Written by

Jennifer Carlson

February 13, 2024

Edited by

Kristen Cramer

Fact-checked by

Tara Farmer

Average cost to replace pool lights

Swimming pool light replacement costs $500 to $1,700 on average, depending on the bulb type. This cost includes the light bulb, fixture, and labor. LED pool lights are the most expensive option but last the longest and save money on energy costs. Pool light bulbs cost $30 to $600 each for the bulb alone.

Pool light bulb replacement cost by type

The cost of replacing a pool light depends mostly on the bulb type. LED lights cost more than incandescent lights but are more energy efficient. Fiber optic lights are the most expensive option.

Incandescent

Incandescent pool light replacements cost $500 to $700 per light or about $30 to $70 for just the bulb. These are the least expensive pool lights, but they only last about 1,000 to 5,000 hours, or 1 to 3 years of use, before you’ll have to replace them.

LED

Replacing LED pool lights costs $600 to $900 per light for smaller units or $1,000 to $1,500 for larger ones, including labor. The bulb itself costs $50 to $600, which is pricey, but you only have to replace it every 10 to 20 years. LEDs don’t consume much energy, which means lower utility bills.

Fiber optic

Replacing fiber optic pool lights costs $1,300 to $1,700 per light with labor or about $40 to $80 for the bulb itself. Fiber optic lights have a softer glow than LEDs but are less popular because they don’t last as long—about 3 to 7 years.

Fiber option pool lights cost more to install because they require a special fan to keep the fixture from overheating. Fiber optic bulbs were once popular because of color-changing technology, but they’ve declined in popularity since LEDs with advanced features are cheaper.

Pool light replacement cost factors

The cost of a pool light replacement depends on the following factors:

• Number of bulbs: Most pool owners only have to replace one bulb at a time if it’s damaged or burns out. It’s somewhat rare for multiple lights to burn out at the same time.

• Inground vs. above ground: Above-ground pool lights typically cost less than inground ones and are easier to replace.

• Floating lights: Some pool owners opt for floating pool lights instead of fixed lights, which cost $20 to $100 and are easy to replace. Some floating lights have solar power or fountain features.

• Wiring: Replacing the wire that connects to your pool light will increase costs. If the existing wiring needs repairs, you’ll have to hire someone to handle the electrical work. Electricians charge $50 to $130 per hour, depending on their experience level.

• Maintenance: Pool maintenance costs $80 to $150 per month, including cleaning, chemicals, and winterizing. Some professionals replace pool lights while doing regular maintenance work.

• Repairs: Pool light repairs cost $70 to $150 per light and typically involve replacing a gasket or conduit seal.

Labor

Most pool service professionals charge $50 to $100 per hour to replace light fixtures or change the bulb. Changing a pool light yourself costs $30 to $600, depending on the bulb type, but it’s very risky since the electrical components are so close to the water. It’s best to leave this job to professionals.

How to save money on pool light replacements

Replacing pool lights is much more expensive than indoor light bulbs, mostly because of their added safety features. Here are some tips to help you reduce replacement costs:

• Ask for discounts: Some pool supply or pool service companies offer sales in the fall and winter months when demand is low. 

• Choose LEDs: The upfront cost of LED pool lights may be a lot higher than incandescent or fiber optics, but they don’t need to be replaced as often and save money on electric bills and in the long run.

• Replace bulbs only: If the rest of the light fixture is in good shape, you can save money by replacing just the light bulb instead of the whole unit. Pool light bulbs themselves cost about $30 to $600 each, not including labor.

Pool light replacement FAQs

Can I replace my pool light with an LED bulb?

Yes, you can replace your pool light with an LED bulb. However, since the surrounding parts are probably incompatible, you may have to switch out the whole fixture rather than just the bulb.

Can you replace a pool light underwater?

You can replace a pool light bulb without having to drain the pool or lower the water level. You or the contractor just need to turn off the pool’s electricity, unscrew the fixture above the water, and replace the bulb.

However, if you’re installing a new light or have to do any electrical work, you will probably have to drain the pool at least partially.

How often do I need to change pool lights?

Pool light lifespans depend on the type of bulb, but most last several years before you need to replace them:

• LED bulbs last the longest: 20,000 to 30,000 hours, or 10 to 20 years.

• Incandescent bulbs only last about 1,000 to 5,000 hours, or 1 to 3 years.

• Fiber optic pool lights will last around 4,000 to 8,000 hours, or 3 to 7 years.

Getting estimates from pool service companies

Follow these recommendations when looking for pool service companies near you:

• Compare 3+ quotes from experienced, reputable pool companies.

• Look for members of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP) if possible.

• Check out reviews for pool repair companies on HomeGuide and Google.

• Be wary of extremely low estimates, which may indicate poor-quality work.

• Before the contractor starts replacing the pool lights, get an estimate or contract in writing.

• Wait until they finish the job to pay.

Questions to ask pool contractors

Ask these questions to find high-quality pool repair companies:

• Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?

• How long have you been replacing pool lights?

• What kind of bulb do you recommend?

• Do you have a portfolio or pictures I can see?

• Can you replace just the bulb, or do you have to replace the whole fixture?

• How long will the light replacement take?

• Will you have to drain the pool? If so, will you refill it after you’re done?

• Does the light come with a warranty?