Some LG microwave users may have experienced a problem with the keypad not responding when they pressed the buttons on one or two occasions. This can be very frustrating and prevent you from using your microwave correctly. Several potential remedies are available to rectify this problem and reinstate your microwave to its standard operating state.
I will explain the common causes of LG microwave keypad problems, how to troubleshoot them, and how to replace faulty parts if needed. I will also provide tips on maintaining your microwave keypad and preventing future problems. Following this guide, you can fix your LG microwave keypad and save money on professional repairs.
What Causes LG Microwave Keypad Problems?
The keypad of your LG microwave is connected to the control board, which is the brain of your microwave. The control board receives the signals from the keypad and executes the commands you enter. The keypad consists of two layers of plastic membrane with a conductive coating inside. When you press a button, the two layers touch and create an electrical current sent to the control board.
However, the membrane can wear out over time and lose its conductivity. This can result in some buttons not working or the keypad not responding. Another possible cause of keypad problems is the child lock feature, designed to prevent children’s accidental microwaves.use If the child lock is activated, the keypad will only respond if you deactivate it first. There are other possible causes of keypad problems, which I have listed below.
- Loose or damaged wiring.
- A faulty user control panel.
- A defective main control board.
These issues can seriously affect the inter-communication between the keypad and the control board or prevent the control board from functioning correctly.
How to Troubleshoot LG Microwave Keypad Problems
Before you attempt to fix your LG microwave keypad, try to troubleshoot the problem and identify the source of the issue.
Check the child lock feature
If your microwave has a child lock feature, it may be activated, preventing the keypad from working. For you to quickly deactivate the child lock features, gently press then hold the [START/ENTER] button for about 4 seconds until the L indicator or a lock icon disappears from the display.
If your microwave has no lock indicator on the [STOP/CLEAR] button, refer to your owner’s manual for instructions on deactivating the child lock.
Unplug the microwave and plug it back in
A simple power reset can sometimes fix minor glitches and restore the keypad to normal functioning. Unplug the microwave from the power outlet for 2 to 3 minutes, then plug it back in and try the keypad again.
Test each button individually
If some buttons work and others don’t, you may have a worn-out membrane that needs to be replaced. To test each button, press it and listen for a beep sound. If the controller does not beep, it is not working. To verify the accuracy of the command, you can inspect the display and ensure that the button registers the appropriate function. If the controller does not display the proper order, it is not working.
Inspect the wiring and the control board
If none of the buttons work or the keypad is completely unresponsive, you may have a problem with the wiring or the control board.
To inspect these parts, remove the microwave from the wall or cabinet and remove the outer cover. Be careful not to touch live wires or capacitors, as they can store high voltage even when the microwave is unplugged.
Look for loose, burnt, or damaged wires, and reconnect or replace them if needed. Also, look for any signs of damage or corrosion on the control board, such as burnt spots, bulging capacitors, or broken solder joints. If the control board is damaged, you will need to replace it.
How to Replace LG Microwave Keypad
If you have determined that the keypad is the source of the problem and want to replace it yourself, you will need to order a new keypad compatible with your microwave model.
You can find the model number of your microwave on the label inside the door or on the back of the unit. You can also search for the part online using the model number and the keywords “G microwave keypad.” To get this done, follow the steps below.
- Disconnect the microwave from its power source and extract it from the wall or cabinet it is mounted on. Place it on a flat and stable surface, and remove the screws that secure the outer cover. Lift off the body and set it aside.
- Locate the control panel, which is the part that holds the keypad and the display. It is usually attached to the front of the microwave with screws or clips. Remove the screws or rivets and carefully pull off the control panel. Be careful not to damage the wires that connect the control panel to the control board.
- Disconnect the cables from the control panel and the control board. You may need to use a pair of needle-nose pliers to do this. Make sure to label the wires or take a picture of how they are connected so you can reconnect them correctly later.
- Remove the old keypad from the control panel. The keypad is usually held in place by adhesive tape or glue. You may need a hair dryer or a heat gun to soften the adhesive and pry off the keypad with a flat-head screwdriver or a plastic spatula. Be careful not to damage the control panel or the display.
- Clean the control panel and the presentation with a soft cloth and rubbing alcohol. Before installing the new keypad, it is essential to eliminate any traces of residue or dirt that could hinder its functionality.
- Peel off the protective film from the new keypad and align it with the control panel. Ensure the buttons match the holes on the control panel and the display. Press the keypad firmly onto the control panel and smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles.
- Reconnect the wires to the control panel and the control board. Make sure to follow the labels or the picture that you took earlier. Secure the control panel to the front of the microwave with the screws or clips that you removed earlier.
- Replace the outer cover and the screws that hold it in place. Plug in the microwave and test the keypad. If the keypad works properly, you have successfully replaced it. If not, you may have a problem with the control board or the wiring, and you may need to contact a professional for further assistance.
How to Maintain Your LG Microwave Keypad
To prevent future problems with your LG microwave keypad, you should follow some simple maintenance tips that will help you keep it in good condition.
- Clean the keypad regularly with a damp cloth and some mild soap. Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or spray cleaners, as they can damage the membrane or the display. Wipe off spills or splatters immediately, and dry the keypad with a soft cloth.
- It is recommended to avoid exerting too much force or utilizing the buttons excessively. This can wear out the membrane and reduce its conductivity. Press the buttons gently and only as long as necessary to enter the command.
- Avoid exposing the keypad to extreme temperatures, humidity, or sunlight. This can cause the membrane to warp, crack, or peel off. Keep the microwave away from heat, water, or direct sunlight.
- Use the child lock feature if you have children or pets. This will prevent them from accidentally using the microwave or damaging the keypad. To activate the child lock, press and hold the [START/ENTER] button for about 4 seconds until the L indicator or a lock icon appears on the display. To deactivate it, repeat the same process.
Conclusion
By closely following the steps I have provided, I am confident that this guide has enabled you to successfully rectify your LG microwave keypad and take preventive measures against potential issues in the future.
Following this guide lets you enjoy your microwave for a long time and save money on repairs or even purchasing a new microwave which I believe none of us want to spend that kind of money when we have a better and cheaper alternative.
