How to Repair Light Bulb Fixtures

Are you a “dim bulb” when it comes to minor electrical repairs such as replacing and repairing light bulb fixtures? The good news is that with the proper precautions and knowledge, it really isn't difficult to do. Knowing how to troubleshoot and repair light bulb fixtures can save you money and the inconvenience of living in a black and white movie, half in light, half in shadow.

With so many different types of fixtures, bulbs, and tools available it might seem daunting to try a repair yourself. However it's good to remember that while the fixtures may differ, underneath, the wiring has been standardized by color; so there's no guesswork as to which color wire is which. Once you know how to deal with these, you'll think twice before calling an electrician for a minor repair again.

Some common tools needed for repairing light bulb fixtures:

  • Magnetic screwdriver
  • Needlenose pliers
  • Electrical tape
  • Wire stripper
  • Wire caps
  • Pencil
  • Voltage tester
  • Gloves
  • Ladder
  • Potato (that's right)

Troubleshooting:

Some common problems with light fixtures can be the following:

  1. Bulb Burnout
  2. Buzzing Fluorescent
  3. Burning Smell/Sizzling Noise
  4. Oxidation (rust)
  5. Switch short
  6. Didn't pay the electric bill (just kidding)

1.Bulb Burnout

First check to make sure this is not your problem. The bulbs should never exceed the wattage recommendation for the fixture. If you have been running a higher-wattage bulb, you might have some dangerous exposed wiring underneath. It's a good idea to inspect it.

2.Buzzing Fluorescent

Fluorescent lights are powered by electricity moving through a ballast and a starter; metal plates vibrate when electricity passes through them; these plates should be properly spaced and mounted. If you have a vibration, check to make sure the mounting screws and plate spacers are fastened, and check the unit attaching it to the wall to make sure all connections are properly screwed in. If the problem is within the ballast, then you may need the help of an electrician.

You should also check to make certain the bulbs are seated in their sockets, which might have warped over time. You don't want any of the end posts to be exposed.

1.Burning Smell

If a burning odor accompanies light fixture failure, be very careful about troubleshooting. Overheating has occurred, which could potentially lead to fire in the worst circumstances. Check all connections and screws to make sure none have loosened. Also confirm the correct wattage of the fixture, and use the right-sized bulb; don't exceed the specified wattage limit. Other problems can cause the smell, so if the answer isn't apparent, it's best to call an electrician to troubleshoot your circuits. Overheating can be a prelude to a more serious problem. When in doubt, cut the power to the affected area.

2.Oxidation

If the tab connecting the fixture to the base of a bulb has rusted, try cleaning it with a swab and contact cleaner made especially for this purpose. You can also coat the bulb screw with special degreaser that will protect exterior bulbs.

Wiring

Repair Light Bulb FixturesYou don't have to be a bomb squad technician sweating over which wire is the “hot” and which is the the “ground”. Wiring colors have been standardized. Basically, wires should be well-insulated and not burned; wrapped tightly, and with any exposed areas sealed by electrical tape. Replacing a fixture is as easy as untwisting the wire connections, putting the right colored wires together and twisting them together, sealing them off and tucking them away, and replacing the fixture, bulb, and cover. In many cases it's unnecessary to even drill a new hole.

Onto the colors:

  • Black/Red/Blue: Hot wire
  • Green/Bare Copper: Ground Wire (think of a lightning rod to prevent shock)
  • White: Neutral Conductor
  • Gray: Neutral Conductor

If any of the wires have crumbled insulation, this is due to running a fixture with a bulb with too much wattage. The fixture should be replaced.

Replacing the Fixture

Step-by-step

  1. Turn off the breaker to kill any electrical current running through the affected area. Before doing that in the dark make sure you have a flashlight handy.
  2. Set up safe and adequate lighting and ladder, and yes, eye protection. Make sure that anyone around is aware you will be doing a repair, and not to turn on the electricity. Make sure your work area is well marked and well lit. The ladder should rest on all its legs and be locked into position.
  3. A magnetic screwdriver is useful when dealing with those pesky little screws from an upside-down position. You might also need some electrical tape and replacement wire caps.
  4. If your light has a cover, remove it. Sometimes they require a screwdriver, sometimes they can be removed by hand with the flick of a small lever around the base, or by unscrewing a knob. You might have to feel your way around the neck of the cover to locate and release the fastener. Carefully lower it – and you might want to clean it while it's down.
  5. Remove the bulb. You might have to unscrew it, or pop out a fluorescent connector. Try to do this with as little physical force as possible. Wearing eye protection saves you from an accidental break.
  6. Now with a screwdriver you can remove the fixture from the ceiling or wall. It will hang freely by its wires. Check the state of the wires to make sure they are safe. You will have to remove any caps, and untwist them – taking note of the colors to know how to connect them to your new fixture. If you need to you can trim the wires or the insulation with a wire trimmer, in order to make a better connection with the new fixture.
  7. Hold up your new fixture to the wall or ceiling to determine if you will have to drill any new holes to support it. Pencil in the new holes and decide whether you want to screw them in by hand or predrill starter holes, smaller than the screw posts for a nice tight fit.
  8. Attach the color-coded wires from the new fixture to those from the ceiling or wall. Twist the wires together cleanly and cover them with a cap or several passes of electrical tape (no other kind). Use more tape to secure any excess wiring out of the way.
  9. Once the fixture is stable, install your light bulb, taking care not to exceed the wattage rating located on a sticker in the fixture.
  10. Replace the cover.
  11. Turn on the breaker and test the light. Take care to watch for any sparking or burning odors – if such occurs, turn off the breaker immediately, recheck your work, or call an electrician.

Spare the Cost of an Electrician

Electricians are trained professionals whose time is valuable. Like plumbers, when they are called into service, it's usually a house call. By the time the repair is all said and done, the customer may have paid for parts, labor (about $75/hour and up), service charges, and travel time and distance. It pays to learn some basic handiwork skills like repairing your own fixtures. The money you save can be put towards a better fixture.

Of course, when in doubt, do consult a professional electrician rather than take on a job that's likely to be dangerous for you. Safety first. Always remember to cut power to any electrical fixture you work on, and take measures to prevent another person from accidentally powering the electricity while you are working. But with a little determination and safety awareness, you'll be flipping new switches in no time.

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