How to Replace a Microwave Light Bulb

For many people, their microwave is a kitchen staple that sees daily use. Better yet, these trusty appliances can last for years—if not decades—and be no worse for wear. However, eventually, the light might go out. While you could continue using a microwave without a light indefinitely, cooking is far easier if you can see what’s happening. 

It’s fortunate, then, that replacing the light bulb in your microwave—no matter the make or model—is relatively simple, and far less expensive than buying a brand-new microwave. 

So, if the light in yours has gone out, this guide will help you to replace it. While the process will be similar across most microwaves, it’s still a good idea to double-check your specific appliance to ensure that you know how to access your light bulb. 

A Brief Note on Safety

Microwaves come equipped with a large capacitor—a device that stores electricity. While replacing a light bulb most likely won’t involve you coming anywhere near your appliance’s capacitor, it’s still a good idea to locate it first, to make sure that you steer clear of it. 

Capacitors retain a charge even when turned off and disconnected from the power source. So, since a capacitor the size of the one found in your microwave can deliver a jolt similar to a defibrillator, touching one by accident could result in serious injury or death.

Microwaves (the waves themselves) are also dangerous, so never operate a microwave with the door open—although they should all prevent you from doing so. However, if anything were to happen to the appliance’s internals, that might happen. The shielding around the inside of the microwave is also important in keeping those waves at bay, so avoid mishandling that as well.  

With that out of the way, let’s replace that light bulb, step by step. 

1. Identify Your Light Bulb

While most microwave light bulbs are specialized, ultimately, they are just normal light bulbs, albeit small. So, a flip through your microwave’s user manual—or a simple Google search—will tell you what kind of light bulb your specific model uses. Once you’ve gotten that information, just source a replacement either online or at a nearby department store. 

If you cannot find any information about your light bulb, feel free to proceed with these steps. Once you’ve removed the faulty light bulb, you can check its labeling and find a replacement then. Just be sure to get one with the same wattage. However, it’s better to already have a new one handy before proceeding. 

2. Unplug Your Microwave

We may just be replacing a light bulb, but whenever working with any appliance, big or small, it’s always good practice to unplug it before starting. Or, for the larger appliances, if you can’t unplug it, turn off the circuit breaker that it’s connected to. 

Besides that, to access your microwave’s light bulb, you will typically have to unscrew a few panels first. Doing so will probably be easier if you unplug the appliance and place it on top of a work area (such as the kitchen table). 

3. Remove the Compartment Panels

In most microwaves, the light bulb is kept within a special compartment that is separated from the primary shielding. So, while you’ll need to remove a few panels, for the vast majority of appliances, you won’t need to fully disassemble your microwave to access the light bulb. 

However, to unscrew these panels, you’ll need a Phillips-head screwdriver, a flat-head screwdriver, or perhaps a hex key. Gloves are also recommended to protect against sharp edges. Gloves can also prevent the oils from your hands getting on the new light bulb. 

Typically, you’ll remove one or two panels at most. However, if your specific model requires you to remove multiple panels and you don’t feel comfortable doing so, it can be helpful to take pictures to help you remember how to put everything back together.  

4. Replace the Bulb and Panels

Start by unscrewing the original bulb counterclockwise and then removing it. Sometimes, these light bulbs are at an awkward angle, so if you have trouble getting a grip and it’s socketed tightly, you can wrap a rubber band around the bulb to improve your grip—just be careful not to break it and risk cutting yourself. 

It’s also a good idea to check the socket for damage or dirt and grime. You can try cleaning it with a dry cloth if you notice anything. Microfiber cloths are great for this.

Once you’ve taken out the old bulb, just screw the new one in clockwise and make sure it’s tight and secure—but don’t overtighten it. 

The panels should go back easily, but if you’re uncertain, you can check the pictures you took while you were taking them off. 

5. Test the New Bulb

With everything back together, simply plug the microwave back in and open the door. The light should go on. If it doesn’t, that might indicate something else is amiss—especially if the old bulb still looks fine. 

You could double-check with a new bulb, just to make sure the replacement itself wasn’t also bad—as rare as that might be. If that doesn’t work, there are some other troubleshooting steps you could take, or you could just enlist the help of a professional. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you still use a microwave if the light bulb is out?

Yes, you can. While it might be more difficult to cook food without being able to see what’s happening inside the microwave, you can feel comfortable continuing to use it even when the light bulb is out. However, replacing it is a relatively inexpensive and quick process. 

Does replacing the light bulb in a microwave void the warranty?

Sometimes, yes. While this can vary from warranty to warranty, often, replacing the light bulb yourself might void it. If you’re uncertain, be sure to check your appliance’s warranty. However, typically, the warranty will expire far before the light bulb does.