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How to Change a Light Bulb in a Sears Kenmore Elite Microwave Model #72180839500

The Kenmore 72180839500 microwave serves as two appliances in one. First and foremost, it is a microwave oven, used for rapidly preparing food. Second, it is a hood vent, which removes smoke and odors from the stove-top below the microwave oven, and is required by most local building codes. The microwave has two replaceable light bulbs, one on the bottom of the appliance, which illuminates the stove-top surface, and one inside of the oven. If either light burns out, you can easily replace it yourself, rather than calling a service technician.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • 40-watt appliance bulb
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Instructions

  1. Surface Light

    • 1

      Unplug the microwave from the wall outlet.

    • 2

      Remove the mounting screws securing the light cover to the underside of the microwave.

    • 3

      Unscrew the light bulb, and then screw the new bulb into the light socket.

    • 4

      Place the light cover back in position; secure it using the screws that were removed.

    • 5

      Restore power to the microwave.

    Oven Light

    • 6

      Unplug the microwave from the wall outlet, which is often located in the cabinet above the appliance.

    • 7

      Remove the two screws at the top of the front vent grille, and then tilt the vent toward you and lift it out.

    • 8

      Pull the flat charcoal filter toward you are remove it from the compartment.

    • 9

      Push in on the locking tab, securing the bulb holder, and then pull the bulb holder out of the compartment.

    • 10

      Remove the light bulb, and then screw the new bulb into the socket.

    • 11

      Re-insert the bulb holder, and then return the charcoal filter to the compartment.

    • 12

      Replace the vent grille, and use the screws that were removed to secure it into position.

    • 13

      Restore the microwave's power source.