How to Replace a Light Socket With a Ceramic Insulator

Older fixtures and lamps often have ceramic sockets.

Old, ungrounded light fixtures were frequently made with ceramic- or porcelain-insulated light sockets. These sockets are typically very long lived and may never need replacing, but the fixtures they are attached to are often irreplaceable; when one does go bad, replacing the socket instead of the fixture may be preferable. The major concern with this project is ensuring the electric current has been disconnected before attempting the repair. For lamps, simply unplug them. For built-in fixtures, locate and turn off the breaker before beginning.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Replacement socket

Instructions

1. Remove the bulb from the socket and shine a flashlight into the bottom of the socket to locate the mounting screw. These are typically located in the center and have small, slotted heads. There may be two. Use a screwdriver to loosen and remove these screws.

2. Pull the socket free from the lamp or fixture to expose the wires underneath. They will be attached to the bottom of the socket with two screws. Loosen the screws and pull the socket away from the wires. Take the old socket to a local hardware store for comparison and select a socket of the same size, with the same screw hole pattern.

3. Attach the wires to the bottom of the new socket. Wrap one wire around each of the two screws on the underside of the socket. Tighten the screws by turning them clockwise with the screwdriver.

4. Fit the new socket into position in the lamp or fixture. Use a screwdriver to thread and tighten the mounting screws in the bottom of the socket. Replace the bulb and plug in the lamp or restore the power to test the new socket.

References

• "Fix it in a Flash: 25 Common Home Repairs and Improvements"; Jodi Marks; Steve Schultz; 2009