The Correct Way to Remove a Shattered Light Bulb Base

 

We've all had a light bulb break leaving part of the bulb, the base, still stuck in the socket. Some people say that inserting a carrot and turning it will help remove a broken light bulb base. This is like an old wives tale or something. Even if you have the right size carrot it still doesn't work! Do yourself a favor and just use a pair of needle-nose pliers to slowly remove the bulb base, as described below.

 

 

remove-lightbulb-base

 

 

Obviously, before you take out the broken bulb base, be sure to turn off the power. If the light was on for a long time, wait a while before you start so you don't burn yourself.

Grab the edge of the bulb base with the tip of the needle-nose pliers and slightly jiggle it while turning. Then move your pliers about half an inch around and jiggle it slightly while turning, again. Keep going; it just takes patience!

 

 

 

 

Of course I recommend the new-fangled florescent bulbs insead of the old type. Buy them here:

 

GE 13-Watt Energy SmartTM - 8 Pack - 60 watt replacement

 

 

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