How To Change A Light Socket

The tester should not light up for either test.

How to change a light socket. Touch the probe of a non contact voltage tester to the metal tab inside the socket. In an on off screw in socket that s the brass tab in the center at the bottom. Step 3 grasp the socket and turn it counterclockwise to unscrew it. Remove the light bulb from the socket then use a non contact voltage tester to check for power in the light socket.

Some light sockets have one or two screws placed through the base of the socket which are used to attach it to a mounting bracket. Use your non contact tester to see if the socket has power. Always disconnect the power by flipping the room s circuit breaker before working with electricity. Most hardware stores or light fixture outlet stores carry a wide range of replacement light sockets.

Turn the multimeter selector switch to 250 acv alternating current voltage touch the red wire lead to the. Flip the light switch and test the socket again. The wiring will be a little different but the process closely resembles changing a socket. Replace the light socket step 1 shut off the power to the fan s circuit at the service panel or breaker box.

Then unscrew the current light fixture and separate its wires from the ones in the ceiling. Remove any globe or shade covering the socket on the fan. Turn it on and get it close to where the power should be. That warm glow means you ve just learned how to change a light socket.

Unscrew the switch cover plate cover and the switch. Unscrew the light bulb from the faulty socket in a counterclockwise direction and set it aside. Plug in your lamp and switch it on. Light switches are basically wall sockets with a toggle switch instead of outlets.

Replace the harp light bulb and shade. If you have a little electrical experience and a basic toolkit you can replace your old ceiling light socket yourself. Turn the power off if it s a portable fixture unplug it. The replacement socket must be the same as the original having the same voltage and watt allowance and mounting method.

Screw the appropriate wire lead to the appropriate terminal of the new socket. Turn off the power and test by touching the terminal screws with a voltmeter. Then place the new socket shell over the socket and push the cover down until it snaps into the new socket shell cap. Loosen the socket cap set screw and then unscrew and discard it along with the old socket shell and socket.

Pull the socket straight up until there is slight tension from the wiring. Replace the harp light bulb and shade. Screw the wire leads to the new socket.