Unwilling to Repair: The Microwave

My LG over-the-range microwave failed after 15 years.  It showed an F-5 code which is associated with the humidity sensor.  I had replaced the humidity sensor in the previous countertop microwave - it worked for several years until it was replaced to increase countertop space.

A replacement LG humidity sensor cost about C$65.  The microwave hooks to a frame attached to the wall and attaches to the cabinet above with two screws.  The exhaust connects to a vent in the wall.  After dismounting the microwave, removing the outer case was relatively easy (I found a service manual) as was accessing the humidity sensor.  Routing the sensor wire to the control board at the opposite side was more of challenge due to the tangle of other wires and wiring clips.  I ended up cutting the old sensor wire and using it to pull the new sensor wire into position.

Sadly, the replacement sensor did not solve the problem.  I had tested the humidity sensor, which meant that the control unit was likey the culprit.  Replacement control units with shipping are about C$200 with no confirmed delivery date (special order).  Also, working on the innards of the microwave was an unpleasant experience due to the fifteen years of grease buildup.

In this case, the cost of repairs and the impact of not having a working microwave (not just the inability to reheat coffee but also the lack of a range hood) was hard to justify.  I would also be working close to the magnetron - I might accidentally dislodge something that could affect the safe operation of the appliance.

Fortunately, I was able to find a replacement LG that got good reviews, had a price that was hard to beat, and most importantly, used the same backplate design - an LG that had a slightly larger capacity would have meant removing tiles in the backsplash.  I swapped the frame that mounts to the wall using the same bolt holes, and the exhaust lined up with the existing wall vent.  I did need to drill new holes for the screws from the upper cabinet to the microwave.