Symptoms
- Interior light stays dark when the door opens or the light switch is used
- Oven still heats and cooks normally
- Light may have flickered before going out
- Switch or button for the light seems to respond
Likely causes
- CommonBurned-out light bulbOven bulbs are subjected to high heat and burn out faster than typical bulbs.
- PossibleLoose bulb in the socketVibration can loosen a bulb enough to break the connection.
- PossibleFaulty light switch or door switchThe switch that triggers the light with the door can fail.
- Less commonWiring issue to the light socketLess common, but possible on older ranges.
What to do
- Turn off and unplug the oven (or switch off its breaker) and let it cool completely before touching the bulb.
- Locate the light cover, usually a small glass dome inside the oven, and remove it per your manual (often a twist or unclip).
- Check whether the bulb is loose and try tightening it first.
- Replace the bulb with the correct oven-rated wattage and type specified in your manual; regular household bulbs aren't rated for oven heat.
- Reattach the cover and restore power, then test the light.
- If a new bulb doesn't fix it, the socket or switch may need testing by a technician.
Tools and parts
- Screwdriver (if cover requires it)
Oven light bulbSearch: “oven appliance light bulb replacement”
When to call a pro
If a new bulb doesn't restore the light, a technician can test the socket, switch, and wiring.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.