I don't know where you got the information that the high voltage capacitor takes 24 hours to discharge. The capacitor will actually discharge after a few minutes. If in doubt as to whether or not a capacitor is still charged, however, you should short the capacitor to discharge it. You do this by fashioning yourself a grounding probe:
1. Take a screwdriver and a set of alligator clips with a wire.
2. Connect an alligator clip to either end of the wire.
3. Connect one clip to the screwdriver and the other end to equipment ground.
4. Short the screwdriver across the capacitor terminals.
If the capactor casing is grounded (mounted to the equipment chassis) you only need to take a screwdriver and touch each across each terminal to the capacitor case.
CAUTION: Make sure the unit is UNPLUGGED prior to servicing any components inside the HV network. The HV network consists of the HV Capacitor, Magnetron, HV Diode and HV Transformer.
If you still have questions, please post back and let me know. I hope you find this information helpful.
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If the unit has been unplugged all this time, there should be NO shock hazard. Capacitors have the capability of storing a charge, but most that are in appliances do not store a charge for a long time. In most cases, these capacitors will discharge on their own a few minutes after removing power from the appliance. However, if you are still concerned, use a pair of needlenose pliers with insulated handles to remove the insulated terminals from the capacitor. Then, ground the exposed terminals of the capacitor in the manner that I have already described. I hope this helps you.
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Investigate these three areas if your microwave won't heat but you hear a loud buzzing or humming noise:
Power Diode
A diode is an electronic component that readily
passes current in one direction only and blocks the flow of current in
the opposing direction. If your microwave's diode has become defective,
your microwave will not heat and you will hear a buzzing noise. Test the
diode to determine if this is the cause of your problem. Replace it if
it is defective.
High Voltage Capacitor
A capacitor is an electrical device which stores
electricity. A defective capacitor may be why your microwave is not
heating but you are hearing a buzzing or humming noise. The capacitor
will have to be tested to determine if this is the cause of your
problem. A defective capacitor will have to be replaced before your
microwave will work again. Make sure you discharge the capacitor before you test it, though.
Magnetron
A defective magnetron is the third possible cause of
why your microwave is not heating, but you can hear a buzzing noise.
Test your microwave's magnetron. Replace it if it is defective.
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OK... I finally got around to opening this baby up and the capacitor has insulated connectors attached to the terminals. How do I get past those to short the capacitor. If I disconnect the leads first (for example the diode) that seems to be a great way to get shocked. Or do I just prod around with the screwdriver blade hoping to expose the terminal.
Finally wrapped this up today and celebrated with instant coffee (Woohoo - I'm easy to please). Your instructions bolstered my confidence... Next is a faulty soap dispenser on a GE dishwasher... That will be a cakewalk after the magnetron replacement. By the way... auto jumper cables make useful alligator clips to connect a screwdriver shaft to the microwave chassis. Thank you again.
it is true that it can take a long time to loose its charge , the best fix is to use a insulated screw driver and short the capacitor .Alway unplug or turn off the breaker to any appliance your are attempting to repair
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