Most pool owners ask is learning how to replace a pool light fixture difficult? I’d say it’s a relatively easy job to replace a burned-out pool light bulb. Like ordinary household preventive maintenance, the pool light does not need to be out to be changed. You may be amazed at the new bulbs on the market, remote lighting, changing colors, dimmable lighting.
At one point, most everyone with a pool 2nd guesses their choice of having that pool. Winters, service, preventive maintenance all seem to outweigh the occasional dip. Like people relocating to coastal areas, the water can be alluring. In the beginning, the visits to the beach are frequent. However, with time the attraction begins to wane.
The trips to the beach become more infrequent. The one thing that fails to lose its luster is the seascape. Like the ocean the view, a well-lit pool can be captivating. Depending on the pool illumination, a person may feel relaxed, warm, relaxed, refreshed, romantic, or mesmerized. This is why most learn how to replace a pool light fixture.
To curb some of the pool expenses, changing bulbs, and minor maintenance items can be an easy way to save.
Using an energy-efficient LED bulb is a very economical alternative to traditional incandescent bulbs. A 100-watt incandescent bulb used 24 hours per day, 7 days per week 365 days per year cost approximately $146.00. The same term utilizing an energy-efficient LED bulb will cost $14.50 per year.
Before beginning the task of changing the pool light bulb Its essential to understand it’s not the same as changing the light in the kitchen. The risk can be significant, so you must focus and pay attention to the job. You may need to be submerged in water and or at the very least; you will be wet. Electricity and water do not mix well. It’s not a difficult task; however, safety is paramount.
If you feel uncomfortable or after reading these instructions do not completely understand, please do not hesitate to hire a professional. Again, safety is essential.
A pool care professional or an electrician will make quick work of the assignment.
Getting Ready To Replace Your Pool Light Fixture
Getting Started
First, turn off the pool light. Second, flip the circuit breaker. Third, check again, the power is turned off. Still, you will be standing in or touching water while touching wires and changing the bulb. Now would be a great time to use an electrical tester.
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/6108euyr7OL._SX522_.jpg
You may want to drain some water from the pool. It’s not necessary; however, it will most likely make the job easier. You might want to weigh the time and effort of replacing the water and required chemicals. In keeping with preventive maintenance, consider taking advantage of the lower water level and take the time to clean the waterline. Sometimes if the water is hard, it will leave a calcium buildup. It’s also a great time to check the tiles in the area typically submerged.
Once you begin the process of changing the bulb, you will need to remove the pilot screw from the light cover. It’s most likely located on the top. The screws should be stainless; if they are not now would be a great time to change them. Stainless will not rust. The screws will be countersunk flathead or Phillips. Once you have removed the screw, pry the light from the fixture casement.
You may encounter calking or corrosion; if needed, use a flathead screwdriver and gently pry. Once you have removed the light, there should be ample wire to allow you to lay it on the deck. Before beginning the job, you may want to get a couple of towels or a rubber mat to avoid scratching the lens.
https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61X7Cvrd95L._AC_UL640_QL65_ML3_.jpg
Other tools you may want for the job is a multimeter or an electrical tester. With careful precautions, you won’t necessarily need these; however, we can’t stress enough the importance of checking and rechecking that the power is off. Before you handle the wires with bare hands or remove the bulb, make sure you use the tester or check one last time the power is off.
https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91sw0VDpLNL._AC_UL640_QL65_ML3_.jpg
Remove the screws and or clamps that hold the light fixture together. Pull the face ring and lens off so you can reach the pool light bulb. While removing the screws and clamps, it an excellent time to clean the parts or make sure the screws are stainless. As you inspect the light, you may want to consider changing out the fixture. A new pool light will cost $180-$850.
As you examine and disassemble the light fixture, be aware of small parts falling, possibly into the water. At this point, use the cleaning supplies to wipe the inside of the fixture and the lens. Vinegar or window cleaner is best; harsh chemicals can sometimes harm the glass. Dependent on the type of light, you may have a reflective cup wipe it out using the same cleaner used for the lens.
Now that the fixture has been opened grab a towel to grip the bulb and slowly unscrew it. After the bulb has been removed, use the towel to dry and clean the inside of the fixture.
https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91smY4bTZNL._AC_UL640_QL65_ML3_.jpg
After replacing the pool light bulb, test the light to see if it works. It will save time if you find later you replaced a bulb in an un-operational fixture.
Screw in the replacement pool light bulb slowly and carefully. Make sure it’s tight, but be careful not to tighten it too much. You risk breaking it that way. Install the lens gasket around the lens, and then reassemble the fixture. Important: Pool lights are not designed to operate out of the water, so make sure you turn the light on only long enough to see if it’s operational.
Even More Important: Once you’ve determined that light works, turn the power off again to finish the installation.
As you replace the fixture, make sure no air escapes from the sealed outer edges of the light. If you see air bubbles, take the fixture back out of the water, and repeat the process of making it apart, drying it inside, and putting it back together. Test again until you no longer see bubbles.’
Once you are ok to put insert, the fixture pushes the excess wiring back into the wall. Make sure the wire is not crimped, and the screw holes in the fixture line up. Move gently back and forth to make sure it’s not binding and replace the screws.
Congratulations on a job well done at the same time you have just saved $120-$175 and learned how to replace a pool light fixture all on your own!
Now take that well-deserved refreshing dip.