At some point, every light in your house is going to go out, and when it does, you might be surprised how many people pause and wonder: Wait… how do I change this thing?

Whether you’re standing under a dead recessed bulb on a 14-foot ceiling or staring at your pool light wondering if electrocution is on the menu, we’ve got you covered.

This guide is for every DIYer, new homeowner, and anyone who’s ever Googled how to change a light bulb.

Let’s brighten things up in 9 (actually helpful) steps.

Step 1: Turn Off the Power

Sure, this seems obvious, but you’d be shocked (literally) how many people skip it. For safety’s sake, always:

• Turn off the switch
• Flip the breaker if the fixture is wired directly
• Let others in your home know you’re working on it

Working near water (hello, pool lights)? This isn’t optional. Shut off the breaker, not just the switch.

Step 2: Let the Bulb Cool Off

Halogen and incandescent bulbs can get very hot. Give it at least 5-10 minutes to cool before attempting removal. If you’re unsure, gently hover your hand near it first.

Step 3: Choose the Right Replacement Bulb

Here’s where many people go wrong. You can’t just stick any bulb into any socket. Consider:

Bulb Type:

• LED (light-emitting diode) – energy efficient, cool to the touch, lasts up to 25,000 hours
• CFL (compact fluorescent lamp) – slower to warm up, contains mercury, lasts ~10,000 hours
• Halogen – brighter, hotter, shorter lifespan
• Incandescent – mostly phased out in the U.S.

Wattage:

Check the fixture or socket label. Never exceed the listed wattage, it’s a fire hazard.

Brightness & Color:

Measured in:

• Lumens (brightness) – more lumens = more light
• Kelvins (K) (color temperature)
• 2700K: Soft white
• 4000K: Cool white
• 5000K+: Daylight

Want help choosing? Check out our guide on Smart Home Electrical Upgrades for advice on energy-efficient lighting.

Step 4: Remove Any Fixture Covers

Some lights include a cover plate, globe, or cage.

• Twist or unscrew the retaining piece (be gentle—these are often fragile glass)
• If there’s a screw or clip, use a screwdriver or pliers

Keep all hardware in a bowl or your pocket so it doesn’t vanish into the floor vent abyss.

Step 5: Remove the Old Bulb

How to unscrew a light bulb (without losing your patience):

• Use a dry hand or rubber glove for better grip
• Turn counterclockwise
• For pin or bayonet types, push in and twist or pull straight out
• If the bulb is stuck, wrap it in duct tape or use a bulb gripper

Broken bulb? Cut power, wear gloves, and use a potato (seriously) or needle-nose pliers to twist it out. Or call us.

Step 6: Inspect the Socket

• Look for corrosion, burn marks, or loose wiring
• If anything looks off, stop what you’re doing

Burnt sockets are a red flag. Book a home electrical inspection to stay safe.

Step 7: Install the New Bulb

Now for the satisfying part.

• Line up the bulb with the socket
• Twist clockwise until it’s snug (but don’t over-tighten)
• For specialty sockets, follow the bulb’s package instructions

Pro tip: Use gloves for halogens, oils from your skin can cause premature burnout.

Step 8: Replace the Fixture Cover

Secure all covers, clips, or cages. Make sure everything is tight before restoring power.

Step 9: Turn the Power Back On

Flip the switch and test it out. Bask in your well-lit glory.

If it still doesn’t work:

• Confirm the breaker is on
• Try a different bulb
• Check the socket or wiring

Still no luck?

It could be faulty wiring or a dead switch.

Call a licensed electrician.

Bonus: How to Replace Bulbs in Special Fixtures

How to Change a Fluorescent Light Bulb

1. Turn off power
2. Remove the diffuser (if any)
3. Twist the tube 90 degrees
4. Slide it out
5. Insert the new tube and rotate until secure

Got flickering? It might be a ballast problem, not the bulb.

How to Change a Pool Light Bulb

Warning: These are not a casual DIY. If you’re not confident, call us.

1. Turn off the power at the breaker
2. Remove the light from the niche (most float to the surface)
3. Unscrew the lens
4. Replace bulb and gasket
5. Reassemble and test

Better safe than shocked. Schedule a professional pool light repair.

How to Replace Light Bulbs in High Ceilings

No, that wobbly barstool won’t cut it. Try:

• Telescoping bulb changers
• Scaffold ladders
• Calling us, we have the gear and the guts

Need to update your high lighting? Ask about whole-home LED upgrades.

Proper Light Bulb Disposal

• LEDs & Halogens: Wrap in newspaper and toss in the trash
• CFLs: Contain mercury, take to a recycling center or hazardous waste drop-off
• Fluorescents: Recycle per local regulations

When in doubt, check your county’s disposal guide or bring them to a local hardware store with a recycling program.

FAQs: What People Also Ask

Where can I buy light bulbs?

Most hardware stores, supermarkets, and online retailers carry a wide selection. We recommend sticking with brands that meet U.S. efficiency standards.

How do I know what wattage I need?

Check the fixture socket label, it will list a maximum wattage. Never exceed it.

Why does my bulb keep burning out?

It could be:

• Overheating from too much wattage
• Bad wiring
• Loose connections
• Cheap or defective bulbs

We recommend scheduling an inspection to get to the root of the issue.

Can I replace incandescent bulbs with LEDs?

Absolutely. Just match the base type and wattage equivalent. LEDs use 75% less energy and last way longer.

How do I change a light bulb in a ceiling fan?

1. Turn off the fan and light
2. Remove the light cover (usually screws or clips)
3. Unscrew the bulb
4. Insert the new one and reattach the cover
5. Test it out

Call The Electricians—We’ll Handle the Hard Stuff

Changing a bulb is easy… until it’s not. If you’re dealing with stuck bulbs, broken sockets, or just don’t want to climb a 20-foot ladder, let us help.

We’re certified, local, and we actually enjoy this stuff.

🔌 Schedule service now

⚡ Need emergency help?

💡 Want to upgrade your lighting to LED or smart bulbs?