How to Change Your Pool Lights

Swimming pool lights not only add an aesthetic quality to your pool but also provide a level of safety. Here at 1st Direct Pools, we have a range of lighting systems in stock that you can install in your pool.

Types of Pool Lights

There are two main types of pool lights:

  • Halogen
  • LED

LED Pool Lights

LED lighting is one of the more popular choices among pool owners because LED lights can be used for both inground and above-ground pools. They are energy-efficient and available in various colors. With their overall brightness, you may only need a few LED lights to illuminate your pool.

Halogen Pool Lights

Similar to LED lights, halogen pool lights can be used for both above-ground and inground pools. They are useful for long periods of lighting and are easier to install and replace compared to LED lights. However, they are only available in one standard color, unlike LED lights that can alternate colors.

How to Change a Pool Light

Before you begin installing lights in your pool, you may want to decide how many you need. It is recommended to have one light for every 20 square meters of water surface. For particularly deep pools, one light is recommended for every 25 cubic meters.

What You Need to Change a Pool Light

After determining which pool light is compatible with your pool, make sure you have everything ready. To change a pool light, you will need:

  • Replacement bulb
  • Replacement lens gasket
  • Phillips and flathead screwdriver
  • Multimeter
  • Dry towels

If you are not comfortable changing a pool light, there is no reason why you can’t call a professional to do it for you.

Step 1: Turn Off the Power

Safety is the utmost priority; it is common knowledge that water and electricity do not mix. The power must be turned off because you will be touching wires while being in the water. Ensure that there is absolutely no power before you do anything.

You can drain some water from the pool, which will make it easier to reach and change the bulb. However, you still need to make sure that the power is turned off. Once you’re done, the pool should be refilled, and the water chemistry balanced.

Step 2: Remove the Pilton Screw

The Pilton screw is on top of the light. Depending on the light, the type of screw may vary, which means you will need to use either a flathead or Phillips screwdriver.

Step 3: Remove the Fixture

Remember not to touch the wires with your bare hands. After the screw is removed, slowly remove the light from the fixture. It may require some wiggling. You should have enough wire to place it on the deck. Place the lens on a towel to prevent scratching.

Step 4: Test the Wiring

As mentioned above, do not touch the wires with your bare hands. Before doing anything else, test the wires with a multimeter to ensure that there is no electricity passing through. If there is electricity, you will need to investigate which power source needs to be turned off before proceeding. Double-check with the multimeter to confirm that it is safe to proceed.

Step 5: Disassemble the Fixture

Remove any screws or clips that hold the fixture together. Separate the lens, lens gasket, and retaining ring to access the pool light bulb. If the light has weathered over time, be careful not to remove it above the water to prevent any debris from falling into the water. Wipe away any dirt or debris with a dry towel. If the fixture is too weathered, it should be replaced.

Step 6: Remove the Bulb

Grip the bulb with a towel and unscrew it slowly until it is completely loosened. Dry the bulb with the towel and clean the mating surface.

Step 7: Install the New Bulb

Once the mating surface is thoroughly cleaned, carefully screw in the new bulb. Make sure it is securely in place, but do not tighten it too much as it risks breaking the bulb. Once the bulb is securely in place, install the lens gasket around the lens and reassemble the fixture.

Step 8: Test the Pool Light

Before reinstalling the fixture into the pool wall, turn the power on and make sure the light turns on. This should be done quickly, as pool lights are not designed to operate outside the water for extended periods. Once you have confirmed the light is working, turn off the power again – don’t forget to double-check.

Step 9: Check for Leaks

Lower the fixture into the water and check for any escaping air, especially around the sealed outer edges. If there are air bubbles present, the fixture needs to be disassembled. Remove it from the water, dry the inside of the fixture, and reassemble it outside the water. Place the fixture back into the pool and check again for any air bubbles. Repeat the process until the fixture is no longer leaking.

Step 10: Install the Light

Push any excess wires back into the pool wall and gently position the fixture in place. Ensure that the screw holes of the fixture align with the holes in the pool wall so that you can fasten the fixture securely.

Step 11: Turn on the Power

Turn the power back on and double-check if the light is working. Once you are sure the light is in working condition, you can sit back and relax after a job well done.

For more advice and information on swimming pools, don’t hesitate to contact our staff or browse through our blog.

The Ultimate Beginner

FAQ’s

1. Should I call a professional to change my pool lights?

If you are not comfortable changing a pool light, it is best to call a professional to do the job on your behalf. This will ensure that the work is done properly and safely.

2. Which type of pool light is the best choice?

Both LED and halogen lights are good choices for pools. LED lights are highly energy-efficient and available in different colors, while halogen lights are easier to install and replace. It depends on your personal preferences.

3. How many lights do I need for my pool?

It depends on the size of your pool. A general guideline is one light for every 20 square meters of water surface. For deeper pools, one light is recommended for every 25 cubic meters.

4. Can I replace the bulbs of my pool lights myself?

Yes, you can replace the bulbs of your pool lights yourself if you are comfortable doing so. Just make sure you have the appropriate tools and take safety precautions.

5. How can I ensure that my pool light doesn’t leak?

If you have replaced the pool light and it is leaking, you need to disassemble the fixture, dry the inside, and reassemble it outside the water. Repeat the process until the light no longer leaks.

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