How to Change a Recessed Light Bulb in 6 Steps

From flickering lights to a total blackout, broken light bulbs can cast a shadow on your space. Fortunately, changing a recessed light bulb is a straightforward DIY task. We’ll walk you through the steps to change recessed light bulbs with a cover and housing as well as swapping out simple screw-in bulbs so you can sort out any recessed light bulb repair on your own.

Preparing to Change a Recessed Light Bulb

No matter what type of recessed light you’re working with, follow these steps before you start changing the light bulb.

1. Choose the Right Light Bulb

When you’re replacing a recessed light bulb, it’s best to get the same type and wattage as the old one. In some cases, you may be able to swap out different types of light bulbs—for example, changing incandescent bulbs to energy-efficient LEDs; however, it’s important to never exceed the maximum wattage for your light fixture.

If you’re not sure what type of light bulb or wattage to use, wait until you’ve removed the old bulb, then check the base of the bulb for the type and wattage.

2. Turn Off the Power

Whenever you’re working around electricity, it’s essential to turn off the power before you get started. Head to your breaker box, locate the switch for your recessed light fixture, and turn it off. 

3. Wait for the Bulb to Cool

Once you’ve turned off the power, wait at least 10 minutes to ensure the light bulb is cool before you remove it. 

4. Use Safety Equipment

Changing a recessed light bulb is fairly simple and safe, but some basic safety gear can make it more comfortable. You may want to pick up a pair of gloves, goggles, and a dust mask to prevent any debris from bothering you while you work.

How to Change a Recessed LED Light Bulb With a Cover

Recessed lighting in living rooms and other decorated spaces often includes a cover and trim to make it more stylish. If you’re changing a light bulb inside a recessed light that has a cover and trim, follow these steps to safely remove it and replace the bulb.

1. Lower the Recessed Light Housing

Position your ladder so you can easily reach the light fixture, then use your fingers to gently loosen the housing from the ceiling. You should be able to wiggle it so it comes down a few inches.

If your light fixture includes a painted trim, you can run a utility knife around the outside to loosen the housing. This is where the dust mask and goggles come in handy to protect against your eyes, nose, and mouth from loose paint flakes.

2. Unscrew the Housing

Rotate your recessed light while applying gentle downward pressure to remove it from the ceiling. Some recessed lights may also have prongs to hold them in place—you can squeeze these to release the housing.

Make sure the light bulb is secure while you’re removing the housing, so you don’t have to deal with broken glass if it falls out.

3. Disconnect the Old Light Bulb

Once you’ve removed the housing, you’ll be able to access the cord in the ceiling. Disconnect the old light bulb cord from the socket, then unscrew the bulb from the housing. Take note of how the cord connects to the socket, so you can follow this process in reverse with the new bulb.

If your area has an electronics recycling program or center, dispose of your old light bulb there.

4. Connect the New Bulb

Screw your new light bulb into the housing, then connect the cord to the ceiling socket. Tuck the extra cord inside the ceiling, so it’s out of the way.

5. Replace the Housing

Now that you’ve installed the new bulb, replace the light’s housing. If it twists into the ceiling, turn while applying gentle upward pressure. If the housing has prongs, squeeze them while you push the housing in, then release so they snap into place.

6. Turn On the Power 

Once the housing is back in place, you’re ready to flip your breaker switch back on and light up the room!

How to Change a Screw-In Recessed Light Bulb

If your recessed light doesn’t have any housing, changing the bulb is similar to most other light fixtures. Here are the basic steps:

1. Unscrew the Old Bulb

Depending on the type of light bulb in your recessed fixture, the light will either be round or sit flush with the can. Round bulbs are generally easy to unscrew—hold gently but firmly and twist counter-clockwise. A pair of gloves can help you get a better grip.

If the lamp sits flush, press your fingertips firmly against the surface while you twist. You can also use a suction cup to create a handle or even some strong tape in a pinch. Turn counter-clockwise, and keep your grip tight so it doesn’t fall. 

2. Screw in the New Bulb

Replace the old bulb with one that matches the wattage or one that’s slightly lower. Light bulbs are becoming more efficient, so you can usually find a good fit that draws less energy and saves you money.

Turn the new bulb clockwise to tighten it into the socket. Once you’re done, flip the power back on and enjoy your new light. 

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

In most cases, changing a recessed light bulb is a quick and easy DIY project. If you have a screw-in bulb, it should only take a few minutes. Even when you need to remove the housing, it’s still manageable to tackle this task on your own. 

You may want to bring in a professional light bulb changing service near you if you have high ceilings that are hard to reach or if you want to make other changes, like installing a new recessed light. If you’ve changed the bulb in your recessed light and you still find that it’s flickering or not working properly, it’s also a good idea to call in a local light fixture company near you to tackle any electrical repairs.