How to change a light bulb
Quick answer: Switch the light off at the switch (and let the bulb cool), use a stable step ladder, twist the old bulb out and fit the new bulb with the same cap type. Choose LED, in a warm white colour, and match the brightness in lumens, not watts.
Changing a light bulb is simple once you know which type to buy. The two things that catch people out are the cap (the fitting at the end of the bulb) and getting up to the ceiling safely.
If you are older, unsteady or just do not like heights, this is exactly the sort of small job that is worth asking someone to do.
What you will need
- The right replacement bulb: take the old one to the shop to match it
- A sturdy step ladder (not a chair or a table)
- A dry cloth or gloves for a hot or broken bulb
- A second person to steady the ladder, if possible
Step by step
Switch it off and let it cool
Turn the light off at the wall switch. If it was on, wait a few minutes: halogen and older bulbs get very hot.
Check what you need
Look at the old bulb. A bayonet cap (B22 or B15) has two small pins and pushes in and twists. A screw cap (E27 or E14) screws in. Spotlights in the ceiling are often GU10 (two pins, push and twist) or GU5.3.
Set up the ladder
Put the step ladder on a firm, flat floor, fully open with the locking bar down. Do not stand on the top step. Keep three points of contact (two hands and a foot) and do not overreach.
Take the old bulb out
Hold it with a dry cloth or glove. For a bayonet, push up gently and twist anticlockwise. For a screw cap, twist anticlockwise. For a GU10, push up and turn anticlockwise a little. For a recessed one, you may need to pull or twist the trim.
Fit the new bulb
Put it in the same way: push and twist for bayonet and GU10, screw clockwise until snug for screw caps. Do not overtighten.
Test it
Come down the ladder, switch on and check. If it does not work, check the bulb is seated properly, then try the bulb in another light to see if it is a dud.
Tips
- Buy LED bulbs: they use a fraction of the electricity and last years. Choose by lumens (brightness): roughly 800 lumens replaces an old 60 watt bulb.
- For living rooms and bedrooms choose 'warm white' (about 2700K). 'Cool white' is bright and bluish, better for a garage or workshop.
- If the light is on a dimmer, buy a bulb marked 'dimmable', or the bulb may flicker or buzz.
Stop and get help if
- The bulb is stuck, broken in the socket or the fitting is loose or scorched. Do not dig around in a live socket: switch off at the consumer unit and ask a qualified electrician.
- A new bulb flickers, buzzes or blows repeatedly. This can be a dimmer problem or a wiring fault.
- You smell burning or the fitting is discoloured.
- The light is on a high stair well or ceiling and you do not have safe access. Ask for help.
Would you rather we did it?
We cover Sandwich and East Kent. Send us a quick message on WhatsApp, ideally with a photo, and we will come back with a price and a day.
Common questions
How do I know which bulb I need?
Look at the old bulb: the cap type and shape are often printed on the bulb or the base. Or take it to a shop. The packaging also shows the cap type, such as B22, E27, E14 or GU10.
Can I use an LED bulb in any fitting?
Usually yes, if the cap matches and the fitting is not enclosed with no airflow. Check the packaging, and use dimmable bulbs on dimmers.
What do I do with a broken bulb?
Switch the light off at the wall switch and at the consumer unit before anything else, let it cool, and wear gloves and eye protection. If any glass or the base is left in the socket and you are not sure how to deal with it safely, call an electrician.
More guides
Last reviewed 17 October 2026. This guide is general information for UK homes and is not a substitute for the manufacturer's instructions. If the job involves gas, mains wiring, asbestos, structural work or working at height, or you are unsure, ask a suitably qualified person.