What is the name of the light in the refrigerator: official name, types and replacement

Have you ever wondered what the correct name is for the light bulb that illuminates the interior of the refrigerator? This seemingly simple element has not only an official technical name, but also several varieties depending on the model of equipment. In this article we will look at what it is called lighting in the refrigerator in the language of manufacturers, repair engineers and in the documentation, and also consider its design, principles of operation and nuances of replacement.

Many users mistakenly call this element a “light bulb for the refrigerator” or “LED”, but in a professional environment more accurate ones are used terms. For example, in spare parts catalogs you will find designations like lamp assembly, interior light or refrigerator bulb. At the same time, modern models Samsung, LG or Bosch can use fundamentally different technologies - from classic incandescent lamps to LED modules with motion sensors. Let's figure it all out in order.

The official name of the light in the refrigerator

In technical documentation and spare parts catalogs, the lighting of the refrigerator compartment is designated by several terms that depend on the design and brand:

  • 🔦 Interior lighting lamp (Interior Lamp) - the most common name, used in the instructions for Indesit, Atlant i Beko.
  • 💡 Lamp assembly (Lamp Assembly) - a term for a module that includes a socket, a lampshade and the lamp itself (often found in Whirlpool i Electrolux).
  • 🔆 LED lighting module (LED Light Module) - in modern models with LED backlight (for example, Samsung RB30A3200SA or LG GC-B247JLVN).
  • 🔌 Lighting unit (Lighting Unit) - a complex element including a lamp, sensor and fasteners (typical for premium refrigerators Liebeherr).

It is important to understand that the name can vary even from one manufacturer. For example, in refrigerators Atlant the term “15W E14 incandescent lamp” is used, and in new models with No Frost the term is “LED lighting panel”. If you are looking for a spare part, always check with model serial number (usually indicated on the sticker inside the chamber or on the back of the case). data-i="71">model serial number

📊 What type of lighting is in your refrigerator?
Incandescent lamp
Halogen lamp
Light-emitting diode (LED)
Not I know
Other

Types of lamps in refrigerators: from incandescent to LED

Lighting technologies in refrigerators have evolved along with the devices themselves. Today we can distinguish 4 main types of lamps, each of which has its own characteristics:

Lamp type Power Service life Approximate models of refrigerators Pros Cons
Incandescent lamp 15–25 W 1,000–2,000 hours Atlant MHM 1708-100, Indesit DF 4180 W Low price, easy to replace Heats up, fragile, high energy consumption
Halogen lamp 10–20 W 2,000–4,000 hours Bosch KGV36VW23R, Siemens KG36NXI30 Bright light, compact Sensitive to fat (cannot be touched with hands), heats up
Fluorescent (energy saving) 5–15 W 8,000–10 000 hours (old models) data-i="106">1–5 W LG GA-B419SLGL, Samsung RT-22 HAR4DSA (old models) Economical, long service life Contains mercury (requires disposal), flickers
Light Emitting Diode (LED) 1–5 W 25,000–50,000 hours Samsung RB30A3200SA, LG GC-B247JLVN, Liebeherr CN 4015 Minimum heating, durability, low energy consumption High price of spare parts, difficulty of replacement in some models

C In the 2010s, most manufacturers switched to LED lighting, as it meets modern energy efficiency standards (class A+++However, in budget models (for example, Biryusa or Posis) you can still find incandescent lamps if your refrigerator was manufactured before 2015. of all, it is exactly what is in it.

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators with a system No Frost the lamp can be integrated into the lamp with a door close sensor. When replacing such a module, it is often necessary to turn off the power and remove the internal panel - do not try. do this without experience!

How the lighting in the refrigerator works: diagram and principle of operation

The lighting system of the refrigerator consists not only of a lamp, but also of several auxiliary elements that ensure its operation. Let's consider a typical diagram using the model as an example. Samsung RL-34 EBMG:

  1. Lamp —light source (type depends on the model).
  2. Cartridge —mount for the lamp (most often E14 or E10 for LED).
  3. Cover light —light diffuser, protects the lamp from moisture and mechanical damage.
  4. Door sensor —microswitch that closes the circuit when opened (usually located next to the hinges).
  5. Wiring —connects the lamp to the refrigerator control unit.

The principle of operation is simple: when the door is opened the sensor closes the contacts, current flows to the lamp. In modern models (for example, LG InstaView) it can. used infrared sensor, which turns on the light even when lightly tapping on the glass. In refrigerators with a display (like Samsung Family Hub), the lighting is sometimes controlled through the main board, and special equipment is required to diagnose it.

Why can the lamp light up when the door is closed?

If the light in the refrigerator does not turn off after closing, the reasons may be the following:

1. Sticking door sensor —the contacts have oxidized or the mechanism has worn out.

2. Wiring problems —short circuit in the lamp circuit.

3. Malfunction of the control unit (in models with electronic control).

4. Defective seal —the door does not close tightly, and the sensor does not works.

In the first two cases, you can try to clean the contacts or replace the sensor yourself. If the problem is in the electronics, it is better to contact a specialist.

How to determine the type of lamp in your refrigerator

If you do not know what kind of lamp is in yours refrigerator, this can be determined in several ways:

  1. Look in the instructions —in the “Technical Specifications” or “Replacing the Lamp” section, the type and power are usually indicated.
  2. Inspect the lamp visually:
    • 🔍 Incandescent lamp —a glass bulb with an incandescent filament, base E14 or E27.
    • 🔍 Halogen - a compact bulb with gas, often with a reflector.
    • 🔍 LED - a flat panel or small diodes on the board, the base may be missing.
  • Check the marking — there are sometimes markings on the socket or lampshade (for example, 220V 15W E14).
  • Find the refrigerator model and look at the spare parts catalog (on websites PartMaster, eSpares or from official dealers).
  • If the lamp is burned out and you are not sure of its type, never install a lamp with a higher power than indicated in the instructions —this can lead to melting of the lampshade or even a fire. For example, in refrigerators Atlant the maximum permissible power is 15 W, and in Liebeherr - 25 W.

    Step-by-step instructions: how to replace a lamp in a refrigerator

    Replacing a lamp is one of the few procedures that you can perform yourself without the risk of damaging the refrigerator. However, the algorithm of actions depends on the type of fastening. Let's consider the universal instructions:

    ☑️ Preparing to replace the lamp

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    1. Turn off the power — remove the plug from the socket to avoid electric shock.
    2. Remove the ceiling:
      • In most models (Indesit, Beko) the lamp is secured with latches - carefully pry it off with a screwdriver.
      • In refrigerators Samsung i LG You may need to unscrew 1-2 screws.
      • In some Bosch the lampshade is removed along with the cover of the top shelf.
    3. Remove the lamp:
      • For E14/E27 — carefully unscrew counterclockwise.
      • For LED modules—disconnect the connector (you may need to remove the lock).
  • Install a new lamp —screw or insert into the connector without applying force.
  • Check operation —turn on the refrigerator and open the door. If the light does not light up, check the sensor contacts.
  • ⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators with electronic control (for example, Samsung RS62R5001M9) after replacing the lamp, you may need to reset the error through the service menu. To do this, hold the button Power Cool + Fridge 5 seconds.

    Frequent problems with lighting and their solutions

    If the lamp in the refrigerator does not light, the reasons may be different - from banal burnout to serious malfunctions. Let's look at typical cases and ways to eliminate them:

    Problem Possible cause Solution
    The lamp does not light when the door is opened Burned lamp Replace with a new one (see instructions above)
    The light blinks or lights dimly Poor contact in the socket or oxidation Clean the contacts with alcohol, bend the petals cartridge
    The lamp is constantly on (does not turn off) The door sensor is stuck or the microswitch is faulty Replace the sensor or adjust its position
    The light turns on with a delay Faulty LED driver (in models with LEDs) Replacing the entire LED module
    The incandescent lamp often burns out Power surges or vibration during compressor operation Install voltage stabilizer or switch to LED

    If after replacing the lamp the light still does not work, check lighting circuit fuse (in some models it is located on the control board). In refrigerators Liebeherr i Miele overload protection may be triggered - in this case, a system reboot is required (turn off for 10 minutes).

    Where to buy a lamp for a refrigerator and how much does it cost

    You can buy a lamp for a refrigerator in several places:

    • 🛒 Official service centers - guarantee of original spare parts, but the price is higher than the market price (for example, an LED module for Samsung RB30A3200SA will cost 1,500–2,500 ₽).
    • 🛒 Online spare parts storesPartMaster, eSpares, 220-Volt.ru. Here you can find analogues cheaper (a lamp E14 15W costs 50–150 rubles).
    • 🛒 Electrical goods storesLeroy Merlin, OBI. Suitable if you need a standard incandescent lamp.
    • 🛒 AliExpress - cheap LED modules (from 200 ₽), but the risk of running into low-quality spare part.

    The cost depends on the type of lamp:

    • Incandescent lamp E14 15W — 50–200 ₽.
    • Halogen lamp - 150–400 ₽.
    • LED module (original) - 1,000–3,000 ₽.
    • LED module (analog) - 300–1,000 ₽.
    ⚠️ Attention: When purchasing an LED module, check compatibility with the refrigerator model. For example, LG GA-B489TGGF uses a proprietary connector, and universal modules may not be suitable.

    FAQ: Frequently asked questions about light in the refrigerator

    Is it possible to replace an incandescent lamp with an LED?

    Yes, but you need to take into account several nuances:

    1. The power of the LED lamp should be no higher recommended for your model (usually 1-5 W instead of 15-25 W for incandescent).
    2. The base must match (most often E14).
    3. In some refrigerators (for example, Atlant old model) the LED may flicker due to the low quality of the driver.

    For reliable operation, choose LED lamps with markings 220V and operating temperature from -20°C.

    Why does the refrigerator use a 220V lamp and not a 12V one?

    Most household refrigerators are connected to the network 220V, and their lighting is powered directly from the outlet Using a step-down transformer (for. 12V) would increase the cost and complexity of the design. The exception is some premium models (for example, Liebeherr with 12V LED backlight) or refrigerators for RVs.

    What to do if after replacing the lamp the light still does not light?

    Check the following elements:

    1. Door sensor —press it manually (there should be a click). If it doesn’t work, replace it.
    2. Fuse —in some models (Indesit, Ariston) it is located on board.
    3. Wiring —inspect for breaks or melting.
    4. Control board —if all other elements are working, the problem may be in the electronics (diagnosis by a technician is required).
    Is it possible to use an energy-saving lamp in a refrigerator?

    Technically yes, but not recommendedEnergy-saving lamps contain mercury, and their breaking inside the refrigerator will lead to contamination of the chamber. In addition, they do not tolerate low temperatures well. vibration, so they quickly fail. The best option is LED.

    How to remove the lampshade in a Samsung refrigerator with LED backlight?

    In most models Samsung (for example, RB30A3200SA) The lampshade is secured with latches:

    1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains.
    2. Carefully pry the lampshade on the right side with a flat screwdriver.
    3. Disconnect the power connector from the LED module.
    4. Replace the module and reassemble everything in the reverse order.

    If the lampshade does not budge, do not apply force - in some models it is fixed with an additional screw under the decorative trim.