The light bulb in the microwave oven often fails. Sometimes the owners do not immediately notice this, if visual control over cooking is not needed. Of course, the lamp should turn on already when the device is opened. But this is usually ignored in a hurry.
But if the light is not constantly on, this creates discomfort and makes it impossible to ensure that the products do not burn. The reason is that in a microwave oven, the service life of individual elements is not eternal. It is due not only to the time of operation, but also to possible voltage drops in the mains. Therefore, if the light bulb in the microwave is out of order, it should be replaced.
Causes light bulb malfunction
How to change a light bulb in a microwave? First you need to figure out what the problem is. This will help the instruction, which outlines the possible causes of problems and gives tips on how to fix them yourself.
First, it is worth checking the nature of the constancy of illumination in the chamber. Sometimes the light flickers, sometimes it fades. Then it lights up again. The cause may be poor contacts on the terminals or oxidation on the base. In this case, as in the complete absence of backlight in the microwave oven, it is necessary to change the part.
Attention! Do not repair a device that has not expired warranty period by yourself. Violating the integrity of the factory seal on the case, you will lose the possibility of free service at the service center.
Selecting a light bulb replacement
When starting your search, first of all, specify all its parameters:
- power;
- ability to withstand high temperatures;
- the presence of an incandescent filament (in microwave ovens of firms Samsung, Panasonic, LG usually they are without a spiral, although there may be others in older models);
- plinth diameter.
There are universal lamps for microwave ovens of all types. However, equipment manufacturers insist that it is necessary to select the appropriate brand of the device manufacturer. For example, for an LG microwave oven, purchase a similar one. This guarantees the compatibility of the part with the unit and its long operation.
Also note: parts of even the same brand in different models are not the same in power and size.
In general, light bulbs with an E-14 base, with a power of 20 watts, are usually used. But some are not threaded. They are not unscrewed, but replaced together with the base on special contacts. These are sold in specialized stores.
Order repair
You will need:
- product manufacturer’s instructions;
- Screwdriver Set;
- pliers (possibly);
- plastic container;
- rubber gloves (you can use household ones);
- ammeter voltmeter.
Most microwaves are designed so that the owner can easily make a replacement. But still, it’s worth starting with a careful study of the instructions, where the entire operation is described step by step. It is usually the same for all models. Only the location of the lighting device may vary. For example, in the Samsung microwave oven, it is located on the right side.
Determining the exact location is easy. There are ventilation holes on the back to protect against heat. Behind them is what you need.
If the guarantee of the furnace has already ended, it can be safely opened in compliance with certain safety rules. Attention! Even when the device is de-energized, it is recommended to carry out the operation using protective rubber gloves.
- First, disconnect the equipment from the mains. Wait a few minutes for the residual charge in the capacitors to dry out. Then remove the U-shaped housing casing fixed with screws.
- Having opened access to the inside, “ring out” the light bulb leads with an ammeter voltmeter. Then remove the cartridge mounts
- Now unscrew or remove the burnt one and put the purchased one. Return the cartridge to its place and secure it.
- Assemble the body.
- Turn on the machine to make sure everything is in order.
Please note that in the event of a power outage, the readings of the electronic clock are “reset”. Set them to the correct time.
As you can see, it’s easy to do everything on your own. But if this failed or the light did not appear, you will have to contact the service center. Masters can be called at home, but in this case, you will most likely be put in a queue for service. Therefore, it will be faster to take the oven to the workshop yourself.
We hope our tips will help you deal with the problem.