How Much Does Pool Light Replacement Cost in 2025?

Normal Range: $500 - $900

Pool light replacement costs an average of $625 per fixture

How we get this data
Highlights
  • The average expense for replacing a pool light is $625 per fixture.

  • Most homeowners spend between $500 and $900, though specialty installations can reach $1,700.

  • Your total expense depends on factors such as the type and number of lights you’re replacing, existing wiring, and local labor rates.

  • LED lighting systems cost between $700 and $1,500 but offer five times the lifespan of standard options.

  • Hiring a professional pool repair technician ensures your light is installed correctly while minimizing safety risks to your household.

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This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

The average cost to replace a pool light is $625, with prices ranging from $450 to $1,700. Evening swims and nighttime pool parties require proper illumination for safety and ambiance. When your pool lights start to dim or fail completely, replacing them becomes a priority for maintaining your backyard oasis. Your total costs will vary depending on the type and number of lights you’re replacing, the existing wiring, and labor rates. Understanding the costs involved and hiring a certified pool repair pro helps you prepare appropriately for this essential pool maintenance task.

Pool Light Replacement Cost Factors

Several key elements influence the final price tag for your pool light project. From the technology you choose to the condition of your existing electrical system, each factor plays a role in determining overall expenses.

Type of Pool Light

The type of pool light you’re replacing significantly affects project costs. Each model varies in its price point, longevity, and efficiency.

Light TypeCost RangeLifespan (Hours)Energy Efficiency
Incandescent$450–$6501,000-5,000 Low
LED$700–$1,50020,000–30,000 High
Fiber optic$1,300–$1,7006,000Medium

Traditional incandescent options provide the most affordable entry point but require more frequent replacement. Modern LED technology commands a premium price that pays dividends through extended longevity and reduced power consumption. Smaller LED units fall in the $70 to $900 range, while larger models cost $1,00 to $1,500. Fiber optic systems, which keep the actual light source outside the pool, represent the highest investment tier but offer unique aesthetic benefits.

Number of Pool Lights Needed

The dimensions of your swimming area largely determine how many lights you'll need for proper illumination. Compact pools might function well with a single light, while larger installations could require multiple fixtures for adequate coverage. Installing several lights simultaneously may qualify for quantity discounts from some contractors. Some property owners also choose to add supplementary lighting purely for decorative purposes, which naturally increases the overall project cost.

Existing Wiring

Electrical infrastructure issues can substantially impact your budget, adding $350 to $4,000 for necessary upgrades. Swimming pools constructed under previous code standards may require comprehensive rewiring to meet current safety regulations. Moisture exposure often leads to corrosion in pool electrical systems, necessitating replacement for safe operation. The permitting process for electrical modifications costs $50 to $350, with inspection fees running up to an additional $100 for code compliance verification.

Labor

Professional pool repair services near you range from $50 to $100 hourly. Most light replacements require between one and three hours to complete, depending on accessibility and complexity. Many service providers implement minimum call-out fees regardless of job size. The specialized nature of underwater electrical work justifies these rates, as proper installation requires expertise in creating waterproof connections and ensuring system integrity.

DIY vs. Professional Pool Light Replacement

Attempting to replace just the bulb yourself can cost $20 to $100 for materials alone, while a complete DIY fixture replacement would run $100 to $500. However, the combination of electricity and water creates inherent dangers for untrained individuals. Improper installation can compromise waterproofing, damage expensive components, or create shock hazards. Professional services averaging $625 per light provide peace of mind through proper sealing techniques and adherence to safety standards.

How to Save on Pool Light Replacement

To keep your pool light replacement project budget-friendly, consider these saving methods:

  • Gather estimates from several qualified professionals to find competitive rates.

  • When possible, replace only the bulb if your fixture remains in good condition.

  • Select LED technology to reduce long-term costs through energy savings and fewer replacements.

  • Consider pool repair costs ranging from $65 to $150 when minor issues affect otherwise functional lights.

  • Coordinate light replacement with other scheduled maintenance to reduce service charges.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

A pool light replacement often doesn't require draining the water. Most pool lighting systems include sufficient cable length to lift the fixture onto the deck for servicing. The process involves shutting off power at the circuit breaker, removing the mounting screw, and carefully extracting the unit. Professional technicians follow established protocols to maintain safety during this procedure, as the combination of electricity and water requires proper precautions throughout the replacement process.

Replacement intervals vary significantly by light type. Incandescent bulbs require changing every 1,000 to 5,000 hours of operation, while LED options can function for 20,000 to 30,000 hours before needing replacement. Fiber optic lighting falls between these extremes, offering close to 6,000 service hours. Your usage patterns will affect these timeframes, and regular inspection for moisture penetration or connection problems helps prevent premature failures regardless of light technology.

LED pool lighting commands higher prices because these fixtures incorporate sophisticated electronics, superior waterproofing, and premium materials to withstand harsh pool chemicals. The extended operational life—up to six times longer than conventional bulbs—offsets the initial investment over time. Their significantly reduced power consumption also translates to lower electricity expenses throughout their lifespan. Many LED systems also offer programmable color options and effects not available with basic lighting technologies.

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