The Proper Way to Change a Light Bulb: a Handyman’s Guide

Changing a light bulb might seem like one of the simplest household tasks. Yet, plenty of homeowners either do it incorrectly or put themselves at risk without realizing it. From choosing the right bulb to handling fixtures safely, there’s more to this job than just twisting glass.

As a handyman, I often get calls for “simple” fixes that went wrong — burned sockets, broken bulbs stuck in fixtures, or electrical hazards from careless mistakes. That’s why it’s worth taking a deeper look at the proper way to go about changing a light bulb.

Step 1: Turn Off the Power

The most common mistake people make is leaving the light switch on while trying to change a bulb. Even if the fixture is “off,” current can sometimes linger in faulty switches or wiring. The safest practice is to:

• Turn off the light switch.
• For ceiling fixtures or lamps, unplug the fixture if possible.
• If you’re working on a tricky or recessed light, consider flipping the circuit breaker to be extra safe.

This reduces the risk of electric shock and also ensures you’re not handling a hot bulb.

Step 2: Let the Bulb Cool

Incandescent and halogen bulbs can become extremely hot within minutes of being on. Trying to unscrew one right after it’s been used can burn your fingers. Wait 5–10 minutes until the bulb has cooled to the touch.

If you’re in a hurry, wear protective gloves or use a clean cloth to gently grip the bulb.

Step 3: Choose the Right Replacement Bulb

Not every light bulb is interchangeable. Before you remove the old one, check for:

• Wattage rating on the fixture (never exceed this).
• Bulb base size (E26 for standard bulbs, GU10, bayonet, etc.).
• Bulb type (LED, CFL, halogen, incandescent).
• Color temperature (soft white, daylight, warm).

Using the wrong wattage can overheat and damage your fixture, while mismatched bases simply won’t fit. LEDs are often the best choice today — they’re energy-efficient, cool to the touch, and last much longer than traditional bulbs.

Step 4: Remove the Old Bulb Safely

Stand on a sturdy step stool or ladder if you’re dealing with a ceiling fixture. Avoid chairs or unstable surfaces. Grip the bulb gently but firmly and twist counterclockwise until it releases.

If the bulb is stuck:

• Wear gloves and gently wiggle it free.
• For broken bulbs, use pliers with a cloth for grip — but make sure the power is off before attempting this.

Step 5: Install the New Bulb Properly

Take your new bulb and line up the base with the socket. Insert and twist clockwise until snug — but don’t over tighten. Over-tightening can damage the socket or make removal harder later on.

Turn the power back on and test the light. If it doesn’t turn on, check:

• The bulb is screwed in fully.
• The bulb type is correct.
• The fixture’s switch or wiring isn’t faulty.

Extra Safety Tips

• Always keep one hand free when on a ladder.
• Don’t use wet hands when handling electrical fixtures.
• Replace multiple bulbs in a fixture at the same time for consistent brightness.
• Keep extra bulbs of the correct type on hand for quick swaps.

Frequently Asked Questions about Changing Light Bulbs

Final Thoughts

Changing a light bulb may look simple, but doing it correctly prevents injury, fixture damage, and wasted money on the wrong replacements. By following the proper steps — turning off power, choosing the right bulb, handling with care, and double-checking safety — you can make this routine task stress-free.

But if you’re dealing with stuck bulbs, broken sockets, or any wiring issues, don’t risk it. That’s when it’s time to bring in a professional handyman.