Changing or upgrading a swimming pool light

Dec 26 2023

You actually do not have to drain a swimming pool to change a light bulb in your swimming pool light.

However if there is any electrical issues seek the advice of a qualified electrician. Installing an adequate safety switch may be required. Effective combination safety switches can also act as a circuit breaker. It may save your life.

There is quite a science to the placement, type and position of swimming pool lights. Here is what we have gleaned from various experts.

Design of swimming pool lights

The general aim with swimming pool lights is to eliminate dark spots.
Another issue is hot spots - pool lights burn hot (it is recommended not to turn them on when they are out of water).
The aim is to create an even glow with the lights placed a minimum of 10 cm from the surface and maximum of 45 cm from the surface.
The size and shape of the pool will affect the number and placement of lights.

Avoid having lights placed where they shine into your home.

Shadowing is where a light is blocked by a pool structure and causes a shadow.

More lights - low wattage

Ensure you only use the correct amout of wattage - choose your globes to ensure they are fit for use with the system you are putting them.

As a general rule opt for more lights with less wattage.

If using smaller halogen globes do not touch them with your hands as the oil on your fingers can cause the light to explode.

How do the lights remain water tight

There are a series of well designed gaskets, clamps and covers that allow the lights to remain water tight.

Each light may have a long cord whcih allows you to extract the unit to above the water line. From above the water line you can replace the bulb.

An example of the breakdown of a pool light source: www.pentair.com

WARNING seek qualified electrical advice before attempting to change a pool light.