Maintaining a swimming pool requires regular attention to various components, including the underwater lighting. Whether the need arises due to a burnt-out bulb, electrical issues, or a desire to upgrade the ambiance, changing a swimming pool light is a task that can be accomplished with proper safety precautions and a step-by-step approach. By following the guidelines outlined below, you can safely and effectively swap out an old pool light for a new one, ensuring optimal illumination for your aquatic oasis.
Before embarking on the task, it is essential to prioritize safety. Remember to turn off the power supply to the pool at the main electrical panel to prevent any potential electrical hazards. Once the power is disconnected, you can gather the necessary tools for the job, such as a screwdriver, pliers, and possibly a ladder or step stool if needed to reach the underwater light fixture.
Identifying the Type of Pool Light
Before you can change a swimming pool light, you need to identify the type of light you have. There are several different types of pool lights, and each type has its own unique characteristics and installation requirements.
The most common types of pool lights include:
- Incandescent lights: Incandescent lights are the most traditional type of pool light. They use a filament that glows when an electric current passes through it. Incandescent lights are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, but they are not as energy-efficient as other types of lights.
- Fluorescent lights: Fluorescent lights use a fluorescent coating on the inside of a glass tube to produce light. Fluorescent lights are more energy-efficient than incandescent lights, but they can be more expensive to install. They also tend to have a shorter lifespan than incandescent lights.
- LED lights: LED lights use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to produce light. LEDs are very energy-efficient and have a long lifespan. They are also more resistant to damage than other types of lights. However, LED lights can be more expensive to install.
You can usually identify the type of pool light you have by looking at the housing of the light. The housing will typically be made of plastic or metal, and it will have a label that indicates the type of light inside. If you cannot find a label, you can try to identify the type of light by its appearance. Incandescent lights have a filament that is visible through the glass bulb. Fluorescent lights have a long, thin tube that is coated with a fluorescent coating. LED lights have a small, round LED that is mounted on a circuit board.
Once you have identified the type of pool light you have, you can follow the instructions in the next section to change the light.
Preparing for the Replacement
Before you dive into the water to change the pool light, it’s crucial to take the time for proper preparation. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure a smooth and safe replacement:
1. Power Down and Drain the Pool
For safety reasons, it’s imperative to turn off the power to the pool at the circuit breaker or fuse box. Then, drain the water level in the pool below the level of the light fixture to avoid electrical hazards.
2. Locate and Remove the Fixture
To locate the pool light, look for a submersible fixture housing in the pool wall or floor. Depending on the type of light fixture, you may need to unscrew a ring or use a flathead screwdriver to remove the faceplate. Once the faceplate is removed, you’ll have access to the bulb or LED assembly inside.
| Fixture Type | Removal Method |
|---|---|
| Screw-on Ring | Unscrew the ring counterclockwise |
| Recessed Faceplate | Insert a flathead screwdriver into the slots and pry the faceplate open |
| Flush-mounted | Pull or twist the light fixture to detach it from the housing |
3. Disconnect the Wires
Once the fixture is removed, disconnect the wires leading to the light bulb or LED assembly. Typically, there will be two wires, a hot wire and a neutral wire. Carefully untwist the wire nuts and label each wire with tape or a marker to aid reconnection during installation.
Shutting Off Electrical Power
1. Locate the Circuit Breaker Panel
Identify the electrical panel that controls the swimming pool equipment, typically located in the garage, basement, or outdoors.
2. Shut Off the Main Circuit Breaker
Flip the main circuit breaker to the “OFF” position. This will cut off power to the entire pool system, including the pool light.
3. Identify the Pool Light Circuit Breaker
Locate the circuit breaker labeled “Pool Light” or “Underwater Lighting.” Flip this breaker to the “OFF” position to isolate power to the pool light. If there is no specific breaker labeled for the pool light, refer to the panel’s labeling or consult with a qualified electrician to identify the correct breaker.
To further ensure safety, consider the following additional steps:
- If possible, turn off the pool pump to prevent water from circulating while the light is being replaced.
- Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm that power to the pool light is completely disconnected before proceeding.
- Create a sign or barrier around the pool area to alert others that the power is off and the pool should not be used.
Draining the Pool Water
Before you can change a swimming pool light, you need to drain the pool water. This may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple.
- Turn off the power to the pool pump.
- Attach a garden hose to the drain plug at the bottom of the pool.
- Open the valve on the drain plug to start draining the water.
- Once the water has drained, you’ll need to remove the light fixture from the pool wall. On some fixtures, the light fixture can be unscrewed from its socket. On other fixtures, you’ll need to remove the screws that hold the light in place.
- Disconnect the electrical wires from the light fixture.
- Be sure to replace the light fixture with a new one that is compatible with your pool. Make the electrical connections and secure everything in place.
- Turn on the power to the pool pump and refill the pool with water. Turn on the light to make sure it’s working properly.
Removing the Light Fixture
Once you’ve drained the pool and removed the bolts holding the light in place, it’s time to remove the light fixture. This can be a bit tricky, as the light is typically sealed in place with a rubber gasket. Here’s how to do it without damaging the light or the pool:
1. Grip the light fixture firmly with both hands.
2. Gently twist the light counterclockwise to break the seal.
3. Pull the light straight out of the housing.
4. Inspect the rubber gasket for any damage.
5. If the gasket is damaged, replace it with a new one.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the two bolts that hold the light in place. |
| 2 | Using a wrench, carefully remove the bolts. |
| 3 | Once the bolts are removed, gently pull the light straight out of the housing. |
| 4 | Inspect the rubber gasket for any damage. |
| 5 | If the gasket is damaged, replace it with a new one. |
| 6 | Insert the new gasket into the housing. |
| 7 | Push the light back into the housing until it is firmly seated. |
| 8 | Tighten the bolts to secure the light in place. |
Replacing the Bulb or LEDs
Replacing the bulb or LEDs in your swimming pool light is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few steps. First, you will need to gather the following materials:
- New light bulb or LEDs
- Screwdriver
- Wire strippers
- Electrical tape
- Waterproof sealant
Once you have gathered your materials, you can begin the process of replacing the light bulb or LEDs.
1. **Turn off the power to the pool light.** This is typically done at the circuit breaker panel.
2. **Remove the lens from the light housing.** This is usually done by unscrewing the screws that hold the lens in place.
3. **Disconnect the wires from the light bulb or LEDs.** Use the wire strippers to cut the wires about 6 inches from the light bulb or LEDs.
4. **Strip the insulation from the ends of the wires.** This will allow you to connect the wires to the new light bulb or LEDs.
5. **Connect the wires to the new light bulb or LEDs.** Twist the ends of the wires together and wrap them with electrical tape.
6. **Reinstall the lens on the light housing.** Tighten the screws to secure the lens in place.
7. **Turn on the power to the pool light.** The new light bulb or LEDs should now be working.
Reinstalling the Light Fixture
Now that the wires are connected, it’s time to reinstall the light fixture. Here’s how to do it:
1. Line up the fixture: Carefully align the light fixture with the opening in the pool wall.
2. Screw in the bolts: Using the bolts that came with the fixture, screw them into the holes in the pool wall. Tighten the bolts securely, but don’t overtighten them.
3. Check the alignment: Once the bolts are tightened, check to make sure that the light fixture is properly aligned and seated in the opening.
4. Install the gasket: If there is a gasket included with the fixture, place it over the bolts to create a watertight seal.
5. Tighten the nuts: Use the nuts to secure the fixture to the bolts. Tighten them until they are snug, but don’t overtighten them.
6. Connect the wires to the fixture: Connect the wires from the pool to the corresponding terminals on the light fixture. Make sure that the connections are tight and secure.
7. Test the light: Once the wires are connected, turn on the pool’s power and test the light to make sure that it’s working properly. If the light doesn’t turn on, check the wiring to make sure that it’s connected correctly.
Step 6: Reattaching the Fixture
After replacing the bulb, carefully guide the fixture back into its housing. Push it gently until it fits securely. Ensure all screws are tightened to hold the fixture in place.
Step 7: Restoring Power
Restoring Power and Testing
Turning on the Circuit Breaker
Once the fixture is reattached, return to the circuit breaker panel and switch the breaker back on. The power should be restored to the pool light.
Testing the Light
- Go back to the pool and enter the water.
- Turn on the light switch for the pool.
- The light should illuminate the pool area.
- If the light does not come on, check the following:
- Check the bulb again to ensure it’s properly installed.
- Check the wiring connections to make sure they’re secure.
- If the issue persists, contact an electrician for further assistance.
Step 8: Optional: Replacing the Lens
While the fixture is disconnected, you can also replace the lens if it’s cracked or scratched. Here’s how:
| Step 1: | Remove the screws holding the lens in place. |
|---|---|
| Step 2: | Gently pull out the old lens. |
| Step 3: | Slide the new lens into place. |
| Step 4: | Tighten the screws to secure the lens. |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter any issues while replacing your swimming pool light, here are some common problems and their potential solutions:
1. The light doesn’t turn on when the switch is flipped
Check if the breaker for the pool is tripped or if there is a blown fuse. Check the wiring connections to ensure they are secure and not damaged.
2. The light flickers or dims intermittently
Loose wiring or water in the light fixture can cause flickering or dimming. Tighten any loose connections and check the gasket around the light fixture for leaks.
3. The light is not as bright as before
Over time, the bulb can become less efficient. Replace the bulb with a new one of the same wattage and voltage.
4. There is water inside the light fixture
Check the gasket around the light fixture for leaks. Replace the gasket if it is damaged or worn and reseal the light fixture with silicone caulk.
5. The light is loose or rattling
Tighten the bolts or screws that secure the light fixture to the pool wall or niche.
6. The light is too hot to touch
Turn off the pool light and let it cool down before handling it. Check if the bulb is overheating or if the wiring is damaged.
7. The light is emitting a strange odor
Turn off the pool light and disconnect it from the power source immediately. The odor could indicate a burning wire or overheating components.
8. The light keeps tripping the breaker
There may be a short circuit or overload in the wiring. Check the wiring and replace any damaged components. Contact a licensed electrician if necessary.
9. The bulb size is not compatible with the light fixture
Refer to the specifications of the light fixture to determine the correct bulb size. Installing a bulb that is too large or small can cause the light to malfunction or overheat.
Safety Considerations
Before attempting to change a swimming pool light, it is crucial to prioritize safety. Here are 10 essential safety precautions to observe:
How To Change A Swimming Pool Light
Have you ever wondered how to change a swimming pool light? It’s not as difficult as you might think. With a few simple tools and a little time, you can do it yourself and save some money. Here are the steps on how to change a swimming pool light:
- Turn off the power to the pool at the circuit breaker.
- Remove the screws that hold the light fixture in place and carefully lift it out of the pool.
- Disconnect the wires from the old light fixture and connect them to the new light fixture.
- Place the new light fixture back into the pool and screw it into place.
- Turn the power back on at the circuit breaker.
People Also Ask
How often should I change my swimming pool light?
Every 3-5 years
The average lifespan of a swimming pool light is 3-5 years. However, this can vary depending on the type of light, the quality of the water, and how often the light is used.
Can I change the bulb in my swimming pool light myself?
Yes
Yes, you can change the bulb in your swimming pool light yourself. However, it is important to turn off the power to the pool at the circuit breaker before doing so.
How much does it cost to change a swimming pool light?
$100-$500
The cost to change a swimming pool light can vary depending on the type of light and the location of the pool. However, the average cost is between $100 and $500.
