Pool light repair questions.

[BillF99]

I'm in the process of changing a burned out bulb in my Amerlite #400BC (120v) light assembly. I have pulled the light out of the housing and disassembled and cleaned it. I plan on replacing the gasket, but I have a couple of questions. The lamp looks just like any outdoor floodlamp, but I see online that the vendors are asking $30 to $40 for replacement lamps. Is the proper lamp something special? Also I'm have a hard time believing that assembly won't leak water into it over time. Is there some caulk or something that I should be using on the gasket?

[thepoolman1]

Outdoor flood lamps are usually in the 65 - 75 watt range. Pool bulbs are 300 - 500 watt bulbs, usually heavy duty type (rated for more than 120 volts). They are also a specialty item and that usually means a higher price. I've seen pools with standard flood lamps in them, very poorly lit.

The gasket is all you need, just put a LIGHT coat of pool lubricant on it (just make it shiny) and tighten the clamp. With a new gasket it shouldn't leak.

[imfignewton]

Hey, if I install one of those yellow porch light bulbs in my pool light will it keep the bugs out of my pool?

[fission7x]

Hey, if I install one of those yellow porch light bulbs in my pool light will it keep the bugs out of my pool?

Oh how I wish that were true! Last year it was invasion of the flying ants,
this year, it's invasion of the beetles! :(