Common Problems With Ceiling Light Fixtures Controlled by Wall Switches
Apparent problems with a ceiling light fixture are usually traced to some issue that is interrupting the flow of electricity from the wall switch to the light fixture. Diagnosing the problem will depend on whether the light bulb does not light up at all, or if it is flickering intermittently. If the light bulb does not light up at all, follow this troubleshooting procedure: If the lightbulb flickers, follow this troubleshooting procedure:
If the bulb flickers on and off, it usually means that the switch contacts are getting bad. Usually, you’ll be able to hear a sizzling or crackling sound if the switch contacts are bad. In this case, replace the switch. It also could be that the wire connections are loose. This could be on the switch itself, at the circuit breaker panel, or in a pass-through wire connection in the wall box or ceiling box. By far the most common problem is a loose wire connection at the switch itself, which is subject to constant on-off usage. Less commonly, a light bulb socket may go bad. If so, you will need to replace the socket.
Common Problems With Recessed Lights (Can Lights)
Recessed canister lights are subject to some of the same problems found in ordinary ceiling light fixtures (see above). In addition, sometimes a recessed light fixture may mysteriously go on and of by itself. This is because recessed lights are equipped with limit switches designed to turn a fixture off automatically if the heat reaches an unsafe level. This can be for one of several reasons:
Check to see if the lightbulbs in the light fixture have the proper wattage for the light fixture. If the wattage is too high, it may be causing the fixture to overheat. Compare the wattage on the light bulb with the rating printed on the light fixture. Install a lower-wattage lightbulb, if necessary. If insulation is packed too tightly around the light fixture, it may be trapping heat around the light fixture canister, causing the limit switch to overheat and shut down the light fixture. Make sure there is enough air circulation around the canister, which will prevent the fixture from overheating. The limit switch may be faulty. If the light bulb wattage is correct and there seems to be proper ventilation around the light fixture, then consider replacing the limit switch or the entire light fixture.
Problems With Integral Switches or Pull Chains
Many ceiling fixtures, especially those found in utility spaces, are controlled by switches or pull chains found on the fixture or socket. To diagnose these:
