KitchenAid Whirlpool $118 to Change a Light Bulb Benton Harbor, Michigan

Had a small bulb ($8 at Home Depot) go out in a KitchenAid microwave. Microwave is the top part of a built-in microwave and convection oven unit.

Called KitchenAid to ask how to change the bulb because it wasn't obvious. Learned that it should be changed by a technician because access was difficult. They offered to set an appointment @ $75 service call, at least $75 labor, and about $22 for the bulb ($172 minimum). I ended up contracting locally and paid $118.

Poor design of the unit made changing the bulb ridiculous. The convection oven door had to be removed, all trim taken off of the exterior of the built-in unit, the whole unit pulled out of the wall, the electronic control module pushed aside and partially disconnected, and then the technician reached over the top and accessed the bulb.

Called KitcheAid for support and was told 'sorry'. Wrote to the President and received a call from an employe saying that policy prevented them from helping with the bill - sorry you feel that the charge was excessive. Poor design was not addressed and reason for them quoting a minimum of $54 extra labor cost (real company support..) was treated as a 'that's the way it is' occurrence.

DON'T buy KitchenAid or Whirlpool products. Design was poor but Company attitude and acceptance of reasonable responsibilty was worse.