How Long does it Take for a Microwave Oven Capacitor to Discharge?

Intro In the 1970’s bleeder resistors on microwave oven high-voltage capacitors started coming into the picture amid safety concerns. By the early 1980’s they started becoming more standard. However, there are plenty of units out there without bleeder resistors, that can hold a charge for a very long time (weeks to even months), due to […]

Five ways to use Ohm’s Law in Appliance Repair

Understanding Ohm’s Law is not only essential for building a strong foundation in electrical theory but also serves as a valuable tool for diagnosing electrical problems. Although many technicians know about Ohm’s Law, some may not use it because they don’t see its relevance or don’t realize when it can be helpful. Ohm’s Law allows […]

How much does the Resistance of an Element Change when Hot?

Most heating elements like those in dryers and ovens utilize a wire made of nichrome, which is an alloy composed of nickel and chromium. It has a very high resistance per foot, a high mechanical strength when hot, and a very high melting point. It also has an extremely low temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR). […]

Thermal Inertia and the Oven Pre-heat

What does the term “Thermal Inertia” have to do with oven pre-heating? Quite a bit actually. You might have noticed that in many electric ranges, both the bake and broil elements work to preheat the oven, but not simultaneously. The Preheating Process For many electric ranges the preheating process involves both the bake and broil […]

Whirlpool Gas Dryer Ignition Circuit Theory and Troubleshooting

This blog will describe step by step, how the standard Whirlpool gas dryer ignition circuit works, along with its common failures and associated diagnostic approaches. Disclaimer: THIS BLOG IS INTENDED FOR APPLIANCE TECHNICIANS AND IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. ALWAYS FOLLOW PROPER SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WHEN WORKING WITH GAS AND ELECTRICITY. USE THE CONCEPTS DISCUSSED AT […]