Knowing how to clean and repair a chandelier ensures that the fixture maintains its sparkle and illumination capacity as it hangs in splendor in your entryway or living room. Dust and grime can distort the brilliance and beauty of any chandelier. These fixtures should be cleaned at least once a year. If you have a fine chandelier or heirloom piece, you may want to check with a lighting expert to get some tips on cleaning and repairing a chandelier.

Cleaning Methods

Turn the lights off before you start, so the bulbs are cool. Place an old blanket underneath the chandelier to cushion the fall of any prisms or crystals. Cover the blanket with newspaper, old towels or a drop cloth to catch any dirt, water or cleaning solution. Your step ladder needs to be the proper height and sturdy. When you work with the chandelier, keep it in a stationary position. Do not twist or turn the fixture as you are cleaning it. Generally, there are two methods for cleaning a chandelier: dry-clean or wet-clean. The wet-clean method requires you to wrap each bulb/socket, or "candle cup," of the fixture with a plastic bag. Use a rubber band to secure the bag. Use a mixture of ammonia and distilled water. You can also use one of the commercial chandelier cleaners that are available. Liberally apply the solution to the fixture. Wet the chandelier, but do not wet the wires. Rinse the chandelier by spraying with distilled water. Allow the fixture to drip-dry. Use clean micro-fiber cloths to polish the crystals. Wait 48 hours before you switch on the chandelier. The dry-clean method requires a little more labor and patience. Use microfiber cloths for this project. Spray some glass cleaner on one of the cloths and start cleaning the glass at the top of the chandelier. Work your way around the lamp and down. Work from the inside out and wipe each piece of glass. Polish the glass with a clean microfiber cloth.

How to Repair a Lamp

Making repairs to malfunctioning lamps on your chandelier is not difficult. Shut off the power to the chandelier. Remove the bulb and the sleeve that covers the socket. Remove the wires from the socket termina. Replace the socket with one of the same type and size. To disconnect the wire from the base of the chandelier, unscrew the cap nut, which is located at the center of the fixture. Remove the decorative cap to expose the main conductor. Detach the old wire. To thread the new wire through the chandelier arm, just attach it to the old cord with some electrical tape. Now, pull the new conductor through the arm of the chandelier. Attach the new wire to the main wiring.

Source:

Bella Online: How to Clean a Chandelier Properly

Creative Homemaking.com: Cleaning your Chandelier, Safety Tips