I have always considered myself somewhat of a handyman. Whenever something breaks in my house, my first instinct is to try and fix it myself before calling in the professionals. So when the handle on my Kenmore microwave broke the other day, I knew I had to tackle the problem myself.
Replacing the handle on a microwave may sound like a daunting task, but with a little know-how and the right tools, it can actually be a relatively easy job. In this step-by-step guide, I will walk you through the process of replacing the handle on a Kenmore microwave.
Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials
Before you begin, make sure you have all the tools and materials you will need to complete the job. Here’s a list to get you started:
Tools:
Materials:
Step 1: Unplug the Microwave
Safety should always come first when working with electrical appliances. Before you begin any repairs, make sure the microwave is completely disconnected from the power source. Unplug it from the wall or switch off the circuit breaker if necessary.
Step 2: Remove the Screws
To access the handle, you will need to remove the front panel of the microwave. Most microwaves have screws holding the panel in place. Using the appropriate screwdriver, carefully remove the screws and set them aside.
Step 3: Detach the Front Panel
Once the screws are removed, gently pull the front panel away from the microwave. Be careful not to force it or apply too much pressure, as you don’t want to damage any of the internal components.
Step 4: Locate and Remove the Broken Handle
With the front panel removed, you should now be able to see the broken handle. In most cases, the handle is held in place by screws or clips. Use your screwdriver or pliers to remove them and detach the broken handle from the microwave.
Step 5: Install the New Handle
With the old handle removed, it’s time to install the new one. Line up the screw holes or clips on the new handle with the corresponding holes on the microwave door. Use the screws or clips you removed earlier to secure the new handle in place.
Step 6: Reassemble the Microwave
Now that the new handle is installed, it’s time to put everything back together. Carefully reattach the front panel to the microwave, making sure it aligns properly with the rest of the unit. Use the screws you removed earlier to secure the panel in place.
Step 7: Plug in and Test
Once the microwave is reassembled, plug it back in or switch on the circuit breaker. Test the new handle to make sure it is secure and functional. If everything looks and works properly, congratulations! You have successfully replaced the handle on your Kenmore microwave.
Replacing the handle on a microwave may seem like a daunting task, but with a little patience and the right tools, it can be a relatively simple job. By following this step-by-step guide, you can save yourself the hassle and expense of calling a repairman. So the next time a handle breaks on your Kenmore microwave, don’t panic. Just grab your tools and get to work!