One easy way to transform a room is to change up your lighting fixtures. Not only will an updated light fixture change the aesthetics but a new lighting arrangement can also change the overall ambiance. From chandeliers and pendant lighting to track lighting and wall sconces, many stylish options are available. Once you’ve chosen your new piece, it’s time for the installation. If you’re unsure about changing a light fixture, consider hiring an electrician. However, if you have basic electrical skills and the right tools, you can install a light fixture alone. Remember to carefully read the fixture’s manufacturer’s instructions and understand all steps before beginning your project.
1. Disconnect the Power
The first thing to do when completing any project connected to electricity is to turn the power off. Check the electrical circuit panel and locate the circuit breaker that controls the room you will be working in. Switch this circuit off. Verify the power is off by using the circuit tester. Ensure that the light switch for the light fixture is off. Wait to restore the power until the project is complete.
2. Remove Any Decorative Pieces
If there are detachable parts on the light fixture, remove them next. This includes shades, light covers, and light bulbs. Often, a decorative plate will cover any exposed hardware on the wall or ceiling. Unscrew this plate to access the wires.
3. Disconnect the Wires and Remove the Fixture
Once you remove the decorative portions of the light fixture, you will likely see the wiring that has been capped off. You should see white wires, black wires, as well as green or copper wires. Use a voltage tester next to make sure that there is no current. Unscrew the caps or connectors carefully, and disconnect the wires from the fixture. Now the mounting bracket can be unscrewed from the ceiling fixture box in order to remove the old light fixture.
4. Measure, Cut Wires
Before installing, you need to measure ceiling-mounted light fixtures that hang, such as chandeliers or pendant lights. For lights that hang over tables, 30-34 inches above the table is typically considered comfortable. Once measured, you must cut and strip the wires, but leaving an additional eight or ten inches to the hanging length is recommended. Finally, remove approximately one inch of coating from each wire with wire strippers.
5. Switch the Hardware Plates
Remember to thoroughly read through the instructions that were included with the light fixture. It likely came with a new hardware plate that will be used to replace the former plate. You will attach the new mounting bracket to the ceiling box. Insert the wires through the mounting plate to ensure you have access to connect them to the new fixture.
6. Connect the Wires
When connecting the ceiling wires and the fixture wires, it is white wire to white wire and black wire to black wire. Twist the frayed threads on the fixture’s wires to the ceiling wire, and finish by topping it with a cap. A grounding wire, usually green, is to be connected to the grounding bar by a grounding screw. If you see only a green screw, this is where you will connect the green wire. Alternatively, the green wire may connect to a copper wire from the ceiling’s electrical box.
7. Install, then Assemble the Light Fixture
After connecting the wires, tuck them inside the electrical box. Follow the assembly instructions for the light fixture to install it. Install light bulbs, ensuring they are the correct wattage.
8. Turn Electricity On
Once you have finished installing the assembled light fixture, you can restore the power at the circuit box. Check that your new fixture is lit up! If by chance the light does not come on, turn the light switch and circuit back off and return to Step 6. Often, issues happen when there is a connection issue with the wiring.
If you are looking for lighting in Kearney, the professionals at Builders Kearney can help you choose the perfect fixture for your room. Reach out today to learn more!
