We've lived in this house for 18 months now, and we've always dreaded the day the lightbulbs at the top of the 18' ceiling would start burning out. Well, that day has arrived. What's the best long lightbulb changer? I don't mind going up 3 or 4 feet on a ladder to get closer, but any higher up is a no-go for me.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: 4x5,

We have the same issue and honestly, the best thing is a big sturdy ladder. I replaced all of ours with LEDs so I won't be doing it again in my lifetime. We have one of those sticks with a lightbulb holder, but I find it rather difficult to use. You could also rent a electrically powered lift too.

I've used various extensible grabbers, with reasonable results. Unfortunately I don't recall the maker. I have had better results with the mechanical kinds than the suction-cup kinds.

The one piece of advice I should give is that, particularly for bulbs that are hard to reach and likely to be removed by grabbers rather than by hand, it is a good idea to put a bit of lightbulb grease on the threads of the new bulbs, so that when it is time to remove them, they'll come out easy.

4x5, while I do not have any ideas for you, I am chuckling inside due in part to having a neighbor with a deep set fear of heights to point where:

Last Christmas his wife was very pregnant (like 7-8 months) with their 5th or 6th child (they're working on a softball team I think), was on a ladder installing Christmas lights whilst her husband was diligently watching from the safety of terra firma.

Rather an odd scene to see.

quote:

Originally posted by LS1 GTO:
4x5, while I do not have any ideas for you, I am chuckling inside due in part to having a neighbor with a deep set fear of heights to point where:

Last Christmas his wife was very pregnant (like 7-8 months) with their 5th or 6th child (they're working on a softball team I think), was on a ladder installing Christmas lights whilst her husband was diligently watching from the safety of terra firma.

Rather an odd scene to see.

I had no idea we were neighbors!

While I’ve only had to use this once so far, this Stauber-brand setup (edited to add: in conjunction with a ladder) has worked in a situation similar to what you describe. I can’t remember now if the 4-8’ extension pole was sold with the suction-cup deal as a package or not, but I think it was.

Be careful, there's a good chance you knock the socket from the trim or break a bulb/socket. Using a ladder or hiring and electrician is the best bet.

Personally, just my opinion, I'd research and buy the best quality and longest lasting LED bulbs I could buy. Then I'd hire a professional to come out and replace each and every one at one time.

Good luck to you.
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quote:

Originally posted by OKCGene:
Then I'd hire a professional to come out and replace each and every one at one time.

Makes the most sense to me. At one of my jobs along the way, we did it that way. Just changed all the bulbs at one time. Dpn't play around with it. If one is gone, the others are on their way. The fun part was some of the others that worked there all wanted the bulbs. The workmen didn't argue, except that if you took one you had to take the whole lot.

Thanks for the tip about the grease. I’ve got some high ones. Got a device from Lowe’s, but I put a tarp down because I have broken them

One additional comment: if going incandescant -> LED, pay attention to the color temp. of the new bulbs. Installing one that doesn't please the wife will result in having to do it again. Also, if you have dimmers, make sure the replacements are compatible.

Although I don't have 18' ceilings, all the rooms in our house have the high ceilings with recessed lighting. I have an expandable pole with the suction cup/string release like TheFrontRange has. Works perfectly and I have never dropped a bulb.

For regular bulbs I use one of these.
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Bay...l94kmCxoCVcYQAvD_BwE

Installed on your favorite (sure-line) extendable rod (paint roller extender).

I bought one of the expandable poles & suction cup gizmos. If you need longer, there are poles that I think are used by painters that are longer and more heavy duty.
I wet the suction cup a little so it stays attached and holds on much better.

I was also going to suggest a ladder and a lackey.

I use a Three foot scaffolding and place a ten foot step ladder on that ,then send anyone but myself on the bulb changing venture.