Usually, yes. If your lamp is well made, has sentimental or design value, or simply fits your space, repairing it is often faster, cheaper and better for the environment than buying a new one. Most lamp problems come down to a few small, replaceable parts, and fixing them can give the lamp decades more life.
We've been repairing lamps in West Los Angeles since 1998. Here's how we help customers decide whether a lamp is worth fixing.
What usually goes wrong with a lamp?
The good news: when a lamp stops working, the problem is rarely the lamp itself. It's almost always one of these parts:
- The socket. This is the most common failure we see. Sockets wear out over the years from heat, constant bulb changes and the switch being turned on and off thousands of times. Signs include flickering, a bulb that only works when you wiggle it, or a switch that feels loose or won't click.
- The cord. Older cords dry out, crack or fray, especially near the plug and where the cord enters the base. A damaged cord is a safety hazard and should be replaced, not taped.
- The plug. Bent prongs, loose connections and older non-polarized plugs are common, and all are easy to replace.
- The switch. In-line cord switches and base switches wear out, just like sockets. Replacing an in-line switch at our shop typically costs around $15 to $20.
Because these parts are standard and inexpensive, the lamp's body, shade and finish (the parts that made you choose it) are usually perfectly fine.
How much does it cost to replace a lamp socket?
At our shop, replacing a worn lamp socket typically costs around $35 to $45. For many lamps, a new socket is all it takes to get them working like new again.
Other repairs, such as a full rewire, antique restoration or chandelier work, depend on the piece. We give a free, no-obligation estimate in person, so you'll know the cost before any work begins.
When is a lamp worth repairing?
Repair usually makes sense when:
- It has sentimental value. A lamp from a parent or grandparent can't be replaced at any price.
- It's antique, vintage or a designer piece. Older and designer lamps are often built from solid brass, glass, ceramic or stone, with quality that's hard to find in new lamps today. Restoring them protects their value.
- A comparable new lamp would cost more than the repair. If a similar-quality replacement costs well over $45, a socket replacement is the clear winner.
- It fits your room perfectly. Finding the right size, style and finish again can take weeks of shopping.
- It's part of a matching pair or set. Replacing one lamp can mean replacing both.
When should you buy a new lamp instead?
Repair may not be the best choice when:
- The lamp was very inexpensive, and a new one costs less than the repair.
- The body itself is badly cracked, broken or corroded through.
- You simply don't like the lamp anymore. That's a perfectly good reason to upgrade!
Not sure which side your lamp falls on? Bring it in. We'll take a look and give you an honest answer, even if that answer is "this one isn't worth fixing."
Is it safe to keep using a lamp with a bad socket or frayed cord?
No. A worn socket can cause arcing and overheating, and a cracked or frayed cord can expose live wires. If you notice flickering, buzzing, a burning smell, scorch marks, or a cord that feels hot, unplug the lamp and stop using it until it's repaired.
Is your lamp flickering? Our guide Why Does My Lamp Flicker? explains the common causes, what you can check yourself, and when it needs a repair.
Can old lamps be updated for LED bulbs?
Yes. A repair is a great time to update an older lamp. A new socket and cord let most vintage lamps work safely with modern LED bulbs, which run cooler and use far less energy. We can also help you pick the right bulb shape, base and color temperature to keep that warm, classic look.
Get a free lamp repair estimate in West Los Angeles
Light Bulbs and More has repaired, rewired and restored lamps for West LA homeowners, interior designers and businesses since 1998. Every repair includes a 1-year parts and labor warranty.
- Visit us: 12234 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm
- Call: (310) 826-0603
- Heavy or hard-to-move piece? We offer pickup and drop-off within 10 miles.
Learn more about our lamp repair services and request a repair →