This week I tried to install Sunco BR30-16W-4K, 4000K, 1600 lumens flood lights in the cathedral ceiling of my computer room which has a ceiling up about 16 feet from the floor. I tried to use the usual pole with the suction device on the end but the suction did not work because the lens on these lights has a plastic orange peel like surface which prevents suction. So I attached another device to the pole which was a “grabber” (I got at Lowes) with fingers that fit all around the flood light. This worked for screwing it into the socket, but I could not get the “grabber” to release; by pulling the pole to release, the can fixture in the ceiling pulled out of the ceiling drywall about 2-3 inches so I was unable to release the “grabber” from the flood light bulb. What kind of device should I use to remove and replace these flood lights?
Normally those grabbers designed for ceiling floodlights will simply slide off the bulb once the bulb is fully screwed into the fixture.
What you found out is that whoever installed your home’s ceiling light fixtures, did so without properly securing them between the ceiling joists, which is why the “can” was pulling out as you tried to pull the grabber off of the bulb.
What I would recommend you doing is getting a 12’ step ladder from a neighbor, or simply buying one from Home Depot, etc. We bought a 12 footer for our high ceiling spaces and have found it indispensable and worth the cost and handling. I hope that helps!
Knotsomcuh - thanks for the feedback. I am aware of the ceiling cans installation problem but can’t do much about it now. I have a 16 ft ladder but at 77 yo it would be unwise for me to climb up there. This is the reason I’m trying to find a pole device solution.
Other than having someone else who can safely climb the ladder, which you would have already done, then all I can think of is pressing one of the rubber suction cups included in those “bulb changing kits” against the rim of the can while pulling the grabber device off the bulb. Of course that assumes you have a second threaded-end extension pole and a helper.