GE Refrigerator Light Not Working: Try These Fixes First

Imagine how it feels if your modern, sleek car is working perfectly but the headlight is not functional. You can easily stumble into a ditch at night! That’s how it is when your GE refrigerator light is not working. You can accidentally bump into a pointy edge as you grapple in your fridge to get a drink at night. 

So, if your GE refrigerator is working perfectly but the light is not working, don’t overlook it. It’s time to fix it! I guess that’s why you’re here. In this article, I will clearly explain the reasons why your GE refrigerator is not working and how to fix it without straining your nerves.

If your ice maker light or freezer light is not also working, you will troubleshoot it by reading this article to the end.

Why Is My GE Refrigerator Light Not Working?

Your GE refrigerator is not working because your light bulb is burnt out, the socket has defects, the door switch is bad, the light switch is faulty or the light board is defective. See more details and best solutions.

Your Light Bulb Is Burnt Out

Just like any other light bulb, your GE refrigerator light bulb tends to stop working after being used for a long time. If you often leave the fridge door open for extended periods, the bulb will burn out faster compared to a fridge that is kept closed for longer periods.

If you check the bulb and notice a black, sooty mark on it or find that the filament is loose, it’s a sign that the bulb needs to be replaced. To confirm whether the bulb is burnt out, you can use a multimeter.

To check using a multimeter:

1. Remove the light bulb from the refrigerator.
2. Set your multimeter to the Rx1 setting 
3. Place one probe on the base of the light bulb and the other probe on the screw-like part of the bulb.
4. If the meter displays an infinite reading, it indicates that you need to replace the bulb.

 Solutions:

1. You can visit a local hardware store and purchase a 25 or 40-watt bulb. Alternatively, you can order one online and have it conveniently delivered to your doorstep. Make sure to choose a bulb that is specifically compatible with your refrigerator brand.

To install the new light bulb:

1. Before replacing the bulb, ensure that your refrigerator is unplugged to avoid any risk of electric shock.
2. Firmly grip the light bulb and gently rotate it in an anticlockwise direction to loosen it from the socket.
3. Once the old bulb is detached, take the new bulb and securely fasten it by turning it clockwise until it fits snugly. Don’t tighten it too much to prevent damage.

The Socket Has Defects

If you’ve verified that the light bulb or lamp is functioning properly, the next step is to examine the socket.

To inspect the light socket:

1. First, unplug your refrigerator. Remember, the socket carries live voltage and can electrocute you.
2. Take a close look at the socket and carefully inspect for any discoloration or indications of heat damage. These issues can restrict the proper connection of the light bulb.

 Solutions:

1. If the socket is damaged or obstructed by dirt, a quick cleaning with a damp cloth often resolves the issue and allows the light to work.
2. If cleaning doesn’t work, the socket should be replaced. You can find a perfect-fitting replacement.

The Door Switch Is Bad

When it comes to GE refrigerators, the door switch controls the light bulb. It should activate or deactivate the light when you open or close the refrigerator door. However, there are times when the light bulb may blink or fail to turn on due to a bad door switch.

To diagnose whether the door switch is the problem, you can use a multimeter. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to proceed:

1. Begin by unplugging your refrigerator to ensure safety.
2. Locate the door light switch, which is usually near the top of the door opening. Take care when removing the switch to avoid causing any damage to the interior plastic liner.
3. Once you have the switch in your hands, it’s time to test it.
4. Set your multimeter to the Rx1 setting, which is for testing continuity. This setting helps determine if the switch allows the smooth flow of electricity.
5. Take the probes of the multimeter and place them on the terminals of the switch. When you do this, the reading on the multimeter should shift from a very high value to zero.
6. While keeping contact between the probes and the terminals, press the switch inward. The reading on the multimeter should then move to a high value.
7. If the obtained readings differ from the expected results mentioned above, you likely need to replace the door switch. You can purchase a new door switch from a suitable supplier.

The Light Switch Is Faulty

If the door switch is in proper working condition and the bulb is not damaged, the cause of the issue could be the light switch. To know if the light switch is faulty, you can perform a test using a multimeter. If there is no continuity detected, it indicates that the light switch is defective and needs to be replaced. You can find a suitable light switch for your GE refrigerator here.

Light Board Is Defective

If you’ve checked and fixed the common issues and your GE refrigerator is still not working, the light board itself may be bad. You can replace the light board. 

Solutions

1. Begin by removing the old light board, by taking off the cover (some models may require unscrewing two screws, while others can be pulled off).
2. Disconnect the wire connector to detach the light board from the housing. 
3. The replacement light board can now be easily installed in reverse order.
4. Make sure that everything is functioning properly by testing the newly installed light board.
5. I recommend you seek the assistance of a refrigerator technician to be sure the light board is faulty before you replace it.

GE Refrigerator Ice Maker Light is Not Working

If the power light of your ice maker is not working despite being turned on, there are several steps you can take to fix this problem based on the model of your GE refrigerator:

Adjust the Feeler Arm

The feeler arm is a metal rod that activates the ice maker. By repositioning it downward, you can turn on the ice maker.

Activate the Control Panel

If your GE refrigerator has a control panel on the front to control the ice maker, press and grip the ice maker button for approximately 3 seconds. This action will activate the ice maker (repeating the process will deactivate it). If this doesn’t resolve the issue, the control panel might not be receiving power.

To verify this, you will need a multimeter. If there is no power, it may be necessary to replace the control panel. If the control panel is not the problem, it could indicate that the ice maker itself needs to be replaced.

Adjust the Slide Switch

On certain models, there is a switch that slides from left to right. Moving the switch in one direction turns the ice maker on while moving it in the opposite direction turns it off. The switch should be labeled to guide you in the appropriate direction.

Adjust the toggle

This operates similarly to the slide switch but moves up and down instead of side to side. Moving the switch to the top should activate the ice maker, thereby turning on the light.

How Do I Fix A GE Refrigerator Ice Maker Green Light That Is Blinking?

If the green light on the ice maker is blinking, it indicates that the ice maker circuit is faulty. Common faults are a blockage that makes the ice rake cling, a bad motor, a faulty ice maker heater, or a defective ice maker test function.

Solutions

1. Turn off the ice maker and wait for approximately 15 to 20 seconds. 
2. Then, immediately after turning it back on, press the plastic paddle three times. Within 3 minutes, the ice maker should start functioning properly.

FAQS

Conclusion 

Such a detailed solution to the problem of your GE refrigerator light not working! If you get stuck at any step, re-read this article for more clarity. With these step-by-step guidelines, you can be able to fix any cause of your GE refrigerator light not working. You can contact a refrigerator technician if you cannot handle it. Hope this was helpful.