How to change bulb in flush mount ceiling light? Here are some useful tips that will help you complete the process with ease.

Changing the bulbs on your flush mount ceiling light seems daunting and overwhelming, unlike replacing LED strips. After all, if not done properly, it can end up being dangerous if you don’t know how to.
In order to change the bulb, you will need to remove the glass diffuser first. Since the fixture is flush-mounted, it makes it difficult to change the bulb. Fortunately, there are ways you can follow in order to know how to change bulb in flush mount ceiling light the right way.
How to Change Bulb in Flush Mount Ceiling Light (Home Guide)
What You Need:
- Ladder – you will use this to change the bulb. A sturdy step ladder will help you reach the flush mount ceiling light with ease. Although it sounds simple, finding the correct ladder for the job will ensure your safety while taking on the job.
- Screwdriver
- New light bulb
You need to be careful when handling the bulb as it’s very fragile and prone to breaking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
To start replacing the bulb, make sure you follow these steps:

1. Turn off the switch and allow the bulb to cool down for about 10 minutes before you unscrew it. While this might sound obvious, it is one of the potentially dangerous steps when it comes to changing light bulbs. If the light was on, touching the glass dome immediately could burn your fingers.
2. Place a secure stepladder under the flush-mounted light fixture, and ensure that it can stand on its own without tipping. If you are working on an 8-foot ceiling, a 4-foot adder would be appropriate. However, if the flush-mounted ceiling light fixture is very high, it is often safer to hire a handyman.
3. The next step is to remove the fixture cover in order to access the bulb. Most glass diffusers have screws. Use one hand to support the glass and your other hand to unscrew the diffuser cap or ornamental finial (round thing) below the light.
If your cover is held in place by a small metal button, simply push it sideways to see if it will free the fixture. When you have completely detached the finial, lower the glass diffuser and place it on the ladder’s shelf.
4. The next step involves removing the old or burnt bulb. The process of taking the bulb out of the socket is a pretty straightforward process if the fixture is easy to reach. For a socket with screw fitting, gently rotate the bulb in a counterclockwise direction.
However, if the bulb is a bayonet-style fitting, push the bulb all the way into the fitting and twist left. This should make the bulb retract from the socket. Once you’re done, use a screwdriver to screw in the new bulb.
5. To put in the new bulb into the lighting fixture socket, turn the bulb in a clockwise direction. Make sure the bulb locks into place and don’t screw it too tight as it might break. If you are putting in a bayonet bulb, use two pins to align the bulb’s base. Switch on the lights to know when to stop turning.
6. Climb down the ladder and take back the diffuser. After that, carefully climb up the ladder and tighten the screws of the diffuser.
Final Thoughts
Even if you fit your light fixtures with durable bulbs, chances are you will still need to change them every once in a while. Flush mount ceiling light fixtures are usually high on your ceiling or walls, and it’s important to work safely when removing a bulb just like when installing it. If your bulb requires replacement, we hope that this step-by-step tutorial on how to change bulb in flush mount ceiling light comes in handy.
If you have any questions or suggestions, please don’t hesitate to leave us a comment below. Explore other articles from KRM Light+ for more helpful guides.