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Changing a light bulb is one of the easiest things you can do. Let us show you how.
Changing a light bulb is as easy as home maintenance and DIY gets. But, for those of you who have just moved into a new home and are unsure how to go about it, we’ve got you covered.
What you need to do
Turn off the power
First make sure the power is turned off. The safest way to do this is to switch the large red power button to ‘off’ on the fuse box.
Let it cool
Allow the bulb to cool before touching it.
Use a ladder
Ensure you can safely reach the bulb by using a stepladder.
Remove bulb
Take the bulb out of the socket. The way you do this will depend on whether your bulb has a bayonet mount or a screw fitting:
How to change a bayonet light bulb
Bayonet fitting light bulb
Bayonet Mount (two prongs, standard in the UK):
Grasp the bulb lightly but firmly, push upwards gently and turn anticlockwise until it is released from the socket.
How to change an Edison screw light bulb
Edison screw fitting light bulb
Screw Fitting (most common in Europe):
Keep gently twisting anticlockwise until the bulb comes loose from the socket.
Replace the bulb
Insert a replacement bulb lightly but firmly into the socket. Depending on the type, turn it clockwise until it locks into place or keep gently twisting clockwise until it won’t go any further.
Restore power
Once the bulb is in, turn the power back on again and switch on the light.
Dispose of the old bulb
The old bulb needs to be disposed of safely as the glass is fragile and very sharp. Use the packaging from the new bulb to wrap the old one for safe disposal.
As always, safety is crucial when working with electrical or wiring faults.
Remember:
Check the wattage on the used bulb and replace it with a bulb of the same wattage
Dispose of the bulb well out of the reach of children
Don’t put your fingers in the exposed light socket
Still not switching on once you’ve changed the lightbulb? You may need to fix the light switch.