Incandescent lamps are made up of a plug, cord, switch, socket, and the body. Over time parts wear out and have to be replaced. Find out more about lamp replacement parts for easy lamp repairs.
If your lamp quits works start by testing the light bulb. Then check the receptacle by plugging the lamp into another receptacle. Next check the plug and the cord for damage such as broken contacts, wear, or wires showing.
Before doing any work on your lamp make sure it is unplugged. Lamps put together with nuts and bolts can be disassembled for repair. However if your lamp is riveted you'll be unable to repair and have to buy a replacement. Here's how to replace lamp parts.
1. Cord
Disconnect the old cord by simply cutting it off with a pair of wire cutters. Leave about 3" below the bottom of the lamp. Now tape the new cord to the 3" piece using electrical tape and then pull the new cord up through the stem of the lamp by pulling the old cord out from the top. Once it's pulled through you can discard the old cord.
2. Socket
Remove the old socket then pull up the old cord and cut below the underwriters knot. Now slip the replacement socket cap onto the cord. Tie the wires into underwriters knot. Next strip ¾" of insulation of each of the wires, twist the strands together, and then fasten the wires to the socket screws. Silver goes on silver and the other goes to the brass. Now pull the cap over the underwriters know and reassemble.
There are all kings of incandescent fixtures including chandeliers, ceiling fixtures, wall mounts and more. Some have one bulb while others may have several. The following are instructions for repairing fixed mounted lighting that is wired directly into your homes wiring system.
If you've checked the bulb and it's fine you'll need to check the circuit and the light switch next. Shut the power off to the circuit then remove the fixture from the ceiling and examine for any loose connections. If you see any tighten them up. If it still isn't working you can replace or repair following these steps.
1. Replace The Fixture
If you have to replace the light fixture start with the main power shut off take the bulb out of the fixture then unscrew the cap nuts. This will free the light from the ceiling box. Disconnect the old fixture. Strip ½" off the wires on the new fixture; now wrap the bare ends around the circuit wires then bent over.
Next install the wire nuts and slowly slide the new fixture onto the screw for the ceiling box. Screw on the cap nuts, check that the fixtures secure, and then replace the bulb. Turn the power back on and check the fixture. If it's working your problem is solved. If it's not you've got bigger problems.
2. Replace the Pre-Wire Socket
Turn the main power off to the fixture and remove the shade. Unscrew the screws to free the fixture. Next unscrew the wire nuts. This will disconnect the socket wires from circuit wires. Unclip the faulty socket and then remove it. Push the wires through to attach the new socket. Now splice them into the circuit wires with wire nuts. Reattach the fixture and replace the shade. Turn the power on and test.
3. Rewire A Chandelier Arm
Turn the main power off then remove the sleeve and detach the wires from the terminal screws on the socket. Next unscrew the socket and remove the cap that is under the fixture. You need to temporarily tape the new socket wires to the old wires. Now you need to detach the old wires from the main cord and then pull the new wires through. Next screw on the new socket and connect the new socket wires. Now you can remove the old socket wires. Put the fixture back together, turn on power on and test.
Once you've picked up your lamp replacement parts the repairs are relatively simple to do. Just follow these easy instructions and you'll be "seeing the light" in no time!
