Lighting, Light Fixtures, Ceiling and Exhaust Fans - Dusk to Dawn issues

I replaced our Dusk to Dawn bulb 2 days ago. The light isn't coming on. Is there something else I need to do?

Hi Creative,
Did you replace the bulb because it failed or because you wanted to convert to a CFL? or other?

If it had failed, test the new bulb in another location to be sure it is a good bulb. If it is good, then you may have a bad photo sensor, socket, or just not have the new bulb screwed in tight enough, but post back and someone will help you determine the next step.

If you replaced the bulb with a CFL, they have issues working with photo or motion sensors. Again post back and someone will describe your options.

Bud

First check to be sure the power is getting to the light. If it is then take a look at the bulb. Is the filiment good? Sometimes rough treatment at the store shakes the filiment apart. If the bulb looks good, cover the sensor with something and wait 2 to 3 minutes for the bulb to light. It takes a little time for a bulb to fully light. I am assuming this is a mercury or sodium vapor light. If you hear a hum but the bulb does not light then the bulb is bad. You can remove the bulb and do a continuity check on it with 1 lead on the center bottom and the other on the side threads. No reading...bad bulb. If bulb checks good and light hums when the sensor has been covered for a couple minutes then it must be the socket the bulb screws into. You can turn the power off to the light at the breaker box, remove the bulb and use needle nose pliers to pull the center prong down slightly in the socket. Reinstall the bulb and if that does not work then you need a new light.

Thanks for the advice. We checked the bulb, and it is good. So we went to the sensor, covered it, but the light still didn't come on. We turned the sensor to adjust how bright the light would be, and sure enough, that was it! Now it is shining brightly. Thanks a lot!