How to Replace a Microwave Lightbulb

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Most microwaves are equipped with an internal light that turns on when the door is opened or when the microwave is operational. This small halogen light is not necessary for the microwave to work, but does enhance its features and use. If the bulb in your microwave has burned out, here’s what to do.

Steps

PDF download Download Article
  1. [1]
  2. [2] There will be a vent located either in the front, side or bottom of the machine, depending on make, model and mounting.
    Advertisement
  3. [3]
  8. [4]
  9. [5]
  13. If you’ve replaced the bulb correctly and the new bulb is working properly, then the light should go back on when you reopen the microwave’s door.
    14. Advertisement

Video

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Is it safe to use a microwave if the light is not working?
    Community Answer
    Yes, the bulb can be replaced, but will not impact cooking if not illuminated.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 3 Helpful 38
  • Question
    May I use a 40W bulb to replace a 35W bulb?
    Community Answer
    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.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 8 Helpful 19
  • Question
    What do I do if my microwave isn't heating up?
    Community Answer
    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.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 2 Helpful 14
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      • Consult your owner's manual if possible to determine the exact size and type of light bulb needed. If your manual is not available, go through first 7 steps and take this bulb with you to the hardware store to purchase a new bulb. This will ensure you get the correct wattage for your particular unit.
        Thanks
        Helpful 21 Not Helpful 2
      • Some microwaves are not meant to have the bulb changed by the homeowner; in these cases, the bulb replacement may be covered under warranty. If you own the microwave, check the user manual and warranty information to see if a new light bulb and installation is covered under your microwave's warranty before attempting to change it yourself.
        Thanks
        Helpful 22 Not Helpful 4
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Warnings

      • Never attempt to change the bulb in a microwave while the microwave is still plugged in or while power is being supplied.
        Thanks
        Helpful 9 Not Helpful 6
      • Do not attempt to change the light bulb from within the microwave's interior; always remove the vent panel and change the light bulb from within.
        Thanks
        Helpful 12 Not Helpful 10
      Advertisement

      Things You'll Need

      • Screwdriver
      • Replacement halogen bulb

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Replace an Led Recessed Light Bulb
      How to
      Change a Light Bulb
      How to
      Replace a Light Bulb in a Ceiling Fan
      How to
      Replace a Recessed Bulb (Without Removing the Fixture!)
      How to
      Light an Led Bulb with a Battery
      How to
      Change a Track Lighting Bulb
      How to
      Make a Light Bulb
      How to
      Change Halogen Light Bulbs
      How to
      Change a Gu10 Halogen Light Bulb
      A Guide to Painting Light Bulbs for Crafts & Projects
      How to
      Open an Incandescent Light Bulb
      How to
      Replace Tail Light Bulbs
      6 Ways to Remove a Broken Light Bulb
      How to
      Remove a Broken Light Bulb with a Potato
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W89chxPa-Bw
      2. ↑ https://www.mrright.in/ideas/appliances/microwave/microwave-light-bulb-not-working-possible-causes-solutions/
      3. ↑ https://www.mrright.in/ideas/appliances/microwave/microwave-light-bulb-not-working-possible-causes-solutions/
      4. ↑ https://products.geappliances.com/appliance/gea-support-search-content?contentId=16691
      5. ↑ https://products.geappliances.com/appliance/gea-support-search-content?contentId=16691

      About This Article

      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 331,935 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement