I have a lamp that no longer works. I've tried replacing the bulb, but that doesn't do it. Any suggestions? — B.R., St. Louis

Your lamp issue should be one you can fix, but first let's start at the beginning. Make sure that the outlet the lamp is plugged into is working. Get another plug-in fixture or appliance and plug it into to the socket. If that fixture doesn't work, then you've got a bad plug.

If the outlet is working, take a light bulb that you know is good and try it in the lamp. It is possible that you just have a batch of bad light bulbs. If it isn't the outlet or bulb, then you've verified it is something in the lamp.

Assuming that the lamp has an incandescent light bulb, and not a halogen light bulb, the problem is probably the socket. Replacing the socket is usually an easy fix, but before you do, let's try one more thing.

Unplug the lamp, then remove the bulb. Look into the socket where the bulb was, and at the bottom, in the center, you'll see a small metal tab. This tab touches the base of the light bulb, but sometimes it gets smashed down too far and won't make contact with the bulb. Using a screwdriver, bend the loose portion of the tab up slightly. Screw in the light bulb and see if it works. If not, you'll have to replace the socket.

Again, be sure the lamp is unplugged. There is usually a decorative brass outer shell that will simply pull up and off the socket and will expose the lamp wires. Using a screwdriver, loosen the screw where the wires are attached. The socket should then be free. Replace the new socket just like it was. It doesn't matter which wire goes to which screw. Note: If you had a three-way socket and bulb (low, medium and high), you'll have to replace it with a three-way socket if you want to keep that function. If you only want the light to go on or off, then a two-way socket is fine.

MONTHLY MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

— Disconnect your yard hoses from faucets before temperatures start to freeze

— Reverse ceiling fans

— Check your attic for adequate insulation depth (minimum 6 inches)

— Adjust the timers on your yard lights for earlier dusk

— Consider adding new exterior lighting if necessary

— Change your smoke detector batteries

— Schedule any outdoor projects you want completed before cold temperatures set in

Steve Cloninger is the owner of Get It Done Home Repairs & Maintenance. Visit his website at getitdoneinc.com.