How to Change a Bulb In a Flush-Mounted Light Fixture

A flush-mounted light fixture is a type of light fixture that is installed on a ceiling, with its rim positioned flush against the ceiling. This type of ceiling light fixture is often used in bedrooms, hallways and foyers, and is recommended for use with lower ceilings.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Lower-wattage bulb
• Flathead screwdriver or razor knife
• Stepladder

Spring-Loaded Light Fixture

1. Flush-mounted light fixtures that are spring-loaded will typically have two springs holding the metal collar in place.

2. Using the flathead screwdriver or razor knife, loosen the paint by moving around the metal collar where it attaches to the ceiling.

3. Attempt to pry the light fixture from the springs by pulling down with your hands.

4. If you cannot remove fixture with your hands, use the flathead screwdriver or razor knife to pry it off by sliding it under the mouth of the metal collar and prying down.

5. The light fixture will hold itself in place as you change the bulb. Simply remove the existing bulb and replace it with the new one.

6. Replace the fixture by popping it back into place.

Screw-Off Light Fixture

7. Screw-off flush-mounted light fixtures either have glass globes that unscrew from the metal collar or a metal base that unscrews from the globe.

8. For fixtures that unscrew from the metal collar, begin unscrewing the globe counterclockwise with your hands. Some fixtures will only unscrew one-fourth of a turn, while others need to be turned multiple times to remove.

9. For fixtures that unscrew from a metal base, unscrew the base counterclockwise, using your hands.

10. Once the globe is off, remove the existing bulb and replace it with the new one.

11. Replace the globe by screwing it back on.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not screw glass globes too tightly or they may break.