GUIDE TO FIXING A REFRIGERATOR LIGHT THAT IS NOT WORKING
A refrigerator light is a convenient feature to help you find the foods you need for your making. If you discover the light isn’t working properly, it may be a simple fix, such as a stuck switch, or a repair that requires a professional. You can follow this guide to troubleshoot the issue and see if you can fix your refrigerator light yourself.
Before you begin, you may want to check your refrigerator user’s manual for model-specific information. For other refrigerator issues, learn more about how to troubleshoot possible refrigerator problems. Understanding the parts of a refrigerator may also help fix a refrigerator light that’s not working.
WHY DID MY REFRIGERATOR LIGHT TURN OFF?
The light may automatically turn off when you leave your refrigerator door open for a few minutes. Close and open your door to find out if this is the cause. You can also check that the door switch is functioning properly and your refrigerator door is aligned. Make sure that your refrigerator hasn’t been unplugged and carefully check that the outlet is working properly.
WILL MY REFRIGERATOR WORK WITHOUT THE LIGHT?
Your refrigerator should work without the light, unless there’s a bigger issue such as your refrigerator isn’t cooling. In general, a light not working could be a simple fix such as the door not fully closing, or it may be more complex and require scheduling an appointment with a service professional.
HOW TO FIX A BROKEN REFRIGERATOR LIGHT
There may be a few different reasons why your refrigerator light isn’t working. This guide can help you troubleshoot the issue and offer possible ways to fix a broken light. You may also want to check your user’s manual for specific instructions for your refrigerator model.
SUPPLIES
- New light bulb (if necessary)
- Level
- Damp cloth
STEP 1: REFRIGERATOR DOOR LEFT OPEN
Your refrigerator light usually has an automatic shut off if a door has been left open for an extended period of time. You can close and open the doors to see if this resolves the issue. Make sure the doors are fully closed after each use.
STEP 2: DOOR SWITCH NOT ACTIVATED
The refrigerator door switch activates the lights when you open and close the door. You can typically find the switch on the top or bottom of the door opening, although you’ll want to consult your user’s manual for the location as it can vary by model.
To ensure that the door switch is being engaged, check that your refrigerator is level and the doors are aligned. If that doesn't resolve the issue, look for food debris on the door switch, as it may be stuck due to dried splatters or spills. You can use a damp cloth to clean it.
STEP 3: DISCONNECTED POWER CORD
If your light isn’t working and your refrigerator isn’t cooling properly, it may be the electrical connection. Check whether your refrigerator power cord is securely plugged in and that the outlet is functioning.
STEP 4: REFRIGERATOR WIRING PLUG ISSUES
The wiring harness may be unplugged. You can check under the top hinge cover to make sure the wiring plug is properly connected. Consult your user’s manual for model-specific information. As with most electrical issues, this may be a job for a service professional.
STEP 5: REFRIGERATOR IN SABBATH MODE
When your refrigerator is set to Sabbath Mode, it maintains the temperature, but you can open and close the refrigerator or freezer doors without activating the lighting, sounds or other controls. If you’re unsure how to turn Sabbath Mode on or off, check your user’s manual for instructions, as it can vary by model.
STEP 6: TIGHTEN OR REPLACE LIGHT BULB
Many modern refrigerators have LED lights that are unlikely to burn out or come loose. But, if you have an older refrigerator with an incandescent bulb, see if it’s loose in the socket and can be tightened. It could also be burned out and need to be replaced. Before replacing the light bulb, confirm the size, shape and wattage (generally less than 40 watts) in your user’s manual for a proper fit.
Check for any damage to the light socket. For any indications such as discoloration, loose wires or a cracked socket, contact a service professional for repairs.
KitchenAid® refrigerators come with LED bulbs that usually don’t need to be replaced. Select models have Panoramic LED Lighting that features strips of lighting on the sides, ceiling and back of the refrigerator, as well as in the crisper and pantry that make it easier to find your ingredients at a glance.
WHY IS MY FREEZER LIGHT NOT WORKING?
If your freezer light isn’t working, it could be similar to fixing a refrigerator light. Make sure your appliance hasn’t been unplugged and the outlet is working. Frost buildup can also cause a door switch to not function properly. Use a warm, damp cloth to melt any frost that may be hindering the door switch.
You may also have a faulty door switch or the freezer door needs to be properly aligned. Or it could simply be that the door has been left open and the light automatically turned off after a period of time.
In an older refrigerator with an incandescent bulb, your light may need to be tightened in the socket or it could be burned out and need to be replaced. Check the socket for any damage. It’s best to check your user’s manual for more information. Depending on the issue, the repair may need the expertise of a service professional.
SHOP KITCHENAID® REFRIGERATORS
KitchenAid® refrigerators are designed with LED lighting that uses less energy than incandescent bulbs. Select models feature lights that gradually increase to full intensity making it easy to find items inside the refrigerator, freezer, and even the crisper. Browse the selection of KitchenAid brand refrigerators that offer function, versatility and style for everyday making and more involved culinary creations.
