Q&A for How to Replace a Microwave Lightbulb

Yes, the bulb can be replaced, but will not impact cooking if not illuminated.

Be careful. The 40W bulb will emit more heat than the 35W one, and in the confined space of the inside of the microwave's electronics, this may cause the temperature to rise higher than the microwave is designed to cope with. This may cause the electronics to fail or (in the worst case) cause a fire.

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.

Call the company, look online, or take the bulb to a light or hardware store to find a suitable replacement.

It's probably safest to just buy a new microwave. You don't want radiation leaking from the top of your microwave.

Well, it depends on the microwave. If it's a small microwave, then of course you can use the same method.

If you can remove the old bulb, it is usually stamped on it what type it is. Do not attempt to remove the bulb if you are not certain of what you are doing though, for there is enough electricity in the microwave even if it is switched off and unplugged for it to kill a person. If you are not sure, get a repair person to change it for you.