If your lamp has a non-functioning socket, don’t get rid of the entire piece. A simple swap out is all it takes to get your lamp working again. And this is as true for newer sockets as it is for a classic built around Edison’s time.
In our guide, we’ll explain how to replace a lamp socket, step-by-step.
The Tools You’ll Need
Before we get started on replacing a lamp socket, be sure to check your toolbox for the essentials. You can hit up the hardware store for anything missing. You’ll need:
- A screwdriver,
- Wire strippers,
- Electrical tape, and
- A new lamp socket.
The Process for Replacing a Lamp Socket
Step 1: Unplug the Lamp
This one is sort of a no-brainer, but it’s important to state nonetheless. You should not work on any electrical element, including a lamp, if it is plugged in. Ensuring you’re not connected to power will help avoid an electrical shock.
Step 2: Disconnect the Old Socket from the Lamp
It’s time to remove the light bulb from the old lamp and prepare the socket for removal.
You may have to remove any screws or clips holding the old socket in place. This is where the screwdriver comes into play. Once removed, you can then slide the socket out from the lamp neck.
However, it won’t be able to come out completely. This is because the socket is still wired to the lamp. After you’ve pulled the socket, use your phone to take a picture of the wires and how they connect to the socket. There will likely be one wire connected to the brass screw and another connected to the silver screw.
This photo will come in handy later when it comes time to rewire the lamp.
Step 3: Remove the Wires
Use your screwdriver to loosen the two screws holding your wires in place. They may be wrapped tightly around the screws, so some elbow grease may be needed here.
Once free, you can discard your old socket.
As a side note, there will be one additional wire if your lamp is a 3-way. This will be connected to a second brass screw.
Step 4: Connect Your New Socket
If your wires aren’t long enough, use your wire strippers to cut the top ends of the wires. You can then expose more of the wire from its sheath.
You can then connect the two wires to each of the corresponding screws on the bottom of your new socket. Wrap them tightly around the new socket's screws. Remember to match it to the photo you took earlier. In short:
- The hot wire should be connected to the brass screw.
- The neutral wire should be connected to the silver screw.
- The additional wire should be connected to the second brass screw if replacing a 3-way lamp socket.
Once your wires are wrapped, double-check to ensure the wires aren’t touching. If they are, use some electrical tape wrapped around each wire for safety.
Step 5: Insert Socket
You can now insert the new socket into your lamp. Secure with the necessary clips and/or screws.
Step 6: Test
It’s time to check your work. Screw a lightbulb into your socket, plug in the lamp, and turn it on. If you have steady light, congrats! If it doesn’t turn on, you may need to unplug, disassemble, and check your wire connections.
Find Great Replacement Lamp Sockets
We told you it would be easy, didn’t we? Now that you know how to do it, discover great and reliable lamp sockets to fit your lamp. Nostalgic Bulbs has everything you need. Shop for Porcelain Lamp Sockets Now!