Changed a Light Bulb Now Fixture Does Not Work
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What caused a light fixtures to stop working after I changed the light bulb? Homes with old electrical wiring could experience problems that will require some electrical trouble shooting to locate the problem. |
Why Light Fixtures Stop Working
[ad#block]Electrical Question:What caused a light fixture to stop working after I changed the light bulb?
- I was recently changing a burnt out light bulb in my kitchen and when finished I flipped the switch to make sure the light was good.
- This tripped the breaker.
- I switched the circuit breaker back on.
- I tried it again with a different bulb.
- The same thing happened.
This is an older home with older wiring and the fixture has seen better days.
What do you think is going on?
Thanks,
Steve
This electrical question came from: Steve, a Homeowner from Shellbrook Saskatchewan, Canada.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Steve.
Light Fixture Problem and Electrical Wiring
Application: Electrical Troubleshooting Light Fixture Wiring.
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate – Best performed by a Licensed Electrician..
Tools Required: Basic Hand Tools and Safe Ladder.
Estimated Time: Depends on personal experience, the light fixture and access to the light fixture.
Precaution: Identify the light fixture circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
Notice: Replacement parts for the light fixture should be compatible with the type of lamps that have been installed.
Old Light Fixtures May Have Deteriorating Electrical Wiring
Homes with old electrical wiring could experience problems that will require some electrical trouble shooting to locate the problem. The following will help to identify the problem with this light fixture.
- The light fixture and the wiring will need to be examined carefully to determine the fault and necessary repairs will be needed.
- You should try removing all the light bulbs and restore the power to the circuit to rule out any problems with the light bulbs or light sockets.
- With the circuit turned off, the light fixture may be disconnected from the ceiling electrical wiring, then cap the connections and restore the circuit power to isolate the light fixture from the circuit.
- Isolate each component of the light fixture electrical system until the problem is discovered.
- I suspect a problem with the electrical wiring of the light fixture.
The Following will assist you with Electrical Problems in a Light Fixture
How to Install Kitchen Electrical Wiring
Kitchen Electrical Wiring
- Fully Explained Photos and Wiring Diagrams for Kitchen Electrical Wiring
The following may also be helpful for you:
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i recently was trying to screw in a bulb in my ceiling fan and the bulb popped. Now i replaced the bulb and it works ok, but the dimmer switch on the remote for it does not. i tried replacing battery so i know its not the remote…. PLEASE HELP!!!!!!!
Josh,
The dimmer switch was on while you changed the light bulb when the light bulb popped, so this damaged the dimmer switch and so the dimmer switch will need to be replaced.
This a good example of why you should never replace light bulbs while the switch is on, especially dimmer switches because they are very sensitive and can be easily damage.
Dave
My bath vanity lights will not work. I changed the switch and checked the tabs in the light sockets. I tested the lamp on a different circuit and the lights worked. I installed the lamp in the vanity light fixture and they didn’t work.
Hi William,
The circuit wiring in the bathroom should be tested to make sure the voltage is present, and to make sure the neutral wire is connected and working properly. If either wire of the circuit is not working then each section of the circuit should be tested and evaluated individually. It is possible that a wire splice has failed due to a loose or burnt connection. If this is found then appropriate repairs will be required.
Thanks for sharing William. We hope this will help to repair the problem with your vanity circuit.
Dave
In my property, I changed light bulbs that are connected on the lower and upper switch of the inside stairs. I’m not sure if both switches are the problem? Can someone help me please?