Changing Light Bulbs and Light Fixtures

Introduction:

Changing light bulbs is one of the easiest projects that a homeowner can do without the assistance of professional help. When a light bulb or lamp fails to illuminate, the chances are it has expired and needs replacement. Simply replace it with one of equal wattage. Do not use a bulb or lamp that has a higher wattage than the light is rated for.    

The first thing to do is to check if the fuses have been damaged or if the circuit breaker has tripped. If either one of these occurred, there may be something else wrong with the light which may need the attention of an electrician.

Tripped fuses and circuit breakers could mean something is wrong with the wiring. If there is not a blown fuse or a tripped circuit breaker, it is safe to change the light bulb.   Replace the defected light bulb by screwing a new one into the socket. If the light burns out often there may be something wrong with the wiring or the light fixture. 

Changing light fixtures:

In most cases changing a ceiling or wall mounted light fixture is just a matter of removing the fixture support bolts or screws, disconnecting the wiring and installing a replacement fixture. Changing a lamp light fixture is a little different. The fixture that the bulb screws into is attached to the lamp by a large threaded socket that is screwed to the lamp itself. The wires pass through the socket and down the lamp stem to a plug.

When changing lamp light fixtures, caution must be taken to prevent twisting the electrical wires as you screw the fixture to the lamp. If the wires are twisted they may break and cause a short circuit.  

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