Replacing a swimming pool light appears deceptively easy. There are only three things that can be repaired on a light — the bulb, the seal and the lens. Generally, if the light has been installed correctly, it is easy to unscrew the can (the container the light is in) and pull up to the deck for repair. And that’s where things begin to go wrong. You really need to be an expert at replacing a light because it is extremely tricky getting it back together without leaking. Generally, I have clients who buy the parts, make the fix and then end up having to do it all over again in 90 days because they didn’t get the can sealed properly
Most swimming pools use incandescent bulbs, 400-500 watt. The lifespan of the bulb really depends on use, but on average, if you use it 2-3 times a month for a couple of hours each time, the bulb will last 3-5 years.
Lately, there have been plenty of innovations in the lighting industry that have also come over to the swimming pool industry. The new LED lights fit the same fixture as the incandescent bulbs, but they have cool colors, programmed sequences, and other fun accessories. These seem to be working fairly well for our customers.
Another new alternative are the fiber optic lights. Pool People does not recommend fiber optics around your swimming pool. They look really cool and have lots of features, but they don’t hold up well. In our experience, they are expensive to repair, difficult to work on, and are broken more often than they work.
If you have questions about replacing your pool light, call or come into Pool People in Glendale, Arizona. We’ll be happy to answer all your questions. Pool People provides regular pool and spa cleaning, pool and spa maintenance, pool remodeling, pool and spa repairs, as well as tile cleaning for residents of the Northwest Valley in Phoenix. We also have a fully stocked pool store at 5830 W. Thunderbird Rd., Suite B-6, Glendale, AZ.