Quick Guide: How to change a pool light

Replacing a pool light can seem daunting, but with the right tools and guidance, it’s a manageable DIY project. Follow these steps to ensure a safe and efficient replacement of your pool light.

Safety First: Turn Off Power to the Pool Light

Before replacing a pool light bulb, ensure the power to the pool light is turned off. Locate the circuit breaker connected to the pool lighting and switch it off. This step is crucial to avoid any electrical hazards while working with the light fixture.

Gather Your Tools and Materials

For this task, you will need:

Replacement light bulb
Screwdriver (flathead or Phillips, depending on your light fixture)
Gasket or O-ring (if not included with the new light)
Silicone lubricant (for sealing)

Test for Power

Safety first! Turn off the power to your pool light at the circuit breaker to avoid the risk of electric shock. Double-check that the power is off by using a voltage tester and to ensure there is no electrical current running to the light. This step ensures your safety while handling the fixture.

Disconnect the Wiring

Carefully disconnect the wiring from the old light fixture. Take note of how the wires are connected as you will need to reconnect them to the new fixture.

Remove the Old Pool Light Fixture

Depending on the type of pool light you have, you may need to remove the faceplate or trim ring first. Use a screwdriver to loosen and remove any screws holding the fixture in place. Once the screws are removed, carefully pull the fixture out of the niche.

Locate the Pool Light Fixture: Find the screw that secures the pool light fixture to the wall of the pool. It’s usually a single screw at the top of the fixture.
Unscrew the Fixture: Use a screwdriver to remove the screw. Keep the screw in a safe place to prevent it from falling into the pool.
Pull Out the Light Fixture: Gently pull the fixture out of the niche. There should be enough cord to bring the light to the pool deck. Lay the pool light fixture on a towel to keep it from getting scratched.
Remove the Old Bulb: Carefully remove the old bulb from the fixture. Handle it gently to avoid breaking it.
Check the Gasket: Inspect the gasket or O-ring around the lens. If it is damaged or worn, replace it to ensure a proper seal and prevent water from entering the fixture.

Install the New Pool Light Bulb

Attach the wiring to the new pool light fixture, following the same configuration as the old fixture. Gently place the new fixture into the niche, ensuring that it is properly aligned.

Insert the New Bulb: Place the new bulb into the fixture, ensuring it is securely in place.
Reassemble the Fixture: Replace the lens cover and secure it with screws or clips. Ensure the gasket is correctly positioned to prevent leaks.

Test the New Light

Before sealing everything up, turn the power back on and test the new pool light to ensure it is working correctly. If everything looks good, turn the power back off before proceeding to the next step.Seal the Light Fixture

Once you confirm the pool light works and there are no leaks, turn the power off again.

Apply silicone lubricant to the gasket or O-ring to ensure a watertight seal. Carefully place the faceplate or trim ring back over the fixture and tighten any screws to secure it in place.

Secure the Fixture: Coil the excess cord into the niche and place the fixture back into the wall of the pool. Secure it with the screw you set aside earlier.
Check for Leaks: Ensure there are no leaks around the fixture. If water is entering the light, turn off the power and check the gasket and seal.

Restore Power and Enjoy!

Turn the power back on at the circuit breaker and marvel at your newly installed pool light. Now you can enjoy swimming under the soft glow of your new pool light!