Pro Handyman Blog

Replacing a Florescent Light Fixture Socket

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The worst thing about replacing a florescent light socket is standing on a ladder. Otherwise it is an easy wiring job to replace the socket.

To gain access to the socket, remove the plastic lens cover and then remove the light bulbs (the tubes). The socket is what the ends of the tubes are sitting in. To get access to the wiring, remove the metal cover right below the tubes. This may have screws holding it in place, or it you may be able to squeeze it and pop the tab out of the slot.

With the cover removed you will be able to see the ballast (s) and wiring. Follow the wires from the socket to the ballast. You will need to cut the two wires leading to the broken socket and replace it. The new socket will come with a length of wire attached. Make sure the power is off to the fixture and cut the wires so that you have plenty of wire to work with. The last thing you want to do is to make the cut so short that the socket leads don’t reach.

The old socket will snap out of its holder, and the new socket will snap right in its place. Use wire nuts to hold everything together and gently tuck the wires back in place. You don’t want sharp bends in the wiring, only gentle loops. A sharp bend could damage the wiring and you want to avoid that.