How to Remove the Inner Baffle in Recessed Lighting

Ensure that all power to the recessed fixture is off by locating the main breaker for the home and turning off the corresponding switch. To ensure you have the proper breaker switch turned off, leave the light on before you go to the box. If it goes off, you know the power to the fixture is off.

Place a stool under the recessed light, or use a full step ladder if you have high ceilings. Removing the baffle requires that both of your hands be free, so use a ladder that is steady and on a level surface.

Wait at least five minutes after shutting off the light to allow the bulb to cool down so you don’t burn yourself. Climb up onto the ladder until you can easily reach the ceiling with both hands. Remove the light bulb from the recessed light by twisting it counterclockwise.

Look at the edge of the light where it exits the ceiling. If a round piece of trim is present, insert the tip of a knife, a slotted screwdriver or other thin tool under it and then pull down away from the ceiling to detach it. Set the trim ring aside.

Look up inside the recessed light to locate the conical shaped object, which is the baffle. Reach up into the top center where there is a hole. Grasp the baffle and pull it down gently until you no longer feel it move.

Hold the baffle down with one hand and slide the other hand up into the ceiling cavity until you feel a metal spring. Trace the spring upward until you locate the part of the ceiling mount it attaches to. Lift the spring up slightly to remove it from the mounting hole.

Pull the baffle down out of the fixture completely, which occurs easily once the spring detaches. Reinstall the trim ring and the light bulb, or replace the baffle with a new one as desired.