DO - IT -
YOURSELF
LIGHTING
FIXTURES REPLACED
"YOUR ONLINE CATALOG OF SERVICES
& INSTALLATIONS"
This page covers the installation of standard "surface mounted"
lighting fixtures only. Other types of lighting fixture
installations can be discussed through e-mail.
LIGHTING FIXTURES REPLACED -
To replace an existing lighting fixture we recommend that you
purchase a similar type or style (for an easier job) and have it
ready for installation when you're ready to remove the old
one.
STEP 1. Be sure the power is turned off to that circuit (or shut
all power off).
STEP 2. To begin removing the existing lighting fixture, remove
any glass and light bulbs first. Then look for the mounting
screws (normally 2 screws are used to attach it to the wall or
ceiling) remove them and let the fixture hang softly from the
wires.
STEP 3. Take notice to the two wiring connections. The fixture
wires (flexible, stranded) to the outlet box wires (harder,
solid) these same wires will be used for the new fixture ( other
wires in the outlet box do not matter and should be left alone),
remove the wire connectors (wire nuts) and the ground wire (if it
exists) and you're ready for the new fixture.
NOTE - If the existing wires have insulation cover that is
crumbling apart an electrician should be brought in to complete
this job!
STEP 4. Assemble the new fixture as per the instructions in the
box, but leave the glass and bulb(s) out until completion.
STEP 5. Remove the old mounting hardware, and install the new
mounting hardware to the same screws. If there is no outlet box
there, we recommend one be installed and properly supported.
Always keep in mind that all electrical wiring should be
contained within metal when completed. STEP 6. Wiring connections
are the most important concern now, Wires must be stripped (on
both sets) about 1/2" to 3/4" long. When the wires are joined
together (to make the connections) the insulation cover of the
wires should match up and the copper ends of the wires should
match up. Use only spring insert type wire nuts (look for the
metal spring inside) and turn clockwise on the wires as many
turns as it takes to "tighten up". If it does not tighten up you
must separate the wires and start again (sometimes the stranded
wire separates from the end of the solid wire inside the wire nut
and wraps around loosely). The copper of the wires should only be
visible inside the wire nut when you are done and should not be
able to pull apart easily. Attach the ground wire securely to the
outlet box or mounting hardware.
STEP 7. Install the fixture with the mounting screws. Sometimes
the new screws may be too short or too long, this is a problem
all electricians face also. Make what ever adjustments, cuts or
replacements to the screws you need for a proper installation.
Make sure no wires are crushed between the fixture and the
surface.
STEP 8. Install bulbs (take notice to the wattage limit, it
should be labeled) and any glass as per the fixture
instructions.