Replacing A Lighting Fixture

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Step

Step

First, shut off the power to the appropriate circuit at the service panel. Before removing the old unit, note assembly. Strap mounting works best with lightweight fixtures. Take care not to undo other connections you may find in the box. Handle fixtures gently -- most are made of lightweight metal which can bend easily.

Strip 3/4-inch of insulation from new leads. If wires on the new fixture are the stranded type, twist bare ends slightly. If your fixtures are the heavy type, you can temporarily support them with a coat hanger or strong cord.

Note the colors of the wires on the new fixture, and from the ceiling mount. Connect the green wire (ground) first to the green ground screw. Then connect the black (hot) wire to black wire in the ceiling; twisting the wires together in a clockwise position. Next, the white (neutral) to white wires. Use appropriate screw-on plastic caps to secure the wires. I like to add a small piece of electrical tape to the plastic caps, in case the wires become undone when pushing them back up into the ceiling.

Replacing an old fixture usually takes a few minutes, if you have the right hardware. Examine how the old fixture is attached. Some secure with bolts to a strap; others mount with a hickey to a stud in the center of the box.

Step

Carefully coil the wires inside the box. Check you installation by turning on the power. If the fixture lights up, shut off the power again and raise and secure the canopy.

related video: how to replace a light fixture

How-to replace a light fixture in your home.

Materials:
1. Wire stripper
2. Screwdriver
3. Needle-nose pliers
4. Ladder

Time: 30 Minutes

Skill: DIYer

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Replacing A Light Fixture