Introduction: GE Advantium Microwave Halogen Lightbulb Replacement (Do It Yourself)
Note: This Instructable also works for the Kenmore Elite Speedcook Oven.
I have owned a GE Advantium oven for a little over two years now and I think it is about the neatest appliance that has come along in a long time (although it has been around for a while). I'll let you research why it is so cool. What is not cool is that in the two years I have had it, the lightbulb inside has burned out twice. I am not talking about the lamp that "browns" the food. I am talking about the lamp that allows you to "see" the food while the unit is running. If you think a light in a microwave is not so important, try heating up some soup without monitoring it...messy. Anyway, when the bulb failed the first time, I was at the tail-end of my warranty and with some convencing, was able to get GE to come and replace the bulb (they replaced a lot more parts than necessary, but for warranty work, who am I to complain?). Now less than a year later, the bulb is out again and is no longer covered by the warranty. Research at howtomendit.com reports that a service call to make this repair can cost as much as $180! I replaced the bulb using information I obtained from that same website and the repair cost me $4.95 at my local Home Depot. Considering that this is a common problem, I am hoping this instructable will help MANY unfortunate GE Advantium and Kenmore Elite customers.
Step 1: Securing Power and Preparation
To do this instructable you will will need:
One number two cross-tip screwdriver
One G8 base, 120V, 25W, halogen bulb (GE uses a 130V, 20W)
One pair of vinyl disposable gloves
Once the bulb is replaced, and the door is open, as soon as the the unit is plugged back in, the light will illuminate.
The vinyl gloves are a precaution to ensure you do not contaminate the surface of the halogen bulb which can significantly reduce its longevity.
All parts were purchased at Home Depot.
Step 2: Remove the Grill
Now, you will need to remove the two screws that hold on the grill. They are the two screws that are closest to the edge of the unit. Once the screws are out, simply rotate the grill forward from the top. It will pop right out.
Step 3: Grill Out, You're Almost Done (can You Belive a Tech Charges Almost 200 Bucks to Do This?)
Now that the grill is out, there is a cavity on the left. The bulb is right under this sheet metal "floor" on the left. Towards the front of the floor, there is a single screw. Remove this screw and lift up the sheet metal floor to access the bulb.
Step 4: Bulb Replacement
Although the picture is poor, if you look inside the unit you will see a small shiny reflector that hides the bulb. If you place a flashlight in the microwave pointing up, it will be easier to locate the bulb. The reflector is simply a "pinch fit" into the unit. Sqweeze it a bit, making sure not to bend it and it will come right out where you can work with it.
Step 5: Replace Bulb and Relflector
Once the new bulb is in, replace the reflector. Re-secure the sheet metal floor with the single screw (it may stay up a bit in the back...no worries) and replace the front grill.
You may want to test the bulb before the grill is back on. It's up to you.
Step 6: Restore Power and Pat Yourself on the Back
Once you plug the unit back in, it should come right on and immediately nag you to set the clock. Now that you have saved yourself $180, take your spouse out to dinner...or maybe just heat up some soup.
ONE FINAL NOTE: I have attached a pic of the bulb, GE uses for the unit. It is a different brand than the one I used. Hopefully, the new bulb will last more than a year.
