A desk lamp is an important fixture in your home. It provides illumination for your work area, and it adds the desired aesthetic to your home. When your desk lamp goes on the fritz, is can be disruptive to your personal and professional life. Fortunately, there are easy fixes that you can do at home to ensure everything runs smoothly. Here are a few you can try.
Tightening a Loose Socket
It is not unusual for companies to ship lamps with the socket in a loosened positioned. This is done to minimize damage when the item is in transit. When the lamp arrives, the socket may be partially hanging from the base of the lamp connected by an electrical wire. To put it back in position, pull the cord with a firm grip. This will put the socket back into position without the need to screw it in.
Adding Dimming Capabilities to a Desk Lamp
An overly bright desk lamp is an easy fix. Simply replace the current bulb with a lower wattage bulb. Any bulb should work with the lamp as long as it’s at or under the recommended wattage. You may also choose to purchase a plug-in dimmer switch. This will throttle the electricity sent to the bulb. For best results, use a dimmable light bulb. If you are using a LED bulb, make sure the dimmer switch is LED compatible.
Fixing a Flickering Desk Lamp
If your desk lamp is flickering, it could be because the bulb is loose, or it could be because it’s almost burned out. To fix it, try tightening the bulb. If that doesn’t work, try replacing the bulb completely.
You may also be having flickering issues because you are using an LED bulb on an older lamp that is not compatible with LED or a dimmer switch not rated for LED bulbs. If changing and tightening your light bulbs does not stop the flickering, you may have a wiring issue. If that’s the case, it’s best to call in an electrician.
Fixing a Pull Chain on a Desk Lamp
Pull chains are features often included in older lamps designs. They replace on and off switches. If your pull chain breaks or no longer functions properly, you may be able to replace it. There are many hardware and lighting stores that carry components and parts such as chains, etc.
If you are not comfortable changing the chain yourself, call in a professional to do it for you.
A desk lamp is an essential part of your home décor. If you are experiencing issues with your lamps, there are quick fixes that can save you on costly, time-consuming repairs. What do you do when the fixtures in your home go haywire?
