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Why Won't My Pool Light Turn On?

When a pool light will not turn on, the most common causes are a tripped GFCI, a tripped breaker, a burned-out bulb, or water inside the light fixture. Reset the GFCI and the breaker first. If the GFCI trips again, leave it off and call a pro, because that usually means water has gotten into the fixture or the wiring. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix, so do not open an underwater light yourself. Top Dog Pool Supply replaces pool and spa lights, including LED lighting.
Pentair variable-speed pool pump sold and installed by Top Dog Pool Supply in Bakersfield

What are the usual causes?

  • A tripped GFCI. Pool lights are protected by a GFCI outlet or breaker with test and reset buttons. It may be at the equipment pad, on an outside wall, or in the garage.
  • A tripped breaker, or a switch, timer, or automation setting that is off.
  • A burned-out bulb. Older incandescent and halogen bulbs do not last as long as LED.
  • Water in the fixture. A failed lens gasket lets water in. You may see water or fog behind the lens.
  • A failed transformer on a low-voltage light.
  • Corroded wiring or a bad connection.

What can I safely check myself?

  • Step 1: Find the GFCI that protects the light and press reset.
  • Step 2: Check the breaker panel for a tripped breaker and reset it once.
  • Step 3: Check the switch, the timer, and any automation or remote that controls the light.
  • Step 4: Look at the light through the water. Water or fog behind the lens means the fixture has leaked.
  • Step 5: If the GFCI or breaker trips again, leave it off and call a pro.
Do not open the fixture, pull it out of the wall, or work on pool wiring yourself.

Is it worth switching to LED?

Usually, yes. LED pool lights use much less electricity, last far longer than incandescent bulbs, and many can change colors. If your old fixture has leaked or the bulb keeps burning out, replacing it with an LED light often makes more sense than repairing it. We replace pool and spa lights and install LED lighting.

When should I call for help?

Call us if the GFCI will not stay reset, if you see water inside the light, if the light flickers, or if anyone feels a tingle in the water. If someone feels a tingle, get everyone out and turn off the power at the breaker. If you'd rather have us come to you, a service visit starts with a $139 diagnostic fee. It covers our fuel and travel time, diagnosing your pool equipment, and a written work order for your approval. The fee doesn't cover any repairs.

Why does my pool light keep tripping the GFCI?

Water has usually gotten into the fixture or the wiring. Leave the light off and have it checked.

Can I replace a pool light bulb myself?

We do not recommend it. The fixture has to come out of the water and be resealed correctly, and a bad seal lets water in. Have a technician do it.

Does the pool need to be drained to change a light?

Usually not. Most pool lights have enough cord to be lifted onto the deck for service.

How long do LED pool lights last?

Much longer than incandescent bulbs, often many years of normal use.

Don't cry, we can help

Bring the part, a photo, or the model number to Top Dog Pool Supply, and we'll help you figure out what it needs. We repair and install pool equipment and are an authorized service center for most major brands. Visit us at 7440 District Blvd Suite B, Bakersfield, CA 93313, or call (661) 664-9000. We're open Monday to Friday 9 to 5, Saturday 9 to 4, and Sundays 10 to 4 from April through September. Financing is available through GreenSky: 12 monthly payments on pool equipment, interest-free when paid in full within 12 months, subject to credit approval. Call (661) 664-9000 for details.

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ADDRESS
7440 District Blvd Suite B Bakersfield, CA 93313
Phone: (661) 664-9000
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Bakersfield, CA, with Zip Codes 93301, 93304, 93305, 93306, 93309, 93311, 93312, 93313, and 93314 HOURS Mon–Fri: 9am–5pm Sat: 9am–4pm Sun: 10am–4pm (April–September)
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