General Electric Oven light is out: Common Causes & How to Fix
1Range/Stove/Oven Light Assembly
Most Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
If the light in the oven isn't working, you might need to replace the whole light assembly. Usually, you can't buy the parts of the light assembly separately.
How to Replace Range/Stove/Oven Light Assembly
-
Disconnect power. Turn off power to the range at the circuit breaker before servicing.
-
Remove light cover. Use a screwdriver to undo any screws or clips securing the oven light cover in place.
-
Disconnect wire leads. Unplug the electrical wires from the existing light assembly. Note wiring positions.
-
Loosen mounting hardware. Use a screwdriver or wrench to detach screws or clips holding the light assembly.
-
Extract old assembly. Carefully withdraw the entire used light assembly from the oven cavity.
-
Install new assembly. Insert the replacement oven light assembly into position.
-
Tighten mounting hardware. Secure the new light assembly with the original screws or mounting clips.
-
Reconnect wire leads. Plug the electrical connections back into the new light following notes.
-
Replace light cover. Position the light cover and secure with its retaining screws or clips.
-
Restore power. Switch power on at the breaker and check that the new oven light turns on.
2Range/Stove/Oven Oven Control Board
Most Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
The oven control board sends power to almost all the electric parts of the oven, including the lights. If the control board is broken, it might not be able to power the light bulb or light board, but this doesn't happen often. You can use a tool called a multimeter to check if power is getting to the light socket or light assembly. If power isn't reaching these parts and the light switch passes the multimeter test, then the control board is probably broken and you'll need to replace it.
How to Replace Range/Stove/Oven Oven Control Board
-
Shut off power to the range by locating the circuit breaker and shutting it off. This prevents electric shock.
-
Remove the control knobs by gently pulling straight up and off of the stems they attach to. Set aside.
-
Remove the control panel of the oven by locating mounting screws around the edges and carefully removing them.
-
Disconnect the wire connectors attached to the control board by squeezing release tabs and gently pulling wires free.
-
Remove mounting screws or other hardware securing the board in place. Lift out the old board.
-
Install the new control board and attach with original mounting screws or hardware.
-
Reconnect wire connectors to matching terminals, ensuring colors or locations match up properly.
-
Replace the control panel and mounting screws around the edges.
-
Reattach control knobs by pushing them back onto the stems.
-
Restore power and test ovent functions like bake, broil, temperature controls.
3Range/Stove/Oven Light Bulb
Most Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
To figure out if the light bulb has stopped working, you can use a multimeter to test it or you can put the bulb into a socket that's exactly the same to see if it works. The multimeter test checks if there's a continuous electrical path within the bulb, which is necessary for it to light up. If the bulb doesn't pass this test or doesn't light up in the identical socket, it's likely burned out.
How to Replace Range/Stove/Oven Light Bulb
-
Disconnect power to oven light circuit. Locate the oven light switch or circuit breaker and shut off power.
-
Loosen light cover screws. Use a screwdriver to undo any mounting screws holding the light cover plate in place.
-
Detach light cover. Carefully remove the light cover plate to expose the interior light socket.
-
Remove old bulb. Grasp the burned-out light bulb and unscrew it counterclockwise from the socket.
-
Install new bulb. Thread the replacement bulb clockwise into the empty light socket by its base.
-
Tighten securely. Turn the bulb gently until it is tightened firmly into the socket.
-
Replace light cover. Position the light cover plate and screw it back into place securely.
-
Restore power. Switch the oven light circuit back on at the breaker or switch.
-
Test oven light. Open the oven door and ensure the new light bulb turns on and illuminates properly.
-
Close oven door. Gently shut the oven door when finished testing the replacement light bulb.
4Range/Stove/Oven Light Housing
Most Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
If you've checked and found that the light bulb isn't burned out and the light board seems to be working fine, the problem might be with the light housing where the bulb or board is installed. You can use a multimeter, a tool that measures electricity, to see if power is getting to the light socket or the whole light assembly. If power is reaching these parts but the light still won't work, it suggests that the light housing is not working properly and you'll need to replace it.
How to Replace Range/Stove/Oven Light Housing
-
Disconnect power to oven lights. Locate the light circuit breaker and shut off all power.
-
Remove mounting screws. Use a screwdriver to detach the screws securing the light housing cover.
-
Detach old housing. Carefully lift off the worn light housing cover with the light socket intact.
-
Unpack new housing. Open the replacement light housing packaging.
-
Install new housing. Place the new light housing cover into position on the wall of the oven cavity.
-
Attach mounting screws. Insert and tighten the mounting screws to secure the replacement housing.
-
Connect wire leads. Plug the electrical connections to the housing's internal light socket.
-
Insert light bulb. Gently screw a new bulb into the socket for testing.
-
Restore power to lights. Turn the lighting circuit back on at the circuit breaker.
-
Check new housing. Verify that the replacement housing cover and internal light are functioning properly.
5Range/Stove/Oven Light Switch
Most Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
To check if the light switch is broken, you can use a multimeter, a tool that measures electrical continuity. Continuity means there's an unbroken path for electricity to flow, which is necessary for the switch to work. If the multimeter test shows that the light switch doesn't have continuity, it means the switch is defective and you should replace it.
How to Replace Range/Stove/Oven Light Switch
-
Disconnect power to oven lights. Locate the light circuit breaker and shut off all power.
-
Remove switch plate. Using a screwdriver, undo the mounting screws holding the switch plate to the cabinet.
-
Disconnect wire leads. Gently unplug the electrical connections attached to the old switch. Note wire positions.
-
Loosen mounting screws. Remove the mounting screws anchoring the existing light switch in the cabinet cutout.
-
Extract old switch. Carefully withdraw the worn oven light switch from the cabinet housing.
-
Install new switch. Position the replacement switch in the cabinet cutout and attach with mounting screws.
-
Reconnect wire leads. Plug the electrical wires back into the new switch following your notes on positions.
-
Replace plate. Affix the switch plate back over the new switch using mounting screws.
-
Restore power. Switch the oven light circuit back on at the circuit breaker.
-
Test switch function. Operate the replacement oven light switch and ensure proper activation.
6Range/Stove/Oven Halogen Lamp
Most Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
To figure out if a halogen lamp isn't working, you can utilize a multimeter to test it for electrical continuity. This test checks if there's an unbroken electrical path inside the lamp, which is necessary for it to light up. Alternatively, you can place the lamp into a socket that's exactly the same as the original to check if it works. If the lamp doesn't pass the multimeter test or doesn't light up in the identical socket, it's likely that the lamp has failed.
How to Replace Range/Stove/Oven Halogen Lamp
-
Disconnect power to oven. Turn off the power to the range at the main circuit breaker.
-
Remove lamp cover. Use a screwdriver to undo the mounting screws or clips holding the lamp cover in place.
-
Disconnect wire leads. Unplug the electrical connections attached to the existing halogen lamp. Note wire positions.
-
Remove mounting hardware. Use pliers or a screwdriver to loosen the clips anchoring the halogen lamp assembly.
-
Extract old lamp. Carefully detach the halogen lamp and ceramic base from the lamp housing compartment.
-
Install new lamp. Insert the replacement halogen lamp and snap it securely into the lamp housing clips.
-
Reconnect wire leads. Plug the electrical connections back into the correct ports on the new lamp.
-
Replace lamp cover. Position the lamp cover and secure with its retaining screws or clips.
-
Restore power to oven. Turn power back on at the main circuit breaker.
-
Inspect lamp function. Check that the replacement halogen lamp illuminates properly.
7Range/Stove/Oven Light Socket
Most Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
You can use a multimeter, which is a tool that measures electricity, to check if the light socket is getting power. If the light socket is getting power but the oven light still won't turn on, it suggests that the light socket is faulty. In this case, you should replace the defective light socket to resolve the issue.
How to Replace Range/Stove/Oven Light Socket
-
Disconnect power to oven lights. Locate the light circuit breaker and shut off all power.
-
Loosen retaining screw(s). Use a screwdriver to undo the mounting screw(s) holding the light socket cover in place.
-
Detach light socket cover. Carefully lift off the light socket cover plate to expose the interior socket.
-
Remove old socket. Grasp the worn light socket and unscrew it counterclockwise from its mounting base.
-
Install new socket. Thread the replacement light socket clockwise into the empty mounting base where the old one was located.
-
Tighten securely. Turn the new socket gently until it is tightened firmly in the mounting base.
-
Replace light socket cover. Position the cover plate and screw it back into place securely.
-
Restore power to lights. Switch the oven light circuit back on at the breaker or switch.
-
Test new socket. Insert a light bulb and ensure it illuminates properly in the replacement socket.
-
Replace light bulb. Remove the test bulb and replace if needed prior to use.
8Range/Stove/Oven Touchpad
Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
The touchpad includes a button that operates the oven light. If this button isn't working, the touchpad won't tell the oven control board to switch the oven light on. But this doesn't usually happen. Begin by testing the light bulb, socket, and switch. If all of these parts are working correctly, the problem might be with the touchpad.
How to Replace Range/Stove/Oven Touchpad
-
Shut off power to the range by flipping the circuit breaker to avoid electric shock during repair.
-
Remove any knobs/bezels covering the front of the touchpad by lifting straight up.
-
Look for mounting screws around the perimeter of the touchpad underside.
-
Remove the mounting screws using a Phillips head screwdriver.
-
Carefully detach any wire harnesses connected to the touchpad back. Note positions.
-
Lift out the old touchpad panel being careful not to strain or break wire connections.
-
Connect wire harnesses to the matching terminals on the new touchpad back.
-
Mount the new touchpad to the control panel using original screws.
-
Replace knobs or bezels if removed earlier.
-
Restore power and test all touch controls and range functions for proper replacement.
9Range/Stove/Oven Control Board
Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
The control board is responsible for sending electrical power to nearly all parts of the oven, including the lights. If there's a problem with the control board, it might not be able to send power to the light bulb or light board, but this isn't usually the issue. To check, use a multimeter to see if power is getting to the light socket or light assembly. If the multimeter shows that power isn't reaching these parts but the light switch passes the continuity test, it indicates the control board is likely broken and should be replaced.
How to Replace Range/Stove/Oven Oven Control Board
-
Shut off power to the range by locating the circuit breaker and shutting it off. This prevents electric shock.
-
Remove the control knobs by gently pulling straight up and off of the stems they attach to. Set aside.
-
Remove the control panel of the oven by locating mounting screws around the edges and carefully removing them.
-
Disconnect the wire connectors attached to the control board by squeezing release tabs and gently pulling wires free.
-
Remove mounting screws or other hardware securing the board in place. Lift out the old board.
-
Install the new control board and attach with original mounting screws or hardware.
-
Reconnect wire connectors to matching terminals, ensuring colors or locations match up properly.
-
Replace the control panel and mounting screws around the edges.
-
Reattach control knobs by pushing them back onto the stems.
-
Restore power and test ovent functions like bake, broil, temperature controls.
10Range/Stove/Oven Main Control Board
Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
The main control board of the oven sends electrical power to most parts of the oven, including the lights. If there's an issue with the control board, it might not be able to provide power to the light bulb or light board, though this isn't a frequent problem. You can use a tool called a multimeter to check if power is getting to the light socket or light assembly. If these parts aren't receiving power but the light switch is functioning correctly when tested with the multimeter, it's likely that the control board is faulty and should be changed.
How to Replace Range/Stove/Oven Main Control Board
-
Shut off power to the range at the circuit breaker. Turning off power prevents electric shock during the repair.
-
Remove any knobs or control panels by gently lifting straight up. Set hardware aside in a safe place.
-
Locate the control board, usually mounted under or behind the front control area.
-
Disconnect all wire connectors attached to the board by squeezing locking tabs and pulling wires free.
-
Remove mounting screws or brackets securing the board in place. Lift out carefully.
-
Insert the new control board into position and secure with original fasteners.
-
Reconnect all wire harnesses by firmly pushing connectors onto matching terminals.
-
Replace control knobs and panels by pushing or screwing items back into position.
-
Restore power and test features such as bake, broil, timers to ensure proper functioning.
-
Control board replacement is complete. Return range to normal operation.
11Range/Stove/Oven Door Switch
Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
The oven door switch is a crucial part of your oven's safety and function. It can affect the oven light when it's not working. The switch's main job is to make sure the oven doesn't run with the door open, keeping you safe. When the oven door is closed, the switch turns on, letting the oven work. But if the switch doesn't work, it can make the oven think the door is always open, even when it's closed. That's a safety feature to keep the inside from getting too hot when you don't expect it. The oven light is usually connected to the same switch, so if it's not working right, the light won't turn on, making it hard to see inside. So, if your oven light is out, it's important to get the oven door switch checked and fixed to keep things safe and working well.
How to Replace Range/Stove/Oven Door Switch
-
Turn off power. Disconnect the power supply to the range at the main circuit breaker to avoid electric shock.
- Remove control knobs. Take off any oven control knobs to expose the mounting screws beneath.
- Unfasten mounting screws. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to loosen the mounting screws securing the oven control console cover. Lift off the cover to access interior components.
- Disconnect wires. Unplug the electrical wires connected to the old door switch. Note wire positions to ensure correct reconnection.
- Remove mounting screws. Unscrew the screws or bolts holding the door switch in place.
- Install new switch. Insert the new door switch and fasten it securely using the same mounting screws.
- Reconnect wires. Plug the electrical wires back into their proper positions on the new switch following your notes. Double check wire connections.
- Replace control console cover. Position the cover back on and tighten its mounting screws to secure.
- Replace control knobs. Snap the oven control knobs back onto their stems.
- Restore power and test. Switch the power back on at the main breaker and test that the new door switch is working properly.
12Range/Stove/Oven Power Supply Board
Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
The power supply board in your oven is like its electrical control center. It sends power to different parts, including the oven light. Here's how it affects the light: The power supply board controls the electricity that makes the oven light turn on when you open the oven door or use the oven. If this board has a problem, it can stop the electricity from reaching the light, making it stay off. When the board isn't working right, it can also be a sign of other issues with the oven's electrical system. So, if your oven light isn't coming on, it might be due to the power supply board, and getting it fixed is important to make sure your oven works well and is well-lit when you need it.
How to Replace Range/Stove/Oven Power Supply Board
-
Disconnect power. Turn off power to the range at the main circuit breaker.
-
Remove control panel. Unfasten retaining screws to detach the main oven control console or panel.
-
Locate board. Identify the existing power supply board mounted behind the control panel.
-
Disconnect wire harnesses. Carefully unplug all electrical connectors attached to the old board.
-
Remove mounting screws. Use a screwdriver to detach screws securing the board in the mounting bracket.
-
Extract old board. Gently withdraw the worn power supply board from its position.
-
Install new board. Set the replacement board into the mounting bracket.
-
Attach mounting screws. Fasten the new board securely with the original screws.
-
Reconnect harnesses. Plug all electrical connectors back into the correct ports on the new board.
-
Replace control panel. Secure the main control console or panel back onto the range.
13Range/Stove/Oven Touchpad and Control Panel
Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
The touchpad and control panel control how power is sent to all parts of the oven, including the oven light. If these are broken, they won't tell the oven control board to switch on the oven light. But this usually isn't the problem. Start by testing the light bulb and socket. If these are working fine, the issue might be with the touchpad and control panel assembly.
How to Replace Range/Stove/Oven Touchpad and Control Panel
-
Disconnect power by turning off the circuit breaker for the cooktop/stove/oven.
-
Remove any retaining screws around perimeter of the control panel faceplate.
-
Carefully pry off faceplate using a plastic putty knife or thin-blade tool.
-
Disconnect wire harness connecting control functions to main control board.
-
Remove mounting screws attaching the touchpad directly to the appliance frame.
-
Withdraw old touchpad and controls once fully detached from mounting points.
-
Clean mounting surfaces where the new assembly will contact the appliance housing.
-
Mount replacement touchpad using retaining screws through holes in its mounting bracket.
-
Reconnect wire harness by plugging it back into the correct port on new touchpad.
-
Replace control panel faceplate and restore power to test operation of new controls.
14Range/Stove/Oven Transformer
Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
The transformer, which helps supply power, could be broken. But this doesn't happen often. Start by checking the light bulb, socket, and light switch. If all of these parts are working fine, then the problem could be with the transformer. If the transformer is defective, it can't be repaired—you'll have to replace it.
How to Replace Range/Stove/Oven Transformer
-
Disconnect power. Turn off power to the range at the main circuit breaker.
-
Remove control knobs. Detach any control or temperature knobs to access mounting screws.
-
Remove control panel. Unfasten retaining screws to lift off the oven control console or panel.
-
Locate transformer. Identify the oven's existing low-voltage transformer behind the control panel.
-
Disconnect wire leads. Unplug all electrical wires connected to the old transformer. Note positions.
-
Detach mounting screws. Use a screwdriver to remove screws securing the transformer in place.
-
Remove old transformer. Carefully lift out the worn transformer from its mounting position.
-
Install new transformer. Set the replacement transformer and fasten securely with mounting screws.
-
Reconnect wire leads. Plug wires back into new transformer matching your notes on positions.
-
Replace control panel. Secure control console or panel back in place with retention screws.