 6 months ago and it trips the plug fuse / RCD as soon as I start it. Is it worth repairing or should I just replace it?
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Toshiba ML-EM23P(BS) microwave trips fuse/RCD when started
- The problem
- A Toshiba microwave, model ML-EM23P(BS), reportedly blows the plug fuse or trips the RCD as soon as cooking is started. The unit is only about 6 months old.
- Likely cause
- The accepted diagnosis was an internal serious fault, most likely in the high-voltage or mains-side circuit. Suggested possibilities included the high-voltage capacitor, high-voltage diode, transformer, magnetron, door interlock switch assembly, or mains filter, but no specific failed part was confirmed.
- What fixed it
- Stop using the microwave and do not keep retrying it. Check whether the same fault occurs on another known-good socket only to rule out a socket or house wiring issue. Because the appliance is only 6 months old, the recommended action was to pursue a retailer or manufacturer warranty claim rather than attempt DIY repair or immediate replacement. The exact repair was not confirmed.
- Checks to try
- Observed that the fault occurs as soon as Start is pressed
- Noted whether it blows a 13A plug fuse or trips the RCD/RCBO
- Suggested trying it on another known-good socket to rule out a supply/socket issue
Safety: Do not open or internally test the microwave. Microwaves contain dangerous high-voltage components even when unplugged. Further diagnosis should be carried out by a suitably qualified appliance engineer.
1 Answer
If it trips as soon as you press Start, that usually points to a serious high-voltage or mains-side fault rather than something simple like the door not being shut properly. At only 6 months old, I would not suggest replacing it yet.
1. Check exactly what is tripping - If it blows the 13A plug fuse, that suggests a heavy short or major component failure. - If it trips the RCD/RCBO, that can indicate leakage to earth. - Try it in another known-good socket if possible, just to rule out a house wiring/socket issue.
2. Do not keep trying it - Repeated testing can worsen damage. If it fails immediately every time, stop using it.
3. Consider the most likely internal causes - Common suspects are the high-voltage capacitor, high-voltage diode, transformer, magnetron, door interlock switch assembly, or mains filter. - If it trips the instant cooking starts, the fault is often in the high-voltage circuit.
4. Is it worth repairing? - Financially, on a budget countertop microwave, out-of-warranty repair often isn’t worthwhile. - But at 6 months old, it should still be under the retailer/manufacturer guarantee, so this is really a warranty claim rather than a repair-vs-replace decision.
5. Best next step - Contact the seller first, then Toshiba support, and report that it trips the fuse/RCD when cooking starts. - Do not open it yourself.
Important safety note: isolate it from the mains before inspecting anything, and in this case I do not recommend internal DIY checks. Microwaves contain dangerous high-voltage components even when unplugged. Use a qualified engineer for any internal mains work.
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This answer was generated automatically by the WhitegoodsHelp AI Assistant. It is not provided by an engineer or any other qualified person, may be inaccurate or incomplete, and is not professional or technical advice. Do not rely on it. Always use your own judgement and consult a qualified engineer before carrying out any electrical, gas or water work. Use is entirely at your own risk. See our full Terms of Use.
SAFETY FIRST: READ BEFORE ACTING ON THIS GUIDANCE
Never work on a live appliance
Always unplug it at the mains before going near it with any tools.
Never attempt gas work
By law, gas appliances must only be worked on by a Gas Safe registered engineer. If your fault involves gas, stop and call a professional. Do not attempt it yourself.
Watch for sharp edges
Outer panels are smooth, but internal parts have sharp machined edges. Wear protective gloves and arm sleeves.
Water appliances can leak
Turn off the water supply before disconnecting any hoses.
Know your limits
If you are not confident testing or working inside the appliance, stop and call a professional.
AI guidance, not guaranteed
This response is generated automatically by the WhitegoodsHelp AI Assistant. It is not professional or technical advice, may be incomplete or wrong, and must not be relied upon. Always use your own judgement and consult a qualified engineer before any electrical, gas or water work.
This is general information only and is not professional advice. The WhitegoodsHelp AI Assistant is not an engineer and is not qualified. See our full Terms of Use.
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