How To Fix A Refrigerator Light That's Not Working

Most light bulbs or lamps can be checked visually for a broken filament or can be checked with a multi-meter for continuity. You can also simply replace the bulb with a new one.

If you have verified that the light bulb or lamp is not defective, then you should next inspect the socket. Look for discolored terminals or heat damaged sockets that may prevent good connectivity to the light bulb or lamp. This is a live voltage circuit and power should be removed before close inspection of the socket.

The interior light of your refrigerator is controlled by a switch that is activated when the door is opened and closed. If this switch malfunctions the light might not turn on consistently, if at all. The location of the switch varies depending on the model of your refrigerator, but it is usually located somewhere near the top of the door opening. The switch is often mounted into the interior plastic liner and care should be taken when removing it to prevent damage to the liner. The switch will be spring loaded and is a normally closed type of switch which means that there should be no continuity when the button is depressed and continuity through the switch when the button is not depressed. These checks can be made with a multi-meter with power removed from the appliance.

If your model has an ice and water dispenser with a light bulb you should first verify that the bulb is good. These lights are normally low wattage and are not designed to be used as night lights. Extended periods of usage will typically cause premature failure of the bulb or damage to the socket. Most models will have an on/off switch on the control panel and that may be defective. You can check the switch for continuity with a multi-meter. The lamp or bulb socket may also be defective and the control plate will need to be removed for inspection. These checks will require that you remove power from the appliance first.