Typically, you would find most inground pools with one or more lights. Just like your house lights, it consists of bulbs that help to perk-up the swimming pool. These bulbs are housed in a fixture with a glass lens, sealed with a rubber gasket and cramps or screws to prevent water from going in.
However, the level of protection will not keep the pool light functioning forever. At some point in its life span, the lights could become faulty, requiring a total replacement of the light fixture or the bulb.
This could be a complicated task if you do not know your way around getting the light fixed. That is why most pool owners employ a professional’s service to conduct some investigation and profile the best remedy.
Right here, we will be discussing every single detail necessary in your underwater pool light replacement.
How to Replace Inground Pool Light?
If your pool light stops working, they could be several reasons why it stopped. The issue could either be in the fixture and its components or from the source power supply. With proper investigation, you can get those fixed.
If the issue is from the light fixture, the simplest solution is to replace the globe or the entire light fixture. Pool light globes are less expensive compared to the light fixture. So, you would need proper investigation before carrying out any step.
To carry out your replacement, first;
Step 1: Switch off the light from the power source. If you do not know where the direct light source to the pool is coming from, you can call an electrician.
Step 2: Unscrew the fixture and remove it from its niche. Unravel the chord and place everything on the deck of the pool for analysis for any possible damage. On the condition that the pool is filled with water, wear a goggle or an underwater mask to help you see clearly while you deep half of your body into the water to unscrew the fixture.
Step 3: Loosen or remove the screws or clamps that hold the lens to the metal fixture. You will also need to remove the rubber gasket that sits between the fixture and the lens. Make sure not to splash water in the fixture.
Step 4: Check for any possible corrosion or leak. If there is, you will have to change the entire fixture as replacing the bulb alone will only solve the problem temporarily.
Step 5: If the fixture is in good condition, unscrew the old bulb and replace it with a new one. Make sure the bulb is identical to the type built for the fixture.
Step 5: Turn the power on to test whether it works before covering up with the lens. Wait for at least a minute to be sure.
Step 6: Replace the rubber gasket. But first, remember to replace the rubber gasket with a new one as using the old one might not hold well while in water. It might allow water to go in. Then cover with the lens and screw.
Step 7: Place the fixture back to the niche and screw the top. Once done, power back on the light to restore the electricity to the swimming pool.
Pool Light Repair Cost
On average, pool lights repair may cost around $625. The cost of changing the bulbs is relatively cheaper compared to replacing the entire fixture. To repair each pool light, you could be spending between $65 to $150 each, while a bulb could cost around $20 to $100. Bulbs come in different types, so be prepared to spend higher on colorful LED bulbs.
Conclusion
Changing swimming pool light is no rocket science if you know what you are doing. In case you see the need to involve a professional, feel free as this could save further damage and cost.
However, most professionals always prefer the easy side by changing the entire fixture rather than the bulb because there is no guarantee that the light will not leak after bulb replacement.