How To Change A Lightbulb In A Bathroom Exhaust Fan

How To Change A Lightbulb In A Bathroom Exhaust Fan
  • Author: Amanda Arnold
  • Posted On: February 24, 2022
  • Updated On: August 21, 2023

Heavy grade exhaust is installed to keep the bathrooms dry and prevent mold growth. An exhaust fan with a light bulb is a popular feature in many restrooms. You’ll probably want to replace the light bulb in your exhaust fan as soon as it goes out, even if you have other light fixtures in your bathroom.

The task of changing the light bulb in a bathroom exhaust fan is simple and takes little time. However, it will necessitate the application of your most advanced technical talents. Let’s have a look at how this can be accomplished. Simply uncover the exhaust fan and change the light bulb to remove or replace a light bulb.

Depending on the type of exhaust fan you have, the procedure for this small repair may differ slightly.

A Few Safety Considerations To Change A Lightbulb In A Bathroom Exhaust Fan

It is critical that you keep water and electricity separate. While you’re working on the exhaust fan, don’t forget to turn off the water in your sink or shower. To reduce the risk of electric shock, cut off power at the circuit breaker that controls the exhaust fan.

Before you begin, make sure to turn off the light switch or knob that regulates the exhaust fan. If you’re going to reach the exhaust fan using a stepladder or a stool, make sure it’s secure on the floor.

Ladder or stool legs should not be placed on grout lines or uneven carpeting. While climbing the stool to replace the exhaust fan light bulb, ask another adult to keep an eye on you.

It’s advisable not to put the stool or stepladder in the tub if your exhaust fan is over your shower or tub. If necessary, ensure that the legs are uniformly distributed throughout the tub. Also, before you do anything else, make sure the tub is completely dry.

Steps To Change A Light Bulb In The Exhaust Fan

Required Supplies

  • A new light bulb
  • Ladder
  • Safety kit
  • Gloves
  • Screwdriver’s kit

Shut Off Power Supply

Ensure your wires are covered with an insulated covering before changing the bulb. If no such scenario exists, you may wish to turn off the electric supply from the fuse box or the main supply so that touching the exhaust fan is safe.

The shaft of an exhaust fan is held in place by a series of nuts that must be unscrewed with a screwdriver, and if the electric supply is not turned off, you may receive a shock. First and foremost, safety! Your first move, as it always is, will be to turn off the main power supply because your life is far more valuable than a bathroom exhaust light bulb.

Remove Fan Cover

Place the ladder near the exhaust fan so that you can easily reach it. You might want to position the ladder such that you can easily reach the bulb via the fan. Check for any screws holding the exhaust fan cover to the fan body before removing it.

Remove the lid by unscrewing the nuts and rotating the screws anticlockwise. Check for clips if no screws can be found. The clips secure the cover in place, and most are click-in clips that do not require any force.

Remove Old Light Bulb

First and foremost, put your rubber glove on. You don’t want to get harmed by the fan blades or any exposed sharp edges. Remove the old bulb and carefully arrange it in a position that will prevent it from rolling over.

Install New Light Bulb

Remove the replacement bulb from the package and screw it into place. If this is a different exhaust, with the bulb within a shaft near the motor, the holder will be small and delicate. Be careful when replacing the bulb to avoid damaging the motor or disturbing any wiring.

When shopping for a replacement light bulb for your bathroom exhaust fan, make sure to get one with a similar wattage and size to ensure that it fits properly inside the exhaust fan. When you have the replacement light bulb, place it in the bulb holder of your exhaust fan and turn it clockwise to the highest setting.

Install The Cover Back

You’ve completed your task. You changed the bulb and double-checked it. Now, you can replace the cover. It is safe to turn off the power for this purpose. Instead of the shaft, screw in the nut. Make sure they’re securely fastened. Cover the exhaust fan with the cover. Using a screwdriver, secure it in place.

Adjust the clips in position and side the cover on the clips that they adjust and fasten if it was an exhaust fan with clips. Make careful you don’t use too much effort, or the exhaust cap will shatter.

Once you’ve completed all of the steps, you may securely turn on the power and enjoy the bright, airy bathroom. Because these bulbs run on low voltage, it’s best to keep an eye on short-circuiting when you see electrical fluctuation.

Final Thoughts

You don’t want any moisture to build up in the bathrooms, especially if your bathrooms have undergone intensive anti-slip or mold treatments, so keep your exhaust fans in good working order.

While you’re replacing the light bulb, you might want to wash the cover in your bathroom sink or tub with water and a little soap. On the exhaust fan lid, dust and grime can accumulate over time. To maintain the quality and output of the system, always replace the bulbs with the same wattage and make.

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Author: Amanda Arnold

Amanda has been working with ConstructionHow since 2021. Her experience spans over 5 years in the creative niche such as home decor and trends, landscaping, renovations, and custom architectural values. As a home designer expert, she has a keen eye for the latest home improvement trends with accurate facts that readers find impossible to ignore. Being invested in home-building trends is how she has gained her lucrative expertise exploring more to bring a positive ambiance for all homeowners (and even tenants!). Currently, she lives in a beautiful beach home, a source of fascination for her.

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