How to Replace Your Refrigerator Light or Door Switch

How many DIY articles does it take to help you change a refrigerator light bulb? Hopefully just this one. Replacing a refrigerator light is easy, but if the new bulb isn't working, it could be a sign that your refrigerator's light switch/door switch needs replacing. Here's what to do in that situation.

When new bulbs don't work

It's 2AM, you can't sleep, and you decide a little warm milk will make you drowsy. You open the refrigerator door, and nothing happens. Chances are your refrigerator light bulb has burned out, particularly if the interior of your fridge is still cold.

You know the drill: counter-clockwise to unscrew the bulb, clockwise to screw it in. Take care not to touch the glass portion of the refrigerator light with your bare skin. Oil left on the glass can cause it to burn hotter than is necessary or safe. Hold it with a dry cloth during replacement.

Things get a little more complicated if you change your refrigerator light and still nothing happens. In that case, so long as the fridge is cold, you probably need a new door switch. The door switch is that white triangular thing located at the top or bottom of your refrigerator where the door closes.

To remove a refrigerator door switch, look for a screw somewhere in its housing (unplug the refrigerator first to avoid electrical hazard). If you can't find one, gently pry the switch out from the fridge far enough to access the attached wires.

There will be either two wires or four wires attached to the switch. Before removing them, label each with tape so you can reattach them to the new switch in proper order. Handle the wires gently and without pulling. You should be able to purchase a new refrigerator door switch at an appliance or home hardware store.