How to Replace a Fluorescent Light Bulb (DIY)

Step 3

Remove the fluorescent light socket

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Slide out the fluorescent light socket to expose the wiring. It’s very important to keep the wiring order straight, so cut one side of the old socket wiring loose at a time. Strip the wiring back 1/2 in., then press the bare wire ends into the terminal slots on the new socket. The terminal slot works like a barbed fishhook; once a wire is pushed in, it cannot be pulled out. Repeat the process for the remaining wires and then replace the socket.

How to Change Auto Light Bulbs

Step 4

Close up

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Push the stripped wire into the new terminal, being careful to insert the correct wire into each terminal.

Fluorescent light fixtures are durable and virtually maintenance free, but occasionally service and repair are required. If you’ve got a fluorescent fixture that doesn’t light up, flickers on and off, or won’t hold a bulb, we’ll show you how to troubleshoot the problem. Replacement parts are easy to install and can be found at home centers and hardware stores.

If the fixture won’t light up at all, it may not be getting power. Check the circuit breaker or fuse box, and reset or replace the necessary equipment.

Fluorescent light bulbs typically last many years, but when one flickers on and off, or the end turns light gray to black in color, you’ll just need replacement light bulbs. Photo 1 shows how to tell if a fluorescent bulb is bad and how to replace it. Replace the bulb with the same size bulb.

Another common problem is cracked sockets, caused by bumps from other objects or stress from removing a bulb. Shut down power to the light, remove the bulbs and then open up the fixture to gain access to the broken socket (Photo 2). There will be two or four wires coming into the socket. Keep the wiring straight by swapping wires from one side of the socket at a time as shown in Photo 3.

If the fixture still doesn’t work, then the ballast is probably shot. The ballast boosts the incoming voltage to start the tubes, and then regulates the current to provide continuous light. Ballast replacement can cost as much as a new fixture, so buying a new fixture may be a better investment.

Unplug the light before making repairs, or turn off the circuit at the main panel.

Energy Act Requires New Light Bulbs to Conserve Energy