If your refrigerator light not working, start simple and work up: most often the bulb is burned out, so replace the lamp before anything else. If a new bulb doesn’t fix it, the usual culprits are a defective light switch, a faulty door switch, or a bad light socket—test those with a multimeter for continuity and for power at the socket. Some models require replacing the entire light assembly if the housing or wiring is damaged, and while rare, a failed dispenser control board can also leave the refrigerator interior light not working by not supplying voltage to the plug-in connector. Inspect the socket and wiring for burns or loose connections and check the control board for signs of shorts if you see no voltage. If you need parts, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement for your fridge light not working issue and get step-by-step guidance and the right parts for your Tappan refrigerator.
01 - Tappan 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.
Enter model number to search for the required part specific to your product
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.
While it's not a likely cause, a defective main control board could be responsible for a refrigerator 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 light socket or plug-in connecter. If no voltage is present, you'll know the board is defective and will need to be replaced.