If the interior light in your GE refrigerator fails to turn on when you open the door, there are several possible causes to check. With some basic troubleshooting, you can often resolve the issue yourself without the need to call for service. Here are the most common GE refrigerator light problems and how to fix them.
Check for Sabbath Mode
Some GE refrigerators have a Sabbath mode that turns off the lights and other functions to accommodate religious observations. To cancel Sabbath mode, press and hold the “lock” and “light” buttons simultaneously for about 10 seconds. This should restore normal operation.
Try a Hard Reset
If Sabbath mode is not enabled, try performing a hard reset on your GE refrigerator. Unplug the refrigerator or turn off the circuit breaker for 10-15 minutes. Then, plug it back in and see if the light works. The hard reset can clear any glitches in the system.
Check the Light Bulb
The first thing to check is whether the light bulb has burned out. Frequent opening of the fridge door can shorten bulb life. Inspect the bulb for blackening or a broken filament. Replacement bulbs can be found at most hardware stores. Be sure to get the correct bulb type and wattage.
Test the Light Socket
If the bulb is fine, use a multimeter to check for power to the light socket. If the socket has no power, it likely needs to be replaced. Carefully remove the light socket cover and detach the wiring. Installation of a new socket is the reverse process.
Inspect the Door Switch
The door switch activates the light when the door opens. Tap the switch a few times to see if the light comes on. Use a multimeter to check for continuity through the switch. If faulty, replace the refrigerator door switch.
Check the Light Switch
Some models have a separate light switch. Use a multimeter to test switch continuity. You’ll need to replace the faulty light switch without continuity.
Replace the Light Control Board
The issue may be a bad control board if other components check out. Locate the board housing on the rear of the fridge. Remove screws or casing to access it. Detach the wire connector and remove the old board. Replace it with the new part and reassemble it in reverse order.
Reset Ice Maker
Try resetting the unit if the ice maker’s power light is out. Adjust the feeler arm, press the ice maker button for 3 seconds, or slide the toggle to the On position. This should activate the power light. If not, use a multimeter to check the ice maker or control panel for power. You may need to replace the control board or ice maker assembly.
Flashing Green Light on Ice Maker
– Indicates a fault like a stuck ice rake, bad motor, faulty heater, or test function issue.
– Turn the ice maker off, wait 15-20 seconds, turn it back on, and push the paddle 3 times quickly to fix it.
Refrigerator Lights Flashing
– Do a hard reset. We likely need to replace the control board if that doesn’t work.
Green Light Not On for Chest Freezer
– Try a hard reset. If that doesn’t work, call for service.
High Temp Light On Constantly for Freezer
– Causes could be door ajar, wrong temp setting, broken door seals, or ice buildup.
– Fix by closing the door fully, resetting temp, replacing seals, and defrosting.
The Freezer Light is Not Working
– If the freezer works but the light doesn’t, likely a burnt-out bulb. Replace bulb.
– Could also be a faulty door switch or light fitting.
– For LED lights, we may need to replace the light board.
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Some FAQs
Q: Why does my GE refrigerator light flicker?
A: Flickering lights are often caused by a faulty light bulb or loose connection. Check the bulb and socket connections first.
Q: How do I change the light bulb in my GE refrigerator?
A: Locate the light cover panel inside the unit. Remove the panel and old bulb. Insert a new bulb of the same wattage. Replace the light cover.
Q: Why does my GE refrigerator light stay on all the time?
A: The door switch is likely defective if the light stays continuously. The switch should activate the light only when the door opens. Replace the faulty door switch.
Q: The touch panel on my GE is not working. Any tips?
A: Try rebooting the touch screen by holding the power button for 10 seconds. Also, make sure the touch screen is clean, and there is no condensation/moisture on it.
By methodically checking these common problem areas, you can often get your GE refrigerator lighting and ice maker working again without an expensive service call. Be sure to refer to your owner’s manual for model-specific repair tips. You can solve most GE refrigerator light issues with basic tools and troubleshooting.
Credit: DIY Repais Now
