How to Remove a Color Wheel to Change a Fiber Optic Bulb

These artificial trees can be made from plastic with optical fibers throughout and they use one or more light sources, often a color wheel lamp, to illuminate their fibers. When you are putting up your Christmas decorations, you may find a fiber optic tree is a nice change from a traditional pre-lit Christmas tree. And with the pre-lit fiber optic option, you don't need to string lights. Plus, fiber optic trees use less power than traditional Christmas tree lights.

Change your decor with a color-changing fiber optic artificial Christmas tree for an abstract and cozy effect. And just like any other Christmas tree, you can add a xmas tree topper and all of your favorite ornaments. If there are problems with the fiber optic light, these tips can help you troubleshoot the problem and change the fiber optic bulb if necessary.

‌These artificial trees have a multitude of branch tips that light up using multicolored fiber optics.‌ They may have a color wheel lamp at the base with different fiber optic color options, like green, red, blue, white and purple. Pre-lit color fiber optic trees are easy to assemble and are ideal for indoor use in most cases. Some people choose to purchase smaller tabletop trees and use them as decorations in addition to a larger, more traditional Christmas tree.

The color wheels in these decorations have halogen light bulbs, which can burn out and may require replacement. Before attempting to change the bulb, try troubleshooting the issue. Something else may be causing the problem.

• Check the adapter jack connection first to see that it is inserted fully into the base.
• Make sure that the adapter is plugged into the AC outlet and that the power supply is working.
• If all the connections are secure, see if the on/off switch is on.

Finally, take a look at the color wheel. If it is turning, you will probably need to replace that bulb.

Turn the tree off and unplug it from the outlet. Let it cool down for about 15 minutes to avoid burning yourself on contact.

Carefully turn the tree on its side and look for the case on the bottom of the stand. This is where the bulb should be. Check to see what kind of screws the case has and get the appropriate screwdriver. Holding the cover in place, unscrew it and put the screws elsewhere for safekeeping.

Carefully turn the bulb counterclockwise and remove it from the socket. If you do not have a replacement, take it to a hardware store or order another bulb online. Once you get the replacement, screw it back into the light socket and replace the case cover. You can turn the tree right side up, plug it in and turn it back on.

If the bulb is lit but the wheel is not turning, take the top cover off the base. Look for a nut at the top of the color wheel; it could be too tight or loose. Try loosening it or tightening it and then reassemble the base and test to see if it works.

To replace the fiber optic color wheel, put the end of a flathead screwdriver under its edge and apply gentle pressure until it pops out. The bulb is underneath the wheel; do not touch it when changing the wheel. You may be able to order a replacement wheel from the tree manufacturer.

A fiber optic Christmas tree is often easier to maintain than a pre-lit artificial Christmas tree and it offers a different lighting effect for your holiday decor. However, if there is a problem with the lights, do some basic troubleshooting to determine the problem. If necessary, remove the cover from the case at the bottom of the stand to change the light bulb. Your tree will be providing festive lights in no time.