I recently encountered a frustrating situation with my over the range microwave. The light bulb inside it had burned out, and it was making it nearly impossible to see what was happening on the stove below. Cooking became a bit of a guessing game; I had to rely on my instincts rather than being able to clearly see what was happening. I knew I had to replace the light bulb, but I had no idea where to start. That’s when I decided to embark on a journey of learning how to replace the over the range microwave light. And now, I am here to guide you through the process too, step by step.
Gather the Supplies
Before diving into the task at hand, it’s important to gather all the necessary supplies. This way, you won’t have to scramble around midway through the process. Trust me, it’s much easier when everything is within arm’s reach. Here’s what you’ll need:
- New light bulb (compatible with your microwave model)
- Phillips screwdriver
- Needle-nose pliers
- Clean cloth or towel
- Step stool or ladder (if required)
Locate the Light Bulb Cover
Every microwave is slightly different, but there are some general steps that most microwaves will follow. Start by unplugging the microwave to ensure your safety. Then, using a step stool or ladder if necessary, locate the light bulb cover. This cover is usually on the underside of the microwave, near the front.
Remove the Light Bulb Cover
Once you’ve located the light bulb cover, it’s time to remove it. This is often accomplished by simply unscrewing a few screws with a Phillips screwdriver. Set the screws aside in a safe place so that you don’t lose them. Then, carefully take off the cover and set it aside as well.
Remove the Old Light Bulb
With the cover off, you will now be able to see the old light bulb. However, don’t just pull it out. Microwaves operate with high voltage, so it’s crucial to take proper safety precautions. First, unplug the microwave again, just to be certain. Then, using a clean cloth or towel to protect your hand from any glass shards, carefully unscrew the old light bulb.
Replace with a New Light Bulb
Now that the old light bulb is out, it’s time to bring in the new one. Take your new light bulb and screw it into the empty socket. Don’t overtighten; you just need to make it snug. Once the new bulb is securely in place, it’s time to move on to the next step.
Reattach the Light Bulb Cover
Having replaced the light bulb, it’s now time to reattach the light bulb cover. Line up the screw holes on the cover with the corresponding holes on the microwave and grab your Phillips screwdriver. Begin screwing the screws back into place, being careful not to overtighten them. Once secure, you can step back and marvel at your work.
Test the Light Bulb
Before calling it a day, it’s important to test whether your replacement effort was successful. Plug the microwave back in, turn on the light, and see if it illuminates. Hopefully, you’ll now have a fully functional light bulb that allows you to cook with ease once again.
Replacing the light bulb in an over the range microwave may have seemed like a daunting task at first. But armed with the right knowledge and supplies, you should now feel confident in your ability to tackle it. Remember to always prioritize safety and take your time to avoid any accidents. With a little bit of effort, you’ll have a well-lit cooking space once again. So, go ahead, switch on your new light bulb and get back to enjoying your time in the kitchen!