Alternatively, use a pair of heavy-duty rubber dishwashing gloves—they aren’t as protective but still provide the grip you’ll need to successfully unscrew the light cover. [2] X Research source
If the light cover starts to rotate, keep twisting it counterclockwise until it releases and comes off. Move on to replacing the bulb. If the light cover won’t budge, you’ll have to persuade it with some gentle tapping (as described in the next step).
Don’t use a bare metal handle or you’ll end up cracking or even shattering the cover. If you don’t have a tool with a soft-grip handle, slip a pair of socks over the head of a rubber mallet and use it for tapping. Hopefully the tapping will loosen up the cover to rotate freely when you twist it. If not, try tapping the cover another time around—your patience will be rewarded![5] X Research source
For your safety, confirm that the new bulb does not have a higher wattage rating than the maximum wattage rating for the fixture. Look for a sticker on or near the socket to get this max rating. If your ceiling fan light fixture has a dimmer switch, make sure the replacement bulb is dimmer compatible. Some LED bulbs aren’t compatible and will flicker or fail if used with a dimmer.
This style is a classic light cover for ceiling fans, especially those more than about 10 years old.
If you can’t get the holding screws to turn with your fingers, use a pair of needle-nose pliers or a small screwdriver.
Make sure the old bulb has been off for a few minutes so it’s not too hot to touch, especially if it’s an incandescent bulb. Make sure the new bulb doesn’t have a higher wattage rating than the max rating listed on or near the fixture’s socket. Make sure to use a bulb that is dimmer-compatible if your fan’s light has a dimmer switch.
Don’t over-tighten the screws or you may break the globe.
While clip-style light covers are typically found on standalone ceiling light fixtures, you’ll occasionally find them on ceiling fan lights as well.
Some LED bulbs aren’t made for use with dimmers, so check the bulb packaging if you have a ceiling fan light with a dimmer switch. The surface of an incandescent bulb can reach 250 °F (121 °C), so always give bulbs a chance to cool before handling them. [12] X Research source
Once you’ve replaced the bulb, slide the cover over the threaded shaft and lift it into position. Hold the cover in place with one hand and twist the decorative nut clockwise to screw it onto the exposed tip of the threaded shaft.
If there’s no straightforward way to remove the light fixture cover and there’s no visible bulb under the cover, you probably have this type of fixture. This type of work may require an electrical permit from your local government. LED lights are supposed to work for 50,000 hours or more, so hopefully this won’t be a problem you have to worry about!
