Light bulb replacement can be all it takes to fix it if a light in your home isn't working, no electrician required. It is one of those small home maintenance tasks every homeowner should be comfortable doing. The process takes just a few minutes once you know your wattage and follow the right steps, whether you are changing a light bulb indoors or replacing one on an external fitting. This guide walks you through how to replace a light bulb safely, for both internal and external fittings.
Not all LED light bulbs for home use are the same, so it is worth checking your fitting before you buy a replacement:
The bulb likely just needs replacing if it has visibly blown, looks discoloured, or rattles when shaken. If a new bulb doesn't fix the issue, or the light flickers, trips the switch, or several lights are affected at once, this points to an electrical fault rather than the bulb. In that case, check our home repair and emergencies guide and contact a qualified electrician.
Most clip-in household fittings take a 7W LED clip-in bulb. Use a screw-in bulb rated for that fitting if your fitting has a screw-in socket. Check the old bulb or fitting for the correct wattage before buying a replacement.
Yes. Always switch the light off at the wall first, for both internal and external light bulb replacement, before removing the bowl, cover, or bulb.
A star screwdriver is typically all you need to remove and replace the cover on most external light fittings.
The steps above are given as general guidance for general clip-in and screw-in light fittings. Always switch off the power at the wall before starting, see our electrical safety tips for more on working safely around your home's wiring, and if you are ever unsure about a fitting, rather contact a qualified electrician.
DISCLAIMER: The recommendations herein are given in good faith and are meant to guide the user. The recommendations imply no guarantee since the conditions of use and method of application are beyond our control.