changing GU10 lightbulbs

hannahsmamma

how do you change these b****y things, i've looked on 'tinterweb and it seems they can be very tricky, have tried pushing/turning etc to no avail, think i will need to smash the glass to get it out ! is it worth trying a suction thingy ? any tips appreciated.

davetrousers

GU 10 bulbs require a slight anti-clockwise turn to remove.



Other halogen bulbs don't have this fitting and simply have 2 pins that push in (no turning required) so you kust pull them ones out.


Don't smash them!

Mr_Reeman

grab the bulb. Twist and it will come out.

If its not budging them it could be stuck or damaged. They are usually very easy to change.

bobthedambuilder

Push strongly inwards and then turn about 30degrees anticlockwise. They should then be loose and drop out. They can be little b***ers at times - I've taken to wearing an old pair of leather gloves just in case the glass breaks.

Just a small point - some GU10 holders may have have wire securing clips, a bit like circlips, which hold the bulbs in place (typically you'll see these in recessed ceiling lights). You would obviously need to remove these first - pinch the 2 ends together and the clip will come out, the bulb and socket will drop down, then do as above - in this case you can grab hold of the socket to give you extra purchase when twisting the bulb.

fluffpot

suction cups can help - they are often supplied with the light fittings
Someone with very slim fingers might be able to get a purchase on the edge of the bulb
They can be tricky, but the more you do the more you get the knack for it!

muckybutt

I can recommend using a good blob of bluetac to aid removal of the blinking things, I change loads every month in shops, some simply pop out easily others get subjected to the bluetac method, but never once have I had to resort to breaking any to get them removed.

mike_22_2

The suction cups are handy but to save you going to a wholesaler who may not have one spare to give you. Try putting on a pair of rubber gloves and then using 2 fingers or thumbs to apply a bit of upward pressure and then twist anti clockwise. Wouldn't push too hard as I did that once and fitting popped out of its socket... I can feel my shoulders aching at the thought of my next bulb failing...

NIGHTPORTERUK

Method I use is to cut a piece of cellotape (the wider the better) about twice the width of the bulb. Stick to the bulb surface,hold the excess tape on each side, press lightly with your thumbs on the bulb and twist