Do - It - Yourself   Lighting Fixture Installations

        This page covers the installation of standard "surface mounted" lighting fixtures to an existing ceiling lighting outlet box. Other types of lighting fixture installations can be discussed through e-mail.

Installing Lighting Fixtures -

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.
 

I'll be right there!