How to Remove a Broken Lightbulb
Right when you're trying to remove an old light bulb, it breaks on you, leaving a base stuck inside the socket. Here's how to remove it quickly and safely. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Turn off power to the bulb and unplug the lamp.
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2
Put on protective gloves.
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3
Grip the metal lip of the bulb with needle-nose pliers.
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4
Gently unscrew the bulb base, turning it the same way you would an unbroken bulb. Watch your fingers while turning the bulb base. Sheered glass remnants may still be inside.
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5
Remove the bulb base from the socket.
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6
Be sure to vacuum up any broken glass from the floor.
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Tips & Warnings
Be sure the power is turned off before placing pliers inside the bulb base.
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Comments
View all 16 Comments-
eHowJoe
Jul 07, 2007
Thank you all so much for the "tape at the end of the broom idea"! Tried to remove oven bulb, which of course separated from it's base; but, the "tape at the end of the broom stick" worked like a charm! -
eHowJoe
Jul 07, 2007
Thank you all so much for the "tape at the end of the broom idea"! Tried to remove oven bulb, which of course separated from it's base; but, the "tape at the end of the broom stick" worked like a charm!
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seniorfriend
Apr 30, 2007
Thanks for the suggestion with the tape at the end of a broom - my sister and I used this suggestion and it worked like a charm......we got the biggest kick out of doing it and how easily it removed the broken piece. Thanks again. seniorfriend
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seniorfriend
Apr 30, 2007
Thanks for the suggestion with the tape at the end of a broom - my sister and I used this suggestion and it worked like a charm......we got the biggest kick out of doing it and how easily it removed the broken piece. Thanks again. seniorfriend
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Myradon
Feb 02, 2007
I read this page, and the comments. the Broom stick with tape in the end was by far the best solution for me. I assures the fixture was off, wrapped the end of a wooden broom stick in masking tape and pressed it in as I turned. it released very quickly. Thanks for the help! -Myradon
