GE OTR Microwave died. Replacing it and maybe Range too, suggestions?

3 years ago

last modified: 3 years ago

Back in 2002 we installed a GE Profile Range (Bisque, Smooth Top, Convection) and also a GE Profile OTR microwave. In 2010 the Magnetron in the Microwave went bad (wouldn't heat but still had power). So we replaced it with a GE Profile Convection Microwave in Stainless, and we had hoped to replace the Bisque color Range.

Now 10 years later, we still have the same Range, as we've had to replace the Miele Dishwasher with another Miele, and new Maytag 575 Washer & Dryer. But last week the Microwave completely lost power when I went to microwave something - all power to the unit is out. I ordered and installed a new Main Line fuse in the Microwave and other round-silver "thermometers". Doing this did regain power to the unit, but once I engaged the microwave, it all went dead again. So it's either the Magnetron or the High Voltage Converter, would be my guess.

So that leaves us with either having GE Repair come and fix it (have to get a quote from them on Thursday) OR replace the microwave (again).

If I stayed with GE, the similar model of Convection Microwave would be PVM9179SKSS and goes for about $550 local. But since I haven't used the "convection" part in years, I don't really need that, so then the model PVM9215SKSS (non-convection) would be next at about $530 (not much of a price difference), followed by the JVM7195SKSS $300 and JVM6175YKFS $280. Keep in mind the only GE microwave with fingerprint resistant stainless is the bottom model JVM6175YKFS (not sure why).

One thing I noticed is that my old model had a Manufacture 5 Year Parts Warranty on the Magnetron, but now it is just 1 year on the new models (a way for GE to save money). LG and Samsung have a 10 year Magnetron Parts Warranty, but their Microwaves don't see to last very long and seem to have quality issues based on reviews that I've seen.

Now with (maybe) replacing the Microwave (if the cost to fix is over $250), we're also thinking it may be time to replace the (still working) bisque GE Profile Range with a new model, so it will all match. For years we had wanted to go the Induction route, but now we're just not sure, even through we have (some) new cookware that is induction ready, we have a lot of older items, pots, pressure cooker, roasters that would not work with induction - not to mention the price difference of the Range. The GE Profile Induction slide-in model PHS930SLSS is $2500, but instead the radiant heat model PSS93YPFS is on sale at $1600.

Based on that, would probably go with the PSS93YPFS, and is uses the same smooth glass touch controls for the burners and the oven - though I wonder how well these "glass touch" controls are made and would last over time compared to standard knob dials for the burners.

Based on that, I looked at the GE Cafe model CES700P2MS1 since it has the burner knobs on the front and is also $1600 - but then the Cafe Microwaves cost a few hundred more than the Profile.

So at this point I'm not sure what to do. First waiting to see this Thursday when the tech come out how much it would be to just fix the old microwave. And if it is too much, then look at replacing it - and maybe the range too (or later this year) so they match.

All I'm wanting to know is if price difference between Cafe over Profile is worth it?

On the PSS93YPFS Range with touch controls (same as onPHS930SLSS), is that a concern for issues down the road - would knob dials be better?

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (5)

wdccruise
3 years ago
The Whirlpool WMH53521HZ did well in Consumer Reports testing and Home Depot (and Best Buy) owners seem to like it. You can add a "protection policy" to add coverage beyond the 1-year warranty provided by Whirlpool.
Toronto Veterinarian
3 years ago
Go with induction. If you cook meals (as opposed to just heat stuff up and boil water), you'll love induction. Yes, I had to replace about 4 or 5 items to use the induction stove top, but that cost a few hundred dollars and was well worth it. I can't express how much I love my induction range, and will never go back to radiant heat again. (In fact, I hated my radiant heat stove so much, I replaced the range with an old coil electric, which was a little better.)

I haven't used a microwave in years, so I can't comment on that part of your question.
Related Discussions
otr microwave hood cfm and loudness
Q
Comments (5)
Consumer Reports has a detailed article on OTRs. If I remember correctly, they compare them. Their overall statement, which I believe is available free on their website, states that OTRs are not the way to go because they do not exhaust very effectively. But you'll have to subscribe or go your local library to read the article that compares specific models. Your interest in a Bluestar suggests that you take cooking seriously, whether you buy one or something else. You should plan, therefore, on getting a rangehood that exhausts at least 300 cfm to the outside, and pay special attention to the exhaust duct. Some recommend up to 600 cfm or more, but if your kitchen is small and you don't plan dinner parties for 8 or more people once a week, that would be overkill. One of the more pricey OTRs (I forget which one: maybe DCS) includes 2 fan motors, one adjacent to the microwave unit and the other remotely located. I don't know how noisy it is, but if you can operate just the remote fan motor, it might be pretty quiet. You'll pay a lot for that one, but it is still a compromise because you really cannot have a good exhaust system OTR. A vent system with the fan motor located remotely, say, in the attic just inside the opening through which the exhaust is dumped to the outside, would be ideal because they are much quieter than those with the motor in the hood. The other consideration for judging noise level is how large the air intake vents are. The larger they are the better because they'll catch more smoke and heat from your cooking and because you'll hear less of the noise of rushing air. Broan's "Best" product line is one possibility, but there are others.
...See More
Which OTR Microwave do you hate the least?
Q
Comments (16)
I had GE OTR microwaves in my previous home. The first one had a recall on it and techs fixed it free, of course. Then we got rid of all the almond appliances a year ago and bought all GE since we turned the house into a rental. Never a problem with the GE OTRs in 11 years. We built a new house in the mountains of New Mexico and I outfitted the kitchen with mid-range appliances in 2010. By far my favorite is the GE Profile Advantium 120 microwave-oven combo. It's mounted at countertop height in the wall near my Maytag Gemini gas (LP) range. I was always short on ovens in every other home, not now! I have a small upper oven and a large convection oven in the range, plus the versatility of the Advantium that gives me microwave, convection oven, speedcook, and warming oven. For small items or toasting I use the countertop toaster oven. Caveat: when the Advantium was first pulled out of the box the lower right hinge didn't work correctly. I thought it would be a simple fix, so let the installers leave. Mistake! The guy the appliance store sent out the following week tried to fix the hinge without the right tool (specialized one he didn't have in his kit) and he scarred my cabinet AND the Advantium. Fortunately, I had the appliances department manager as my salesman, so the appliance store replaced the oven and we re-installed it ourselves (piece of cake, just plug it in, slide it in the wall, screw in a few screws to hold in place). Re-installing an OTR would be a different matter entirely. Anyway, I do recommend the Profile Advantium 120, and think an OTR unit would be a good choice for you. There is a learning curve and the instructions must be followed carefully regarding which trays to use for microwave (glass) vs. convection and speedcook (metal tray). What I definitely don't recommend is any gas range with a black porcelain top surface, it's impossible to keep clean looking. I'm happy with the performance and two ovens on my Maytag Gemini, there weren't many double-oven ranges on the market when I bought 20 months ago. I would look hard for a unit with a stainless top if I had it to do over.
...See More
? about otr microwave not used otr
Q
Comments (3)
Seems like the faucet is too high for the micro to be the level you want. Could you get a lower faucet and then move the whole cabinet lower, too? Or maybe just the shelf? OTR micros are more expensive than countertop ones, probably because of the fan. It doesn't seem necessary for you to spend that extra money just to get the lighting -- you could put some kind of light under the shelf for probably a lot less.
...See More
Replacing range hood w/ OTR microwave ?
Q
Comments (16)
Jeri, thanks for the encouragement! If I was replacing an OTR w/ another, I would try to do it myself. I just have a regular old standard range hood now, and that's why I posted the original question. If it needs a dedicated circuit (thanks rnmomof2, that's what I was trying to say!), then that's why I guess my co-worker got such a high estimate (the extra electrical work). Buehl, no I have a regular coil electric stove. I'm still not ready to move into the smooth top era - LOL! Re the venting - I have that tiny cabinet over the stove, Open it up, and there's a vent pipe that elbows into the wall. I thought it vented to the roof, is that not right? Does it just vent into the wall? Anyway, I don't fry much at all, so I don't have problems w/ grease or anything. The vent is usually used for steam and smells. If I did go this route, I would save the range hood, so if I sold and the buyers wanted to put it back in, they could. The range hood is actually 9 years old, but it looks brand new (since I dont fry, lol!) Guess I'll just have to break done and call an electrician to find out for sure what has to be done to switch over. Thanks everybody!
...See More
kevinande
3 years ago
I would just replace the microwave. The cost of repairs, time and effort vs a new microwave seem to be a no brainer. My guess for a trip charge, parts and labor you will be quickly arrive at the $250 mark.

As far as the range, knobs vs touch. The only difference is the actual interface itself. Even knobs are electronically controlled. Given that fact, the choice is merely one of whichever appeals to you. I personally prefer knobs as well, however there are not nearly as many choices with knobs as there are with touch controls. Induction is a bit higher price point, but once you have used it, you will never look back. You can buy a product called an Induction disc that will allow you to use you beloved older pans on the induction range. (The one in the link is one of the higher priced ones, they can be had for as little as $10.) Although they effectively remove most of the benefits of induction such as response time, it is an effective option. Give induction a try you will be happy you did.
delray33483
3 years ago
absolutely go induction. the difference is worth it. Yes, you have to throw out a few pots and pans but that is small potatoes when you look at the performance difference of induction vs radiant. Take a look at the pans that you really use everyday and get those as induction capable. You can go to TJMaxx or Home Goods and find decent replacements at low cost

I wouldn't go with knobs if I had the option. Glass surface is robust and easier to clean.

we don't have a MW in our second home and don't miss it at all. It was for reheating coffee and leftovers. We went with a stronger vent hood that gets all the grease out. The trade off of cleaning grease from everything (old MW with low power fan) to a clean kitchen is worth it
fauguy
Original Author
3 years ago
We had a GE Tech come out earlier in the week. He said the High Voltage Transformer and Magnetron would need to be replaced. Total for parts and labor was a little over $500, and he said we're better off just buying a new model. And he was nice enough not to charge us the $100 house call.

So we went out looking at OTR microwaves (and ranges). Personally, the new models from GE didn't look as good and felt cheap, more plastic (door handle) and less metal. The Samsung unit felt better made. As we were looking in the under $400 price range.

I then looked up the parts to fix mine, and it came to about $200. So I took the microwave down and opened it up, to first see if I could get to the parts that need replacing. I was able to remove both the High Voltage Transformer and Magnetron, so ordered new ones, along with a few other internal parts.

I should have them all next week to install and hope that it works (will test first before installing the unit back over the range).

GE OTR Microwave died. Replacing it and maybe Range too, suggestions?

Comments (5)

wdccruise

Toronto Veterinarian

Related Discussions

kevinande

delray33483

fauguy
Original Author

COMPANY

BUSINESS SERVICES

GET HELP

CONNECT WITH US

GE OTR Microwave died. Replacing it and maybe Range too, suggestions?

Comments (5)

wdccruise

Toronto Veterinarian

Related Discussions

kevinande

delray33483

fauguyOriginal Author

COMPANY

BUSINESS SERVICES

GET HELP

CONNECT WITH US

fauguy
Original Author