Homeowners with high ceilings in their homes know the advantages they bring; such ceilings make rooms seem taller and brighter while providing cozier living environments and grander aesthetics.
Changing a lightbulb in a high ceiling can be daunting, but there are a few strategies you can employ to make it simpler.
Get a Ladder
When changing light bulbs in high ceilings, you must take all necessary precautions for your safety. This means acquiring an adequate ladder, turning off the circuit breaker for that light fixture, and using tools like telescoping poles with bulb-changing attachments as needed.
Before changing a bulb, ensure to thoroughly clean the area around its fixture in order to eliminate dust or debris that might obstruct the installation of your new lightbulb and prevent potential damage. Doing this will make replacing it simpler while protecting against potential problems that might occur from improper installation of new bulbs.
Step Two: Assemble Your Equipment By gathering all the tools and supplies that will be necessary. This may include a ladder, drop cloth/tarp to protect the floor below you, replacement bulbs that fit your fixture size/type as well as gloves/goggles to keep yourself safe during this process, proper storage after finishing each job, and proper disposal when all is said and done.
Get a Light Bulb Changing Pole
Replacing lightbulbs in high ceilings can be hazardous and time-consuming, which is why hiring professional services for this task may be best. But this can get costly very quickly.
Light bulb changing poles provide homeowners with an efficient means of switching out lights in high ceilings without using ladders. These handy products consist of long sticks with grippers at their ends to allow you to grab old bulbs easily before unscrewing them from their sockets.
These devices feature multiple attachments for different kinds of bulbs, including circular (BR and MR). Some even feature telescoping features to extend further up into the air to reach higher light fixtures. You can find similar devices at most hardware stores or online; when using one, make sure it has bulbs of a similar shape as your old bulb to prevent its collar from breaking off when installing it back into its socket.
Get a Light Bulb
As every homeowner will need to do at some point, changing a lightbulb can be challenging when working with high ceilings. A step stool might not work effectively, and trying to balance on chairs could prove dangerous.
As luck would have it, there are tools available that can assist in changing a light bulb in a high ceiling. One such tool is known as the Light Bulb Changing Pole: this long stick features an ergonomic gripper on its end that enables users to encase the bulb and easily unscrew it.
Another option is using a pin-shaped attachment that you can insert into the socket to disconnect it safely. Otherwise, professional electricians are available and equipped to take on this job for you; they have all of the equipment and know exactly how to get the job done safely while also suggesting other upgrades like using longer-lasting LED bulbs.
Get a New Bulb
If you are upgrading recessed lighting bulbs with a high ceiling, be sure to purchase bulbs with the appropriate wattage. It is essential that any bulbs larger than required don’t exceed what your fixtures can handle and cause a fire risk; check with either your original bulb box for guidance or consult a licensed electrician before proceeding with the installation.
If your fixture features a collar that secures its housing, pry it loose with a putty knife or flathead screwdriver. However, sometimes tight collars might require breaking seals instead.
Switching lightbulbs in a high ceiling may seem daunting, but with the appropriate tools, it can actually be quite straightforward. Be sure to work safely and always use caution while working. For any additional queries or concerns regarding electrical needs, contact your local home inspection team and arrange an appointment.
Conclusion
When changing a light bulb in a high ceiling, safety measures, and appropriate tools are essential. Utilizing safe and stable equipment like a sturdy ladder or an extended tool specifically designed for high ceilings ensures a secure reach. Moreover, enlisting the help of a second person for stability and guidance adds an extra layer of safety. Prioritizing caution, using the right tools, and possibly considering longer-lasting or easily accessible bulbs can make this task safer and more manageable. With the right approach and safety measures in place, changing a light bulb in a high ceiling becomes a straightforward and secure process.