A refrigerator light not working is usually an easy fix: start by replacing the bulb, since a burned out bulb is the most common cause of a fridge light not working. If a new bulb does not help, check the door switch and the light switch next, testing each for continuity with a multimeter because faulty switches are a frequent reason the refrigerator interior light not working. If the switches pass, see whether the light socket is receiving power; a socket that has power but won’t light the bulb means the socket is bad and needs replacement. Less commonly the whole light assembly will need to be swapped out, and some manufacturers only sell the full assembly rather than individual components. It is unlikely but possible that a dispenser control board is at fault if your dispenser light is out, so you can inspect the board for burn marks or test for voltage before replacing it. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement light, socket, switch, or assembly that fits your refrigerator.
01 - Admiral Refrigerator Light Assembly
The light assembly might be defective. Some manufacturers don’t sell the light assembly components separately, and instead require you to purchase the light assembly.
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While it's not a likely cause, a defective dispenser control board could be responsible for a dispenser light not working. You can inspect the board for signs of burning or a shorted-out component. You can also use a multimeter to determine if the board is sending voltage to the dispenser light's plug-in connecter. If no voltage is present, you'll know the board is defective and will need to be replaced.
To determine if the door switch is defective, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the door switch does not have continuity when activated, replace it.
To determine if the light socket is defective, use a multimeter to determine if the socket is getting power. If the socket is getting power, but the light bulb won’t work, this indicates that the light socket is defective. If the light socket is defective, replace it.