WHEN THE LIGHTS GO OUT MID-PROJECT: WHAT'S YOUR MOVE?
I learned the hard way that phone flashlights are basically useless for anything more complicated than finding your keys. Last month, I was halfway through replacing a bathroom vanity when the power cut out. I tried to balance my phone on the faucet, but it kept sliding off and landing in the sink. Ended up with more frustration than progress.
Headlamps are definitely the way to go, but I never seem to remember where I put mine until after I need it. I actually tried using one of those battery-powered camping lanterns—just set it on top of the toilet tank and it lit up most of the room. Not perfect, but better than nothing.
I get the temptation to just push through with hand tools, but honestly, I’ve found it’s usually not worth the risk. One time I kept going and almost drilled into a pipe because I couldn’t see what I was doing. Now, if the lights go out, I just call it for the day unless I can rig up something safe. Sometimes you just have to admit defeat and wait for the power company.
I’ve been there—old houses and surprise outages go hand in hand. Last time it happened, I was halfway through rewiring a sconce. Here’s my move: I keep a rechargeable work light in the basement, right by the breaker panel. It’s not fancy, but it throws a wide beam and has a hook for hanging off pipes or door frames. If I can’t get decent light on the task, I just stop. Too many hidden wires and weird plumbing runs in these walls to risk it. Learned that lesson after nicking a knob-and-tube wire once… not fun.
I hear you on stopping if the lighting isn’t right—old houses are basically booby traps behind the plaster. I’ve started keeping a couple of those magnetic LED puck lights in my tool bag. They stick to anything metal, which is handy when you’re crawling around weird corners or under stairs. Not perfect, but better than fumbling with a flashlight between your teeth.
Not perfect, but better than fumbling with a flashlight between your teeth.
Been there—pretty sure I’ve drooled on more tools than I care to admit. Here’s my rookie move: I tried using my phone flashlight, balanced on a paint can. Spoiler, it slid off and lit up the cat’s tail instead. Those magnetic puck lights sound way smarter. Ever tried those headlamps? I’m tempted, but worried I’ll just blind myself in the mirror.
Ever tried those headlamps? I’m tempted, but worried I’ll just blind myself in the mirror.
- Headlamps are a game changer—just don’t look up at a shiny doorknob or you’ll get a light show.
- Magnetic puck lights are handy, but they never stick to my old plaster walls.
- Once taped a flashlight to a broom handle for “overhead lighting.” Not my finest hour.
- Cat’s tail as a spotlight... honestly, that’s innovation.
