Help with recessed lighting?

Question

So I have 18' ceilings with four recessed lights. I wanted to replace the 65w incandescent indoor floodlights with 90w indoor halogen floodlights. I used a long extending pole made for replacing the light bulbs, but when i tried to slide it off of the halogen, instead of slipping off the bulb, it took the whole recessed fixture out. I shoved the fixture back in (mostly) and walked up to the second floor landing where I used a broom to hold the recessed fixture up while my wife took the pole off the bulb. However, that won't work for the other fixtures that are out of reach from the 2nd floor landing.

So, should i give up, or is there a better way to do this? It seems the problem is the shape of the halogens - they aren't smoothly curved around the bulb, they are more conical with a slight lip around the crown. Also, how do i get the recessed fixture back in properly? Do i need a huge ladder?

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

First of all, 90 watt halogen bulbs are too big for that fixture. It is a fire hazard. The highest you can go is a 75 Watt halogen.

That should solve most of your problems but those pole things need to be pulled off your bulb and the trim for your fixture is up there by friction only. Besides using and taller ladder or scaffolding, you can pull until the pole is away from the light and the trim will catch. It will not come all the way out. Then use the pole to push it back in place. It may take a bit but it will work.

Source(s):

Master Electrician

Asker's Rating:

Asker's Comment:

thanks. i will be taking your advice. i found some "br30" halogen floods that seem to be much easier to release from the pole.

Answer 2

scaffolding or a ladder

Answer 3

how old is the house.someone did not install them correctly.that is not supposed to happen.call the builder or a building inspector.find where the fault lies.good luck.