How to Fix a Bathroom Light

Increase the light in your bathroom.

You grumble about that tired old bathroom fixture each time you put on your mascara in the mirror. You squint and wonder why there is so much light glaring down on you as you shave. Do something about it. Install a new fixture to diffuse the light in your bathroom and improve your bathroom's decor. Update the bathrooms look while you improve function.

Things You'll Need

• Lightbulb
• Screwdriver
• Tape
• New bathroom fixture

Instructions

1. Turn off the bathroom light at least a half-hour before you change fixtures. Prevent burns to your palm from a hot lightbulb or fixture.

2. Find the circuit breaker box. Determine which circuit applies to the bathroom. Switch it off.

3. Examine the light fixture. Locate the screws. Use a screwdriver to remove all screws. Group them together and put aside.

4. Remove fixture carefully as most are glass and break easily. Set the fixture aside as you may need it for a different location. Tape screws inside the fixture.

5. Examine the new fixture. Count screws to make sure you have them all. Study the fixture for location of the holes of the screw.

6. Place the new light fixture in the same location. Line up the new fixture so the holes for the screws match the location of the existing ones. Insert the screws by hand. Use screwdriver to tighten.

7. Return to circuit breaker and flip on bathroom circuit. Check that light works by turning on bathroom switch.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a new fixture with the same amount of screw holes for easy installation.

• Use energy-efficient bulbs in all fixtures.

• Wear goggles if you have them.

• Be careful of breaking the fixture while moving.

References

• This Old House: A Lesson in Bathroom Lighting
• Home Tips: How to Install a Vanity Light