Saturday, March 29, 2014

How to replace a swimming pool light

Most swimming pools come with pool lights, for night swimming and to lend ambience to a pool and its surroundings. However, just like any other light bulb, pool lights also have the tendency to burn out and require replacement. This will require a slightly different procedure compared to changing a regular light bulb. Some pool lights, after all, are installed in areas where they are very close to water, which may result in electric shocks for swimmers. Changing pool lights properly demands expertise.

Image Source: lerablog.org
Here is a short guide, detailing a few helpful steps that must be followed when one changes a pool light:

Turn off – First off, turn off all the lights at your electrical box or circuit breaker. Just to make sure, use a non-contact voltage sensor to check for possible current, even if the switches are in the “off” position.

Image Source: todayshomeowner.com

Remove the single screw – Pool light casings are usually secured by a single screw at the casing’s topmost part. Check for the type of screw used in the casing. Screws used in these casings may be slotted or Philips-head.

Pry, pry, pry – Using a flat-head screwdriver, carefully pry the casing, with the light bulb inside, out of its outlet. Most casings have a loose tab near the bottom to make this easier.

Image Source: wikihow.com
Pull out of water – Uncoil the cord, and pull the entire casing out of the water, being careful not to open the lightbulb within.

Remove the lens – Once the entire thing is in a relatively dry place, remove the lens covering the bulb. Depending on how old the casing is, you might have to unscrew a few more screws, or pry open a few more metal tabs, in order to get to the light bulb.

Replace the bulb – Upon removing the lens, you are now free to replace the light bulb as you wish. Then, simply put everything back in its place, and place the casing back into its outlet.

Blue World Pools provides pool lighting options for a variety of indoor and outdoor pool setups. To find out more tips for practical pool lighting maintenance, visit the company website.