Question about GE Spacemaker JVM1640SJ Microwave Oven
I noticed that surface light bulbs were not working, so I replaced each one (they were blown). After replacing bulbs I depressed keypad for surface lights controls, but lights will not light. I also noticed that vent fan will not operate when depressing keypad control for vent fan. All other features and microwave work and operate. I turned main fusebreaker for microwave off and then on, but did not cure problem. Any ideas? Thanks
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That would almost certainly be a problem on the control circuit board. If the bulbs happen to short / blow out or if they are removed or installed while the microwave is still plugged in, there is often an arc which causes damage to the board. We repair regularly these boards for such problems for $32.50 nationwide.
Posted on Dec 25, 2006
The problem is almost certainly on the control panel, which we regularly repair nationwide for $39.95 postpaid.
This light failure often occurs when a bulb goes out and the filament shorts, or when the bulbs are removed or installed without first unplugging the oven from the power line. Either can cause such a failure on the controller.
This often can affect the exhaust fan operation, too. The lights and fan can be inoperable or stuck on.
If you or a friend decide to look into it, we have critical safety information and disassembly information at our site, linked here on Fixya: http://tinyurl.com/yzjozk
I have exact same problem. They are not making a replacement control board. Would you be able to fix my old board?
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GE replaced one circuit board with the identical part no. under warranty - when it failed again they refused to repair it again (after the warranty period). By the way I can still use mine by repeatedly pressing the "add 30 seconds" button.
Posted on Apr 26, 2010
Don't buy GE!
Posted on Feb 03, 2008
I have a similar problem, however, the microwave does not function either. could this only be a board problem?
Posted on Jan 06, 2008
SOURCE: Ge Spacemaker microwave - Model # JNM1851
They sometimes have a plastic cover over the bulb cavity that you can take off from the oven interior
Posted on Jan 02, 2008
SOURCE: Replacement light bulb for GE spacemaker microwave
That model number doesn't look quite right, but nevertheless:
If
there's no obvious removable cover over the bulb (and the owner's
manual doesn't address it) some disassembly may be required.
Always unplug a microwave before removing or installing any bulbs.
If
it's an over the range type, remove the vent grille across the top and
see if bulbs can be accessed there. There may be a panel on the bottom
covering the light(s), instead.
If not, chances are
you'll have to remove it from the wall, then remove the outer cover. If
so, the installation instructions are very handy, and it's best to have two people since the microwave can be heavy and awkward.
Once it's out of the wall, the outer cover (wrapper) will need to be removed, just as you'll need to do on a counter top model.
On a counter top model, be sure it's unplugged, but otherwise ignore the instructions above this paragraph.
The
screws you need to remove should be pretty obvious, but a special
driver (such as a T20H Torx type or GTXH20-100) may be needed.
Be sure to put all the screws back in the right holes, since some may be special grounding screws.
Bulbs can be had in most grocery stores, hardware stores, home improvement centers, and big box or department stores.
Many models use halogen lamps. You must not touch the new one with your bare skin, as the oils will shorten the bulb life.
We're happy to help you with free advice and we'd appreciate your thoughtful rating of our answer.
Posted on Sep 16, 2008
SOURCE: GE Microwave Keypad or Control Panel
If some pads on the keypad are not working, then you have a failed keypad.
If you (or someone you know) might want to replace it yourself, I have uploaded a handy guide with pictures showing you what's typically involved.
You can usually find helpful exploded view diagrams and order parts by entering your full model number here.
There
should also be a "mini-manual" hidden inside the unit behind the
control panel or hidden on the left side behind the grille, which is
very helpful when troubleshooting & testing.
If you would like to have us do this for you, we do that for $39.95 plus part costs.
On this model, the cover will have to come off to replace the light bulb. If it's mounted in the wall, it will have to come down.
The installation instructions are nice to have in this case. You can download GE owner's manuals and installation instructions here.
I have attached a drawing to show where the bulb is on this model. It is located on the right side of the oven next to the wall of the cooking cavity.
The bulbs are available in local grocery stores, hardware stores, and stores like Wal-Mart and Lowe's.
Please feel free to contact me directly if you need more help.
We're happy to help you with free advice and we'd appreciate your thoughtful rating of our answer.
William E. Miller
[email protected]
http://www.microwavedisplay.com
Posted on Sep 27, 2008
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Exactly the same thing just happened to me. I replaced the bulbs, which worked fine for a little while-- like, a day or so-- and then they began to flicker. Next thing you know, they went dead. No response from the keypad, even with brand new bulbs. No light at all. The vent fan has also ceased working.
Timer works, it cooks, just no illumination or fan. What's next...?
SURFACE LIGHT WILL NOT WORK
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