When omelighting a floor lamp stops working, the first thing many people do is look to see if the bulb has blown. If it has, it’s a simple matter of replacing it and all should be well. However, there are other reasons the lamp may not be working. The power cord may be damaged, the switch may be faulty or there could be a problem with one of the electrical components inside the socket. These problems can be easy to fix, but it is important to know what you’re doing. If you’re not confident enough to fix the problem yourself, a professional should be contacted to do so.
Before starting any work on a floor lamp, make sure that the power is turned off and there are no other electrical items plugged into the same outlet. It is also a good idea to plug another lamp or electrical item into the outlet just to make sure that there is no other problem with the wiring in your house. If everything checks out okay, the next step is to check the cord. If the lamp has a switch (the kind that looks like a little wheel or toggle on a small plastic case that clamps onto the cord), it’s possible that the switch is bad. This type of switch can be replaced, and replacements are available at most hardware stores.
It is also possible that the brass tab on the bottom of the socket has become flattened, which can prevent the light bulb from making a connection with it. If this is the case, you’ll need to bend the tab back up slightly in order for it to properly contact the bulb.
Lastly, the electrical plug at the end of the cord could be the source of the problem. Often the plug will have a piece of metal protruding out of it that can rub against other components and create short circuits, which are why this part is usually covered with a wire sleeve. If this is the case, it will need to be removed and replaced in order for the lamp to work correctly.
It is also possible that the dimmer switch is bad, although this is less likely. These switches are very delicate and can wear out after a lot of use, which is why it’s always a good idea to keep spares on hand. You can usually find a new one at any home improvement store, and they are fairly inexpensive. The same is true for the sockets and cords, which can be purchased for about $10 each. If these parts are replaced and the lamp still does not come on, then it is probably time to call a professional. This will be the best way to make sure that all of the problems have been fixed and that the lamp is in good working condition. This will save you a lot of money in the long run.