Changing Fluorescent Light Bulbs Safely

Black ends don t require immediate replacement.

Changing fluorescent light bulbs safely. This procedure would not apply for example to changing a light bulb in a desk or floor lamp where the fixture can simply be unplugged. Photo 1 shows how to tell if a fluorescent bulb is bad and how to replace it. But you should have new bulbs on hand so you can replace them promptly when they do. How to replace a fluorescent light bulb to change the bulb safely.

When fluorescent bulbs flicker have dark or smoky colored ends it s time to replace the bulb and you re faced with the choice of making a trip to the local hardware store and doing it yourself or hiring a qualified licensed electrician. Fluorescent bulbs can go for years without replacement even when the ends start to blacken. Don t worry about them until the light they put out starts to weaken. Always check the power is off before attempting to change the bulb.

Fluorescent light bulbs typically last many years but when one flickers on and off or the end turns light gray to black in color you ll just need replacement light bulbs. If you are going to replace fluorescent light with led lighting you must take into consideration the color temperature. Fluorescent tubes are designed to last for many years so when it comes to changing them you might not have done it before. This procedure applies to bulb changing in complex environments with a variety of hazards such as fall and electric shock.

Although replacing a fluorescent tube is simple it s not as straightforward as changing a regular light bulb and it can actually be quite dangerous. Replace the bulb with the same size bulb. As a whole this procedure provides general guidelines to change a light bulb safely. Then follow the steps outlined here.

Cfl bulbs or compact fluorescent light bulbs use an electric current driven through a tube typically containing mercury vapor. There could be a problem with the bulbs. Position a stepladder solidly under the light and have the new bulb ready. Does your fluorescent light flicker or only come on dimly.

By contrast a high kelvin figure like 4000k means the color is cool and white in appearance.