Step-by-step instructions for changing a light bulb in a stretch ceiling
Replacing a light bulb in a stretch ceiling has a number of features. The replacement process may differ depending on the type of ceiling and fixtures used. In order to avoid common mistakes, you need to read the instructions on how you can change a light bulb in a stretch ceiling in advance.
Types and characteristics
Before replacing a light bulb, you need to know its type and buy a new one. There are several features to consider when choosing a light fixture.
Basement
An important element of any light bulb is the base. The purpose of the element is to connect the conductive parts of the lamp and the corresponding socket. The lamps can have the same glass bulb, but differ in the type of base.
Depending on the supports integrated into the stretch ceiling, choose luminaires with a suitable base.
The base / plinth marking is determined on the basis of an internationally accepted standard, which allows you to purchase the desired option, knowing the combination of letters and numbers. The first letters of the marking indicate the shape of the base, and the numbers indicate the distance between the contacts, the diameter of the thread or the outer dimensions of the base housing.
Threaded
Threaded caps are often used in incandescent lamps and energy efficient light sources. This variety is known to many as the Edison base. When choosing lamps with a threaded base, you should pay attention to the numbers in the marking, which in this case determine the outer diameter of the thread.
Pin
One type of socket is denoted by the Latin letter G. To connect the bulb to the socket, a pin system is used. The numbers in the name indicate the gap between the center portions of the pins, and with a large number of pins, the diameter of the circle on which their centers lie.
Bayonet
This base type has a modified design of the threaded member. The function of the wire is performed by the pins located on the lateral sides, on which the lamp is fixed in the holder. Depending on the manufacturer, the bayonet base is marked with the Latin letter B or Russian Ш. Before the letter, the numerical designation of the number of contacts is indicated, after the letter - the diameter of the case. Thanks to the precise fixing, bulbs with bayonet base can be two-pin and three-pin.
Lamp type
In addition to the type of base, when replacing a light bulb in a stretch ceiling, you need to know its type. There are several types of lamps that have distinctive features and characteristics.
Incandescent
Incandescent lamps are the most common option and are light sources that emit a flux of light due to the incandescence of a tungsten conductor.... Refractory metal has a high melting point, which is why it is used in lighting fixtures. The filament is housed in a glass bulb filled with an inert gas to prevent oxidation. Low wattage incandescent lamps are produced without the use of inert gas. Benefits of this type include:
- affordable cost;
- instant inclusion;
- wide power range.
In comparison with other varieties, several negative aspects can also be distinguished. For example, a short lifespan and low efficiency, since only a tenth of the electricity consumed is converted into light radiation.
Halogen
Halogen lamps are similar in design to standard incandescent lamps. Inside a large clear or frosted glass bottle is a thin tungsten filament surrounded by a gaseous mixture. Due to the current supply, the wire heats up to 2500 degrees. When heated, the tungsten filament glows white, but the illumination depends on the color of the bulb.
Halogen light sources are more expensive than alternatives, but the high cost pays off due to long life and economical power consumption.
Luminescent
Fluorescent lamps are made in the form of an oblong glass tube, sealed on both sides. The inside of the tube is coated with a phosphor and the space is filled with an inert gas. The lamp also contains a small amount of mercury, which heats up and creates mercury vapor. The glow of fluorescent lamps is based on the heating of the tungsten element and subsequent radiation, which is absorbed by a special compound, causing bright light.
The high power of the fluorescent light sources is possible thanks to the internal phosphor coating. At the same power consumption, the power is higher than that of incandescent lamps, which is why the luminescent type is also considered energy efficient.
After ignition, the tungsten filament continues to burn, but is only used to support the glow discharge.
LEDs
The main characteristic of LED type lamps is the reduction of energy consumption. Another advantage is the long service life, which can reach 100,000 hours. LED products are able to work with any voltage indicator and there is no need to additionally install ballast resistors.
Step by step instructions
By consistently following the instructions for replacing the lamp in the stretch fabric, you can avoid common mistakes and problems. The step-by-step instructions include several standard steps and do not require special skills.
General rules
Before proceeding to the direct performance of the work, you should familiarize yourself with the general rules. You will also need to complete several preparatory activities.
Stairs
A stepladder is necessary for working at height. When choosing a ladder, you should consider its height so that it is comfortable to stand on the rack and easily reach the ceiling.
Gloves
Using work gloves will help to avoid fingerprints on the surface of the stretch ceiling and lighting fixtures. Otherwise, you can easily stain the canvas, which will cause a number of problems during its subsequent cleaning and will take a lot of time.
Efforts
As a rule, minimal effort is required to extract a light bulb from a stretch ceiling structure. It is important to carefully twist and remove the fixture from the fabric to avoid deformation.
voltage cut
Disconnecting the power supply beforehand reduces the risk of injury while working. To do this, it is enough to switch the corresponding switches in the electrical panel.Often, many make a mistake and limit themselves to pressing the switch in the room, but this measure does not provide complete protection against electric shock and electrical breakdowns.
Dismantling
The process for removing a used lamp depends on the type of lamp used. Standard incandescent bulbs can be simply unscrewed. The halogen or LED version will need to be swung slightly with smooth, flowing movements, and if firmly attached you can gently rotate it around its axis and then remove it.
Install a new lamp
After buying a new lamp, you first need to make sure that it is working properly using a special tester. Then you need to insert the bulb by following these instructions:
- turn off the electricity in the room for security reasons;
- remove the fastener from the old lamp and the insulation from the wiring;
- disconnect the wires and remove the fixture;
- install a new bulb, connect the wires to their original position and restore the electrical insulation;
- hide the wires and put the LED lamp cover;
- secure the cover with bolts.
Fixation
Fixing the light source in the ceiling spotlight is most often done using the retaining ring. To do this, squeeze its side clips, insert them into the grooves and release.For versions without a retaining ring, you will need to completely remove the lighting device from the tensioning sheet and, after replacing it, secure it with fixing bolts.
Solving problems fixing steel rims
Often during work a problem arises with a steel fastening rim. The causes of problems are natural wear, mechanical damage, factory defects or violation of operating rules. A common problem is that the steel rim does not lock in place and continually falls off.
Casing deformation
Damage to the casing of the mounting rim during work does not allow it to be securely fastened.
If there is a minor defect, you can try to eliminate it, and if there is a severe deformation, it will be more convenient to purchase a new steel rim.
Wrong spring size
The use of inappropriately sized springs leads to them abutting against the body and pressing against it with force. As a rule, such a problem arises when replacing several bulbs at once, due to which the rings merge and are attached to inappropriate places in the tension structure.
Improper installation of the false ceiling
Incorrect installation of a stretch ceiling also leads to incorrect positioning of certain elements, so that the steel mounting flange cannot be locked in place. To avoid the occurrence of such a situation, you must strictly follow the instructions for installing the ceiling or use the services of professionals.
Characteristics of the replacement type GX535
To replace a fixture marked GX 35, hold the body with one hand and turn the bulb counterclockwise 20 degrees with the other.Stop rotation after clicking. It then remains to remove the device by pulling slightly downwards. Installing and fixing a new bulb is done by aligning the contacts and twisting in the opposite direction. A click should also be heard.
How to replace E14 and E27 lampholders
The procedure for replacing E14 and E27 cartridges does not differ from the standard one. Cartridges are unscrewed counterclockwise, then new ones are screwed clockwise. The main thing when performing work is not to confuse the dimensions of the plinths.
How to replace the lamp correctly
To properly remove the luminaire, you must follow the instructions, which are different for each type. Considering all the features and nuances will help to avoid mistakes when replacing and further operating light sources.
When to call specialists
It is recommended to turn to specialists in the case of a complex stretch ceiling structure.
You can also resort to the help of a third party if you are unsure of the right freelance work.
Common Mistakes
When replacing light sources on a stretch canvas, many make mistakes due to inattention or lack of practical experience. Common errors include:
- an attempt to unscrew a light bulb without a threaded fastener;
- neglect of replacement instructions;
- using the wrong type of light sources;
- the execution of the work without a prior power cut;
- installation of halogen bulbs without protective gloves.
Making mistakes often leads to malfunctioning lighting fixtures. In addition, errors can lead to reduced service life and short circuits.
Tips & Tricks
With helpful suggestions, it will be easier to get the job done. The main advice is to strictly follow the provisions of the installation instructions. From additional recommendations, it can be noted that if spotlights are installed in the stretch ceiling, replacement should be carried out some time after the power failure.
If you try to remove the lamp immediately after turning off the light, you can burn yourself on the uncooled housing.