How to Change a Inground Pool Light Bulb

Underwater pool lights should not be operated when not submerged in water

Underwater lights in most swimming pools typically last around 1,000 hours before requiring replacement. Note that underwater pool lights are designed specifically to operate underwater and will overheat very quickly if operated when out of water, so use caution when operating or changing the bulbs. Most pool lights sit in a small niche with a cord behind the niche to allow the fixture to be taken out of the water for repairs or replacement. Always turn off the power at the breaker and at any other switches that bring power to or from the pool before attempting to change an underwater pool light.

Things You'll Need

• Power supply
• Screwdriver
• Underwater light bulb
• Lens gasket

Instructions

1. Pull out the pool light niche and bring it up to the side of the pool.

2. Use a flathead screwdriver to remove the screw located at the top of the light and then pull the fixture out of the niche. Many niches have a small tab at the bottom that can be pushed on to help release the fixture.

3. Remove the screws around the perimeter of the light or the clamp on the fixture, depending upon the type of light.

4. Gently remove the glass lens from the fixture and place on a soft surface, such as a towel.

5. Twist the bulb in a counterclockwise motion to remove the bulb from the fixture.

6. Wipe the interior of the fixture with a clean, dry cloth. Insert and tighten a new bulb.

7. Turn the power on for a second or two to verify the light works and then turn it back off.

8. Place a new lens gasket (the rubber gasket around the lens) onto the fixture. Lens gaskets can be purchased at pool supply stores. Replace and gently tighten the lens on to the fixture.

9. Replace and tighten any screws or clamps firmly. Set the light underwater and check for air leaks, which will look like a stream of bubbles. If a leak is seen, pull the fixture back out of the water and re-tighten all of the screws or clamps. Test again until there is no leaking.

10. Coil the cord around the back of the fixture and line up the bottom tab on the fixture with the tab receiver on the niche. Push the fixture back into the niche and screw back in the top screw on the niche. Test again and then push the niche back into place underwater when finished. Restore power to the pool when ready.

References

• Swimming Pool Parts: Underwater Lighting Repair and Bulb Replacement