How to Change a Bad Lamp Socket

Do you have a lamp that you absolutely love but can’t use anymore because of a bad socket? With these steps, you can light up a room again with your favorite lamp for less than $10. It doesn’t matter what type of switch you have now; you can replace it with a push-through switch, turn knob, pull chain or a three-way knob.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Pliers
• Wire strippers

Instructions

1. Unplug the lamp before working on it.

2. Take a flat screwdriver and dig the socket covering out of the base. Cut wires connecting to the socket and remove the socket. Loosen the screw on the socket base.

3. Unscrew the socket base from the threaded tube. The base should now spin off. If it still will not screw off, you may need assistance with your pliers.

4. Twist the new socket on, screwing it in with the screwdriver.

5. Take your wire strippers to remove less than an inch of insulation off the wire. Intertwine the wires. Ensure all wire strands are intact, or you will have to start the stripping process over. Wires will be sticking out the top of the new base.

6. Tie a knot in cord. The best type of knot to tie is an underwriter’s knot. This type of knot will keep the wires from pulling on the screw terminals in case someone tugs on the cord.

7. Take the wires and fold them clockwise over the screws. Tighten your screws. The neutral wire will wrap the silver screw.

8. Pull the cord through lamp. Bring any extra cord all the way down the lamp. Place the insulation sleeve and shell over the socket and press the shell into the socket base. Screw a lightbulb in, plug the cord into the power outlet and turn on the light.

Tips & Warnings

• Notice the neutral wire has an indentation or a rib, marking it for you.