How to Change an HID Light Bulb
Changing an HID light bulb is not the same as changing a conventional light bulb. HID -- high-intensity discharge -- bulbs produce more lumens per watt than ordinary light bulbs.
These lights are usually found in industrial, commercial and transportation settings, but they are also used for flood lighting and other residential lighting tasks. HID lights use metallic salts that are vaporized within the bulb. Because of the bulb's intensity it burns extremely hot, thus one must take more care when changing an HID light bulb.
Things You Will Need
- New HID bulb
- Towel or cotton glove
Tip
Many municipalities won't allow burnt-out HID lights to be put out for trash collection, so it's wise to check with the local sanitation authority. Some communities have recycling programs for HID bulbs. Check local regulations for details and dispose of the old light in an approved fashion.
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Leave the light fixture off for at least 30 minutes before touching the HID bulb. These bulbs take much longer to cool than traditional bulbs, so let the bulb cool completely to avoid injury.
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Remove the tempered glass covering, if applicable. Not all fixtures will have this component, but if yours does, remove the screws or clasps that hold the cover in place and remove it from the fixture.
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Unscrew the HID bulb in a counterclockwise motion using a towel or cloth glove to remove it. Never handle these bulbs without a hand-covering as oils can damage the overall light fixture.
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Screw the new bulb into your fixture with a clockwise motion, again using a towel or glove. HID bulbs are fragile so be careful not to over-twist when inserting.
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Reattach any glass covering and turn on light to test. Leave the light on for at least 30 minutes the first time. HID bulbs must reach full temperature the first time they are turned on.
The Drip Cap
- Changing an HID light bulb is not the same as changing a conventional light bulb.
- Leave the light fixture off for at least 30 minutes before touching the HID bulb.
- These bulbs take much longer to cool than traditional bulbs, so let the bulb cool completely to avoid injury.
- Screw the new bulb into your fixture with a clockwise motion, again using a towel or glove.
References
Writer Bio
Steve Bradley is an educator and writer with more than 12 years of experience in both fields. He maintains a career as an English teacher, also owning and operating a resume-writing business. Bradley has experience in retail, fashion, marketing, management and fitness. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and classics.
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