GE Advantium 120 Microwave Light Bulb Replacement

Introduction

A GE Advantium 120 microwave is a great device for cooking. It has several different cooking modes, a recipe saver, and a manual option. The food it creates is as delicious and crispy as food cooked in an oven, and it also has a “speedcook” feature that cooks particularly quickly. Furthermore, the lighting is bright and gives you a clear view of your food as it cooks.

However, light bulbs aren’t infallible. If your GE Advantium 120 microwave has lost its interior light, you might be wondering what to do about it.

It’s important to have a light bulb in your microwave, because this will help you to cook better food. You should make sure you can always see into the microwave, so you can take food out if it is at risk of boiling over. Not having one is dangerous, so avoid running a microwave until you have replaced the bulb.

Replacing a bulb usually involves removing the cover, finding a suitable replacement, and screwing it into place – so let’s look at exactly how to do this.

Tools And Materials Needed

Firstly, you will need to make sure that the light bulb you buy is the same type and wattage as the one currently in your microwave. To change the bulb, you’re going to need the following:

• A 12v 20w halogen bulb with the appropriate socket (search for the part number WB36X951)
• A screwdriver to remove the outer door covers
• Gloves
• Safety glasses

Don’t start until you have all of these tools assembled, as you won’t be able to use your microwave until you have fully reassembled it.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1) Begin by flipping the power switch for your microwave at the wall socket to turn it off. Next, unplug the microwave completely, and wait for it to cool to room temperature if it has been used recently.

Step 2) Locate the cover over the light bulb, and find the screw that is holding it in place. The screw is on the right-hand side of the cover.

Step 3) Gently pull the light bulb out of the socket, holding firmly to its casing. The casing should come with it, and you can then set the bulb aside. Put it somewhere safe so you aren’t at risk of smashing it off while you work.

Step 4) Install the new light bulb by lining it up with the socket, and then giving it a gentle but firm push into place. It should slot in properly, with no gaps. Make sure it is in place by gently wriggling it back and forth and giving it a light tug to see if it pulls back out. If it does, have another go at seating it.

Step 5) When the bulb is in place, check that it isn’t touching any other surfaces, and then you can put the cover back on.

Step 6) Screw the cover into position and make sure the screw is fully tightened.

Step 7) Plug the microwave back in, turn on the power, and test it to make sure it is working correctly. If there is no food you want to heat, place a glass of water in the microwave and turn on the power for a few seconds. Don’t turn the microwave on while it’s empty, as this can be dangerous.

Tips And Warnings

The first thing you need to do is make sure you are using a light bulb that is the correct wattage and type for your microwave. It’s best to check the manual for your microwave model to be completely sure you have a compatible part, particularly for the GE Advantium 120 microwave. This requires a special kind of bulb.

You should be able to get a suitable replacement online, or perhaps have one ordered by staff at your local hardware store. Doing this is the best way to ensure that your light bulb is compatible and will fit into the microwave.

It’s a good idea to put on gloves before you handle the new bulb. When you touch a bulb with your bare skin, oil will be transferred from your skin to the glass, and this can cause the bulb to burn out more quickly. Minimize this by not handling the bulbs directly. A pair of thin gloves will prevent damage from occurring.

Gloves will also protect your hands from any cuts from sharp metal or screws. Work slowly when using the screwdriver, and be careful when reaching into the microwave.

If you can’t find any suitable gloves, you don’t need to wear them, but take extra care when you put your hands in the microwave. Use a thin cloth to pick up the bulb so you don’t have to handle it.

Safety goggles are an additional precaution that will minimize any risk of damage to your eyes if something sparks or a piece of the microwave unexpectedly pings into the air. Neither of these things should happen, but it’s best to err on the side of caution.

If you aren’t sure about the process described, don’t proceed. It’s best to talk to the manufacturer or hire a professional, rather than risk damaging your microwave in the process. Although this is a reasonably easy fix, not everybody feels comfortable handling electronics, so get help if you feel you need it.

Conclusion

To replace a light bulb in a GE Advantium 120 microwave, you will need to remove the light cover and then pull the old bulb and its housing out. Push the new bulb into the empty socket, after double-checking you have purchased a compatible unit.

Always prioritize safety and make sure you have switched off and unplugged the microwave before you start removing any covers or touching the screws. This vastly lowers the risk of accidents and will keep you safe. Remember too to wear gloves and goggles if you can.

It may be wise to make light bulb replacement part of your regular microwave maintenance routine. You might do this once per year or once every two years to maximize the performance of your appliance.