How to Repair a Light in a Shower Stall
Having an overhead light in the shower can make the entire bathing process much more enjoyable. Keeping that light functioning properly is easy with proper installation, but no matter how a light is installed there is always the possibility that repairs could be necessary. The moisture and humidity in a shower stall make keeping your shower light in good working condition an important safety concern, so be proactive if you notice a problem and fix it immediately. In most cases, you can do it in just a few minutes. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Overhead shower light replacement seal
- Caulk approved for shower and bath
- 20-2 electrical wiring (if necessary)
Instructions
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Troubleshoot the problem to determine how you will fix it. A common problem with shower lights is that they continue to work but condensation and moisture are building up within the overhead shower light fixture. If you catch it early, this can be fixed before any significant damage occurs in the wiring. If the light won't turn on even though you've checked and replaced the bulb, you may have to perform more-significant repairs because of wire corrosion from extended exposure to humidity.
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Purchase a replacement seal for the shower light at a local hardware store. Remove the light fixture, leaving the wiring and light in place. Take out the old seal, which may show signs of deterioration or cracking, and replace with the new seal. Use a flat-head screwdriver to snap the seal into place securely.
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Reattach the fixture to the overhead shower light. Use a ladder to get as close to a horizontal view of the light as possible. Inspect for gaps or crevices, and if any are present, use shower and bath caulk to seal the light off completely. Steam from the shower can easily penetrate cracks if they are not sealed, and the combination of moisture and running electricity is not safe for individuals using the shower.
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Rewire the shower light if the light still does not work. Shut off power at the main circuit breaker in the home and access the wiring (how you do so will vary according to the house's structure). Work one wire at a time, removing one length and attaching an identical new piece in exactly the same places. After each repair, you may want to have a friend or family member test the light so that you don't replace more than is necessary.
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