How to Fix a GE Microwave Oven

Take a look behind the microwave at the power cord and outlet. Ensure the cord is tightly connected to the outlet and not hanging loose. Switch on the outlet if a power switch is included within its plastic cover or situated elsewhere in your kitchen. Some homes are fitted with power switches for major appliances.

Check your home's fuses or breakers for faults. A blown fuse or tripped breaker cuts off the power to certain circuits within your home. The microwave won't work if the fuse or breaker protecting the circuit isn't operational. Call an electrician if you don't know how to change a fuse or reset a breaker.

Tap the "Clear/Off" button until the oven returns to standby mode, showing the time. You might have entered incorrect cooking instructions or accidentally scrambled the internal computer. Unplug the oven for a few minutes if tapping "Clear/Off" doesn't return the oven to standby.

Take the glass cooking plate and turntable out of the oven. Clean the inside with a soft, soapy cloth, removing all traces off food. Wash the plate and turntable in hot, soapy water and dry with a kitchen towel. Let the microwave dry and reinstall the turntable and plate. Food residue restricts the turntable and sometimes causes arcing.

Set the clock -- functions like "Delay Start" and "Reminder" need to know the correct time. Press "Clock" then enter the current time using the number buttons; 2:30 p.m. is entered as "230." Tap "AM/PM" until the correct option appears on the screen. Hit "Start," confirming your new settings.

Cancel "Child Lockout" mode -- hold down "Clear/Off" for a few seconds. The letter "L" appears on the screen while the child lock is active. The oven won't respond to any input until the lock is canceled. Repeating this step reactivates the child lock.