How to Use Compact Fluorescent Lights to Replace Halogen Bulbs
Compact fluorescent bulbs (CFBs) can only replace halogen bulbs if the lamp has the same socket as a CFB ... and it will fit. Most halogen lamps use smaller bulbs, and the CFL usually won't fit. However, on some halogen floor lamps, you may be able to replace the socket. With thousands of styles of halogen lamps, you need enough electrical and mechanical ability to disassemble the lamp and replace the socket with minimal instructions. And you need to have a lamp assembled with standard hollow threaded rod. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Household screw-base light bulb socket made for standard lamp installation, without switch
- Compact fluorescent bulb
- Screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench or large pliers
Instructions
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Replace the Socket
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1
Turn off the lamp and unplug it from the wall. Allow the lamp and bulb to cool.
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2
Remove any covers over the halogen bulb. Usually they either snap on or are held in place with screws.
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3
Remove the halogen bulb. Some screw in, but bi-pin (two pins) bulbs just pull out. Double-ended tube-type halogen bulbs just snap out. Just pull up on it and it will come out.
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4
Look at the halogen lamp socket. If the lamp has a nut holding it to a hollow threaded rod, with the wires coming up through the hollow tube, you will be able to replace the socket.
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5
Remove the nut holding the halogen lamp socket in place. Use your adjustable wrench or pliers. Remove the socket.
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6
Screw the new socket onto the hollow threaded rod, with the wires coming up through the hole in the center.
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7
Connect the wires to the screw terminals at the base of the new socket.
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8
Screw the bulb into the socket. Plug the lamp in and turn it on to see if it works.
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1
Tips & Warnings
If your CFL sticks up too high, you could mount it horizontal instead of vertical. You will need to find or make a bracket that will fit, plus a threaded rod nipple and two extra nuts. Simply mount the bracket to the lamp and then mount the new socket to the bracket.
