How to Remove a Light Bulb From a Turning Socket

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Things You'll Need

  • Safety goggles

  • Pliers

  • Needle-nose pliers

Although we can't physically sense them, vibrations in our homes cause some things to loosen up over time. Light bulb sockets can loosen because of the vibrations, and when it comes time to change that light bulb, the socket turns with the bulb and your bulb gets stuck in the socket. You can either let the old bulb sit in the socket or make an effort to remove the light bulb from the turning socket. It really isn't all that hard--it is just a frustrating situation because it should never take both hands and several tools just to change a light bulb.

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Step 1

Turn the electrical power off to the socket by turning off the breaker at the main electrical panel box.

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Step 2

Hold the socket with a pair of pliers on the exterior of the socket. If you don't have room for a regular pair of pliers, use a pair of needle-nose pliers and grasp the top edge of the socket.

Step 3

Turn the light bulb counterclockwise while holding the socket stationary with the pliers. Remove the bulb.

Warning

Always turn off the electricity to the area your are working in to avoid electrical shock.

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