If you’re experiencing the H98 error on your Panasonic microwave oven, there are a couple of troubleshooting methods you can try to bring it back to its functional state.
With this in mind, here are a couple of ways you can do to fix the H98 error.
What is the Panasonic H98 Microwave Error Code?
Before we can fix the H98 error, we first need to understand what the error indicates. Commonly known as the H98 of death, the Panasonic H98 error code according to its handbook refers to a problem with the magnetron.
The magnetron is one of the main components of a microwave oven that basically heats up the food you put in it.
It could be a sign that the magnetron is not drawing enough power it needs to operate. It could also be a problem with the inverter circuitry.
Typically, when the magnetron is damaged, having it replaced may be more expensive than buying a new one.
If your product is no longer under warranty, it would be best to shop for a replacement instead.
You may also check with Panasonic’s customer support to have an estimate on the cost of having your microwave oven repaired, or get in touch with a local technician to know the price.
Panasonic’s microwave ovens are programmed with a self-diagnostics error code system to assist its users in troubleshooting and diagnosing the issue.
If an error code appears, it will be easy to determine what the problem is or what is causing it by looking it up on the manual of your product.
Have the magnetron checked for any issues
The magnetron utilizes high voltage, high current DC power in order to generate power and operate the microwave. Unfortunately, the magnetron can not be repaired and instead needs to be replaced.
If this is the issue, it’s important to note that the magnetron can store a very lethal amount of electricity in its high voltage capacitor.
With that said, if you do not have any experience in replacing this component or you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself, seek the services of a certified technician, or bring your microwave oven to the nearest Panasonic service center.
Signs that the magnetron is going bad:
There are telling signs to know if your microwave oven’s magnetron is about to go bad or is already malfunctioning. See below:
a. Sparks
Suppose you see sparking or arcing inside the microwave oven chamber.
In that case, it could be caused by a number of factors including the following: high mineral content in the food you’re heating, metal being present, food residue, or a metal cooking rack improperly placed.
However, there are also chances that sparks may be caused by malfunctioning electrical or mechanical parts including the magnetron.
b. Strange sounds coming from the microwave
Those who regularly use microwave ovens are probably already used to how it sounds when it’s operating normally. Older models might run very noisily, but if it makes very unusual sounds, it may already be a sign.
Sounds like a noisy hum or vibrating noise, an abnormal clicking sound, and grinding or groaning sounds can signify that there is already a problem with the magnetron or other important components of your microwave oven.
c. Microwave is refusing to start or is not heating food
If your microwave oven doesn’t want to start or if it does but there’s no heat generated when you turn it on, this could be a sign that there could be issues on the door switches, magnetron, or diode.
It’s also important to note that while there’s no heat or power on the microwave oven, that doesn’t mean that there’s no electricity. It can still electrocute you even when it’s already unplugged.
Bad door switches may be the reason
The H98 Error Code is one of the most common issues that occur in Panasonic microwave ovens. It’s also possible that there are other factors causing the error code to display.
However, this inevitably ends up with a faulty magnetron itself, a faulty inverter board, or one of the door switches not actuating properly.
The first thing you can check here is the door switches. You can start with unplugging the microwave oven and removing the control panel to get you access to the door switches. After that, check if the switches are burnt. You can try to replace them to see if that fixes the problem.
If you prefer to have it serviced, contact a qualified technician in your area or contact Panasonic’s technical support team to perform the fix or further check for other issues that may be causing the error code.
The oscillator coil is defective
A defective oscillator coil may be the reason why the error code is appearing on your microwave oven.
Unfortunately, if this is the component responsible for why the error code is appearing, it cannot be repaired by the average homeowner without proper electrical training.
As such, it would be advisable to get in touch with a Panasonic repairman or have a qualified technician visit your location to check for the issue.
Your microwave oven’s diode has already burned out
If the diode has burned out, it may be one of the reasons why it’s showing the error code.
The high voltage diode works hand in hand with the high voltage capacitor to convert the output to DC voltage and double its voltage. If this turns out, the magnetron won’t be able to receive enough power to operate in order to heat up the food you want to cook.
A good sign of the diode failing is to check if it’s visibly burned out. You can inspect the diode and replace it if you find that it’s burned out.
Just a word of warning, opening a microwave has risks of electrocution with lethal amounts of electricity. If you prefer that a professional do it instead, please get in touch with a local qualified technician or bring your microwave oven to a Panasonic service center.
There’s a problem with the inverter
In some cases, the machine-soldered connections on a microwave inverter may be too weak.
Over time, these may fail, leading to failure. Clicking or squealing noises are some of the signs of this. An electrical odor, which may also be obscured due to the cooling fan, may also be a sign.
It’s better to get a whole new inverter instead of having to work on repairing it as it is cheaper and there’s lesser work to boot.
Have it checked by a licensed technician for repairs or replacement, or bring it to a Panasonic service center to determine the costs or at least an estimate that will be incurred for the service.
The power cord may be damaged
Your microwave oven’s power cord may already be showing signs of damage.
First, remove the cabinet or cover of the Panasonic microwave.
Next, locate the power cord. Third, check the power cord for any signs of damage.
Check for exposed wires or cuts on the cord. If there’s any damage, replace the power cord.
Resetting might do the trick
While not always the case, resetting the microwave may fix some issues. The first thing you’ll want to do is to unplug the microwave from the power outlet. Wait for 30 seconds.
After that, remove the cover, and then locate the “Reset” button on the front panel. Once located, push the “Reset” button to reset the microwave.
Reset for service
Based on the manual, if the H98 error code appears twice or the H97 appears thrice, the microwave oven can not be used anymore, even if the defective parts are already replaced, unplug and plugin again.
To reset for service, the first thing you need to do is to plug in the oven.
Next, press the “Stop/Reset” pad or button once. Open the door.
After that, press the “Start” pad or button for more than 2 seconds until the buzzer beeps.
When done, press the “Stop/Reset” pad or button three times. Now press the “Start” pad or button once.
If you’re done with the steps, the display panel on your microwave oven should show “End.” If the issue persists, please contact the Panasonic service center or a certified technician for advice.
Check the door for any debris or dirt
One of the methods you can try is to inspect your Panasonic microwave if it’s clean and free of any debris.
First, remove the door by unscrewing the four screws that hold it in its position. After that, remove the seal of the door by pulling it off.
Next, clean the seal and the door with a clean cloth and a cleaning solution. If the door seal is damaged, you may need to replace it.
If it’s still within the warranty period, return it
Repairing a microwave oven, regardless of the brand, can pose some serious harm if done incorrectly. And acquiring the services of a licensed technician can also be costly. In this regard, if it’s still within the warranty period, it’s best to return it and have it replaced.
Source:
- https://www.errorsolutions.tech/error/panasonic-microwave-h98/
- https://www.fixya.com/support/t25120103-fix_error_h98_panasonic_microwave
- https://www.studiodessuantbone.com/articles/what-does-error-code-h98-mean-on-panasonic-microwave/
- Troubleshooting Guide – Panasonic NN-SE992S Service Manual [Page 14] | ManualsLi
