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Product Help | Whirlpool

Interior Light Not Illuminating - Refrigerator

Possible Solutions

Has the door(s) been open for an extended period of time?  

If the door(s) have been opened for longer than 10 minutes, the interior lights will automatically turn off.  To reset the lights close all the doors. 

Is the door switch being activated?  

The interior lights in your refrigerator are controlled by the door switch.  This switch is activated when the door is opened and closed. If the switch is not being engaged properly, it could cause the interior lights to remain off.  The door switch location varies by model number, but in most refrigerators, it can be found either near the top or bottom of the door opening.

To ensure proper door switch contact check the following:

  • The refrigerator is level and doors are properly aligned
  • Ensure there are no magnets or electronic devices (Speaker, CoolVox, etc) within 3 inches of the door switch

For specific installation instruction information, for your model, please see the Owner's Manual.

Is the wiring harness unplugged?  

If the refrigerator was recently moved or installed and the doors were removed, check to make sure the wiring plug is properly connected.  The wiring plug can be found under the top hinge cover. Reminder - Unplug refrigerator or disconnect power before checking.  For complete instructions on how to remove the hinge cover and the wiring plug, please see your Installation Instructions. 

If the refrigerator was recently moved or installed and the doors were removed, check the wiring plug is properly connected.  The wiring plug can be found under the top hinge cover. Unplug refrigerator or disconnect power before checking.

Is the refrigerator in Sabbath mode? 

Sabbath Mode is designed for the traveler or for those whose religious observances require turning off the lights. By selecting this feature, the temperature set points remain unchanged, but the control panel lights, interior lights, and control audio turn off. For most efficient operation, it is recommended to exit the Sabbath Mode when it is no longer required.

If you unintentionally turn on Sabbath mode, the word “Sabbath” will light up on the display. Entering and exiting Sabbath mode varies by model, so please reference the Owner's Manual for specific instructions for this model. 

Does the light bulb need to be replaced? 

Most new refrigerators are equipped with LED light bulbs which do not need to be replaced. If your refrigerator or freezer compartment has a traditional light bulb check to see if the light bulb is loose in the socket and tighten if needed.  If the bulb needs to be replaced, be sure to replace it with an appliance bulb of the same size, shape, and wattage (no greater than 40 watts).  Not all appliance bulbs will fit your refrigerator/freezer. 

CLICK HERE for additional information on how to change the light bulb

For specific instructions on how to change the light bulb for your model, refer to your Owner's Manual. 

Cycle Power

Disconnect power from the refrigerator for 1 minute.  

 

Still need help? Contact us or schedule service.

Please contact us or click below to make an appointment from our preferred list of service providers for service on your appliances.

Interested in purchasing an Extended Service Plan?

Please click below to learn more on how you can save up to 25% on New Appliance Extended Service Plans within 30 days of your appliance purchase.

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