How To Replace Under Cabinet Puck Light Bulbs

Identifying the Bulb Type

Replacing under cabinet puck lights is a simple task, but it’s important to know what type of bulb you have before you begin. There are three main types of under cabinet puck lights: LED, halogen, and incandescent. Each type has its own unique features, advantages, and disadvantages.

Types of Under Cabinet Puck Lights

• LED (Light Emitting Diode): LED puck lights are the most energy-efficient option and have a longer lifespan than other types of bulbs. They produce a bright, white light that is ideal for kitchens and other areas where clear visibility is essential. They are also known for their durability and resistance to vibration.
• Halogen: Halogen puck lights offer a brighter and warmer light than LED bulbs, making them a popular choice for creating a cozy atmosphere. However, they consume more energy and have a shorter lifespan than LED bulbs.
• Incandescent: Incandescent puck lights are the traditional type of bulb and are known for their affordability. However, they consume the most energy and have the shortest lifespan of all three types. They also produce a lot of heat, which can be a safety concern.

Comparison of Puck Light Types

Feature	LED	Halogen	Incandescent
Energy Efficiency	Highest	Medium	Lowest
Lifespan	Longest	Medium	Shortest
Light Output	Bright, White	Brighter, Warmer	Dim, Yellowish
Heat Output	Low	Medium	High
Cost	Higher	Medium	Lowest

Replacing the Bulb: How To Replace Under Cabinet Puck Light Bulbs

Now that you’ve identified the type of bulb your puck light fixture uses, it’s time to replace the old bulb with a new one. This process is straightforward and can be done with a few simple steps.

Removing the Old Bulb

Before you can install the new bulb, you’ll need to remove the old one. This process involves a few steps:

• Turn off the power to the puck light fixture. This is crucial for safety and to prevent electrical shock. You can do this by flipping the corresponding switch on your circuit breaker panel or by unplugging the fixture if it’s connected to an outlet.
• Allow the bulb to cool down completely before handling it. This is especially important if the bulb is a halogen bulb, as they can get very hot during operation.
• Carefully remove the old bulb from the fixture. Depending on the type of puck light, you may need to twist the bulb counter-clockwise to loosen it or simply pull it straight out.

Installing the New Bulb, How to replace under cabinet puck light bulbs

Once the old bulb is removed, you can install the new one. This process is similar to removing the old bulb:

• Align the new bulb with the socket in the fixture. Ensure the prongs on the bulb match the contacts in the socket.
• Gently insert the new bulb into the socket. If the bulb has a twist-and-lock mechanism, turn it clockwise until it’s securely in place.
• Turn the power back on to the puck light fixture and check if the new bulb is working correctly.

Safety Precautions

When handling and replacing under cabinet puck light bulbs, it’s essential to follow some safety precautions:

• Always turn off the power to the fixture before working on it. This is the most important safety precaution to prevent electrical shock.
• Wear gloves when handling bulbs, especially halogen bulbs, as they can get very hot.
• Avoid touching the bulb’s glass, as this can cause smudges or fingerprints that can affect the bulb’s performance.
• Dispose of old bulbs properly. Check with your local recycling center for information on how to dispose of used bulbs safely.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the proper tools and knowledge, replacing under cabinet puck light bulbs can sometimes present challenges. Understanding common issues and their solutions can save you time and frustration.

Identifying Common Problems

Identifying the source of the problem is crucial for a successful fix. Here are some common issues you might encounter:

• Flickering: This could indicate a loose connection, a faulty bulb, or a problem with the fixture’s wiring.
• Dimming: Dimming lights often point to a failing bulb, a loose connection, or a problem with the fixture’s voltage.
• Complete Failure: A completely dead light can result from a burned-out bulb, a broken switch, or a malfunctioning fixture.

Troubleshooting Tips

Here are some troubleshooting tips for addressing these issues:

• Check the Bulb: Ensure the bulb is securely seated in the socket and that it is the correct type and wattage for the fixture.
• Inspect the Wiring: Look for any loose or damaged wires connecting the bulb to the fixture or the fixture to the power source.
• Test the Fixture: If you suspect a problem with the fixture, try replacing the bulb with a known working one. If the light still doesn’t work, the fixture itself might be faulty.
• Check the Switch: Ensure the switch controlling the light is working properly and is in the “on” position.
• Examine the Circuit Breaker: Make sure the circuit breaker for the lights is not tripped. If it is, reset the breaker and see if the light comes back on.

Testing the Bulb and Fixture

To determine if the problem lies with the bulb or the fixture, follow these steps:

1. Remove the old bulb and insert a new, known-working bulb of the same type and wattage. If the new bulb lights up, the problem was with the old bulb.
2. If the new bulb doesn’t light up, try replacing the bulb in another working fixture. If it lights up in the other fixture, the problem is with the original fixture. If it doesn’t light up, the new bulb might be faulty.

How to replace under cabinet puck light bulbs – Replacing under cabinet puck light bulbs is a breeze, just twist the old one out and pop the new one in. If you’re thinking about upgrading your lighting setup altogether, check out the best led under cabinet lighting 2017 for some seriously cool ideas.

Once you’ve got your new lights installed, you’ll be amazed at how much brighter and more modern your kitchen looks. And the best part? You’ll never have to worry about replacing those pesky bulbs again!

Swapping out those old puck light bulbs is a cinch, just like installing a new set of light rail cabinet trim – it’s all about knowing where to look. First, find the small screws holding the puck light in place, then gently twist it counterclockwise.

Once the old bulb is out, just pop in the new one and tighten it up. Simple as that!