How to Remove the Glass Cover on Recessed Lighting

Recessed lighting fixtures are typically installed with glass covers to focus and direct the light, as well as to protect individuals below if a bulb breaks or shatters. The glass covers typically screw onto the fixture or slide off in one direction to remove and replace the bulb above. Recruit a friend to help hold the ladder steady while you remove the covers on recessed lighting fixtures. For safety's sake and ease of handling, remove only one cover at a time.

Things You'll Need

• Ladder
• Screwdriver

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Turn off the lights and let the fixtures cool. Depending on the bulb type and wattage, the glass covers may be hot.

   • 2

     Position the ladder under one lighting fixture and climb to the glass cover to determine how it is attached.

   • 3

     Unscrew round glass covers one at a time, or slide off rectangular or square covers on the metal tracks that hold them in place.

   • 4

     Remove and replace one bulb at a time in each recessed fixture.

   • 5

     Screw on or slide in the glass cover when finished.