Incandescent bulb is stuck in my ceiling receptacle.?

Question

The receptacle is recessed and tight for my hand to get a good grip on the bulb. The socket turns with the bulb when I try to get it out.

Answer 1

OK i read people telling you to use a potato ....no... that's just messy ... simple... turn the power off to the light take a spoon and put duct tape around it (backward sticky side out) use the spoon to turn the bulb. if its recessed ... make sure the spoon is sturdy (not plastic) if you use a potato you have to turn the power off at the breaker if you do it this way you just have to turn the power off at the switch..... if the bulb is broken the turn off the power off at the breaker and use needle nose pliers to grab the remaining base and turn to release it. boom your done.

Answer 2

First, turn off the power to that outlet. Then completely cover the area surrounding the light and socket with a heavy cloth or plastic with a little "give" in it. Use duct tape to hold the cover in place. Next, gently hit the bulb in order to break it with the glass falling into the secured cover. Carefully remove the glass filled cover. Careful of shards remaining and find something the will wedge the socket in place so it will not rotate with the bulb,(wadded up duct tape maybe) when you feel it's stable, peel an elongated potato to assist in turning the remaining bulb. Or you may try pliers or you may be able to turn the bulb wearing thick gloves. At least you will have better access to the problem. Just be careful of sharp glass and turn off the power.

Answer 3

An example of the dysfunctionality of bad design.

You are going to need some sort of a bulb grabber that you can clamp around trhe bulb while you hold the base with a pair of pliers.

Answer 4

You may have to break the bulb and use needle-nose pliers. One pair of pliers to hold the socket in place and the other ones to twist the metal part of the bulb out of there. Make sure power is off obviously.

Answer 5

Hmmm turn off pwer and take it completely off the wall or ceiling. then you will be able to work on it better. Sounds like your trying to get the bulb out without taking off the globe?

Answer 6

First turn off the power. If the light is recessed, then you may be able to pull the "can" down and access the bulb and socket that way.

Answer 7

Turn off the electric to that fixture. Then take a potato and cut it to fit inside the socket of the fixture; it should turn to take it out. push the potato in very hard to get a grip