Microwave Problems

How long does a microwave light bulb last?

I have a Whirlpool microwave. After just 1 1/2 years the light bulb broke. Is this normal? How long should a microwave light bulb last? How long did your light bulb last?

Public Comments

1. 3000 hrs. only
2. The only answer to this question is: until it doesn't come on anymore.
3. I have to give you a silly answer, but it may touch on the truth. The light bulb lasts as long as the microwave. Everything today is built to be discarded in a short amount of time, so this silly answer may well be the right answer. How many T.V. sets you see sitting on curb sides? Ever wonder if the people threw them out because they don't work? Or, maybe they opted for the giant screen versions. Welcome to the new throw-away society. Gone forever is the T.V. repairman. We throw away everything now, from razor blades to marriages.
4. I might agree it could be 3000 hrs. But it's based on how much you use the microwave. If you used it a lot less it will last maybe 4 years, or if you use a lot more than usual it might last just a year or two or around.
5. I'm still using the huge clunky microwave I bought in 1981 with the original light bulb. 25 years of everyday use, and it cooks fantastic. Goes to prove they don't make things like they used too! Issy
6. I had a Panosonic MW that I bought in November of 1981. The microwave still works great and the light has never been replaced, I paid 500.00 for the oven. it was a big one, I just gave it away last month for a smaller one that I paid 37.00 for, I bet this one will not last that long!
7. I have never seen one burn out before.
8. what is normal? that varies. depends on usage,manufacturer, age, physical abuse, and also electrical voltage and or spikes in the area. Personally never saw one burn out before...note they dont "break" unless the bulb cracked from abuse
9. It's a light bulb plain and simple. The only reason it lasts as long as it does is due to the length of time it's on. Learn to live with out or remove the cabinet and replace it. Be sure to get the proper bulb for that micro. Make sure the new bulb is tight. A loose bulb will shortren it's life. Do not disturbe the door. Remove screws on back and bottom of the cabinet . It will slide back and up
10. My light bulb has lasted 6 years.
11. that depends on how much you use it. in most cases it will last until it burns out.
12. The light could outlast the microwave,it could have just went out due to someone slamming the door to hard and could have shook the filament loose in the bulb.