Have you ever been ready for a refreshing nighttime swim, only to find out that your pool lights aren't working? It can be frustrating, but don't worry! There are a few simple steps you can take to troubleshoot and fix the issue yourself. In this guide, we'll cover some common problems and provide easy solutions to get your pool lights shining again.

Safety First!

Before we dive in, let's emphasize the importance of prioritizing safety in any project you undertake. This is especially crucial when dealing with swimming pools, as water and electricity don't mix well. To ensure your safety, turn off the power to your pool in the circuit breaker box and activate the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) to prevent any electricity flow.

Use an electrical tester to verify that the power is off before proceeding with any troubleshooting.

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Loose Light Fixture

A loose light fixture is one of the easiest issues to fix. There's a single screw called a slot-screw that attaches your pool lights to the pool wall. It can be found on top of the light fixture. If you notice that the retaining ring holding the light in place wobbles when touched, it's time to tighten the slot-screw.

How? Grab a Phillips screwdriver and don your swim goggles. Take a dive and tighten the screw. It's as simple as that!

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Leaking Pool Light

If you swim with goggles, it's a good idea to inspect your pool lights for any signs of leakage. Engineers designed the light fixture to stay dry, and water inside could cause the bulb to blow at any moment. If you see a waterline inside your light, it means you have a damaged or broken lens gasket, and it's time to take action!

The lens gasket is the rubber ring that seals the plastic housing, and exposure to chlorine and age can cause it to deteriorate. But don't worry, it's an easy fix that almost anyone can do. You don't have to empty the pool for this purpose!

There should be enough cable to place the light on the pool deck. Remove the lens frame and take out the old gasket. Replace it with a new one and reassemble the housing, making sure everything is dry. Then, place the unit back into the wall and tighten the slot-screw.

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Tripped Breaker

If your pool lights are still not working, you might need to check your circuit breaker located in your house's basement or utility room. Electrical engineers designed breakers to automatically trip when overloaded.

Your breaker box will have at least one breaker dedicated to your pool. The circuit breaker might have tripped if the circuit is overloaded.

Has your pool circuit breaker tripped? Go to your breaker panel—it will be in the "off" position with a red or yellow square next to it. The first thing you should do is unplug any additional equipment that you may have connected to the same circuit.

Then, reset your breaker by switching it completely off and then back on. If the breaker automatically flips back to the "off" position, you may need to replace it with a new one.

Burnt Out Bulb

After checking the breaker and the lights are still out, it is possible that the bulb itself has burnt out. How many people does it take to replace a pool light bulb? Just one (maybe two)! Follow the instructions above (to change the lens gasket) and get the housing unit on your pool deck.

Remove the bulb and give it a gentle shake next to your ear. If you hear something rattling inside, it means that the filament has burnt out and you need to replace the bulb.

Screw in your new bulb and test it, which can be a bit tricky. Pool lights are often halogen, and even brand new bulbs can quickly burn out when not submerged in water. So, as you screw in your new bulb, try switching on the power to the pool and quickly check if it works. You might need a friend to watch the light while you flip the switch.

Additional FAQs

What's the best way to waterproof my pool lights?

By regularly replacing the lens gasket and ensuring the housing unit is dry, you can effectively waterproof your pool lights.

How often should I test my GFCI?

Refer to your manufacturer's specific instructions, but it's good practice to test it monthly.

Can I fix electrical issues with my pool lights myself?

Yes, you can fix pool light problems yourself if you feel comfortable working with electrical wiring and devices. However, if you're unsure, it's best to consult an electrician or pool professional.

What should I do if I can't fix the problem?

If you're unable to fix the issue with your pool lights, it's best to call a certified electrician or pool professional. They will have the necessary knowledge and skills to resolve the problem.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are simple techniques you can apply when troubleshooting your pool lights. The problem can often be resolved without the expense of calling a professional. However, if you're not comfortable working with electrical wiring and devices, it's best to contact an electrician or pool professional.

Do you have any questions about troubleshooting your pool lights? Let me know. Also, be sure to check out my design guide on pool lighting ideas.