Remove Broken Light Bulbs Without Getting Cut or Shocked Using a Water Bottle

by prabbit22m in Workshop > Lighting

337104 Views, 32 Favorites, 0 Comments

Remove Broken Light Bulbs Without Getting Cut or Shocked Using a Water Bottle

Bottle1.JPG
Bottle2.JPG
I made this instructable for the "SAVE THE BOTTLE" contest. I know there are other ways of getting this piece out but I wanted find a good use for a water bottle. The risk of getting shocked is pretty much non existant with a water bottle when compared to a potato or pliers.


Remove Broken Light Bulbs Without Getting Cut or Shocked With A Water Bottle.

Have you ever tried to remove a light bulb and had it break in your hand. DON'T try to get the metal piece out with your hands or pliers. You could get shocked or cut! Here's an instructable on how to use an ordinary water bottle to extract that piece.

Remove Label, Lid and Collar

Bottle4.JPG
First, TURN THE LIGHT SWITCH OFF. Now, if it's a lamp with a cord and plug then, UNPLUG THE LIGHT. Then, double check the light switch is off. Then double check that it's unplugged. If you've ever been shocked you'll know why I repeated those steps. LEARN from my mistakes here people! Haha The devise we're making is plastic so you're not likely to be shocked even if the power is on but it's better to be safe than sorry.

Now, take an empty water bottle. The heftier ones are better for this application. Remove the cap, the label and the little ring around the neck that breaks when you take the lid off.

Melt the Bottle Neck

DSC00839.JPG
DSC00842.JPG
Now, heat the threaded part over the stove or a lighter until it gets soft. Then shape it with your hands until it looks like this. DON'T touch the hot plastic too long. Just short spurts like the video. You can dip it in water to cool it down or let it air dry.


Remove the Broken Light Bulb

Bottle3.JPG
GET OUT OF THE WAY
GET OUT OF THE WAY
GET OUT OF THE WAY
GET OUT OF THE WAY ...

... when you push and twist so you don't get glass on you. If you've ever had glass lodged under your skin or in your eye you'll know why I repeated that four times. Again, learn from my mistakes here.

Congratulations, now you've removed the entire bulb without getting cut or electrocuted.

PS if you put a tiny bit of petroleum jelly on the threads of the new bulb it will be easier to take out when it burns out next time.