Replacing a lamp socket is a relatively simple project that most homeowners can tackle themselves. The socket is the part of the lamp that you screw the lightbulb into. Over time, sockets can wear out or break, requiring replacement. Knowing when and how to replace a lamp socket can save you the cost of hiring an electrician for a basic repair.
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When Should You Replace a Lamp Socket?
There are a few signs that indicate it’s time to replace your lamp socket:
- The socket is cracked or broken. Cracks or breaks in the socket can expose wires and pose a shock or fire hazard.
- The socket Doesn’t grip the lightbulb. If lightbulbs fall out of the socket easily, the contacts inside are likely worn out.
- You see scorch marks or melting. Discoloration or melting plastic signals excess heat that could lead to a fire.
- The light flickers. Flickering when a bulb is screwed in could mean the socket connections are loose or corroded.
- The switch doesn’t work. If the inline switch no longer turns the lamp off and on, the socket could be faulty.
- You feel a shock. Any sensation of electrical current could indicate damaged insulation or exposed wires.
If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s best to preemptively replace the lamp socket before a more serious problem occurs.
How to Replace a Lamp Socket
Replacing a lamp socket is a basic wiring project that can be accomplished in just a few steps:
Turn Off Power and Unplug the Lamp
Before doing any electrical work, always make sure the power source is disconnected. Turn off the wall switch that controls the lamp and unplug it if possible. This prevents accidentally touching live wires while you work.
Remove the Lamp Parts
Take apart the lamp by removing the lightbulb, lampshade, and any other attached pieces. This gives you access to the socket at the base of the fixture.
Unscrew the Mounting Screws
There are typically two screws that hold the socket in place. Unscrew them with a screwdriver and remove the old socket.
Disconnect the Wires
There will likely be two wires attached to screw terminals on the sides of the socket. Carefully detach the wires one at a time to avoid confusion later.
Attach the Wires to the New Socket
Connect the wires to the matching terminals on the replacement socket. Often the terminals are color-coded or labeled to make this easier. Secure the wires by tightening the screws.
Mount the New Socket
Insert the new socket into the lamp base and use the mounting screws to secure it in the same position as the old one.
Reassemble the Lamp
Screw in a lightbulb, replace the lampshade and other parts, and plug the lamp back in. Turn on the power to test that the new socket is working properly.
Tips for Replacing a Lamp Socket
Here are a few helpful pointers to keep in mind for this repair project:
- Take photos of the wiring before disconnecting anything to use as a reference for reassembly.
- Wrap electrical tape around wire nut connections for a more secure fit.
- Purchase a replacement socket with the same style base that fits into the existing lamp.
- Check that the new socket is rated for the wattage of bulb you want to use.
- Ensure the wires are fully inserted into the socket terminals before tightening the screws.
Safety Precautions
Any electrical work has inherent hazards, so be sure to follow these safety tips:
- Turn the power off at the circuit breaker panel before accessing any wiring.
- Test that the power is off by touching the lamp wires together. If you see a spark, the circuit is still live.
- Use insulated tools and gloves designed for electrical work.
- Connect each wire to the matching hot or neutral terminal.
- Don’t overload outlets with wattage greater than the circuit capacity.
- Install lamps and sockets away from flammable window treatments or furniture.
Calling in a professional electrician is recommended if you are ever unsure about tackle electrical repairs safely. However, a basic lamp socket replacement is within the abilities of many DIYers.
Lamp Socket Types
There are a few common varieties of lamp sockets to be aware of:
Edison Screw
This standard light bulb socket has threads inside that bulbs screw into. It comes in E26 and E27 sizes (the diameter of the threads in millimeters) with variations to accommodate different bulb bases.
Prong or Pin Sockets
Two metal prongs hold the bulb in place in these popular sockets. Some have a push-in fitting while others use a twist-lock mechanism.
GU24
Designed for CFL and LED bulbs, these have a twist-lock fitting with two prongs close together. GU24 sockets allow for greater contact with the new compact bulb designs.
Candelabra Bases
Used in chandeliers, sconces, and other decorative fixtures, these smaller E12 sockets fit candelabra bulbs with pointed tips.
Mogul
With E39 bases, mogul sockets are larger to accommodate high-wattage bulbs. They are often found in track lights, spotlights, and exterior lamps.
Choosing a Replacement Socket
When selecting a new socket, choose one made for your specific lighting application. Consider factors like:
- Socket mounting – Does it fit the lamp hardware and attach the same way as the old socket?
- Socket shape and size – Is it made for standard or candelabra bulbs?
- Lightbulb base – Does it accept bulbs with Edison screw, pin, or other bases?
- Wattage rating – Is it rated for the wattage you need?
- Voltage – Does it match the lamp’s voltage?
- Any required approvals – Does it meet safety standards from organizations like UL or ETL?
Refer to the old socket or lamp markings as a guide if you need to match specifications. Hardware stores also have knowledgeable staff that can assist you in choosing the correct replacement.
DIY Lamp Socket Wiring
If the existing lamp wires won’t reach the new socket, you may need to extend them. This involves some rewiring but can be done by following a few steps:
Obtain Wire
Purchase enough 18-gauge lamp wire to reach between the socket and supply wires. Cloth-covered wire works well to resist fraying.
Prep the Wires
Strip away 3/4″ of insulation from the ends of the existing wires and the ends of the new wire using wire strippers.
Splice the Wires
Connect matching wires together using wire nuts. Twist each nut over the wires clockwise until tight.
Add Wire Connectors
For a stronger connection, crimp metal connectors over the wire nut splices using pliers.
Secure the Wires
Wrap electrical tape around each connector and exposed wires so no copper shows. This prevents sparks or shorts.
With the extended wiring complete, just connect the other end of the new wire to the lamp socket as normal. Make sure no bare wire is exposed outside of the socket.
Troubleshooting Lamp Socket Problems
If you replace a lamp socket and it still doesn’t work, here are some troubleshooting tips:
- Check that the bulb is good – Try a known working bulb.
- Verify the wiring connections – Make sure all wires are making solid contact and attached to the correct terminal.
- Test the power supply – Determine if power is reaching the socket at all using a multimeter or by touching the wires (with the power off).
- Examine the switch – Bypass any in-line switch to see if the socket works without it.
- Look for reversed polarity – If wires are connected to the wrong terminals, the socket won’t work.
- Evaluate lightbulb fit – Make sure the bulb base and socket are compatible types.
Tracing the electrical path starting from the wall switch can reveal any broken connections in the circuit. Contact a licensed electrician if the issue persists.
Conclusion
Replacing a worn out or broken lamp socket is well within the DIY abilities of most homeowners. By following safe electrical practices and using the proper socket for the lamp, you can restore functionality and continue lighting up your space. Paying attention to warning signs like flickering or shocks allows you to proactively replace sockets before they cause larger issues down the line. With a little electrical know-how and diligence, this simple repair will keep your lamps shining bright.