Replace a Light Fixture
SKILL LEVEL 3
That out-of-style ceiling light fixture can drag down the look of your whole room. Fortunately, replacing it with a new light fixture can be surprisingly easy.
This project involves working with electricity. If you're uncomfortable with the inherent risk, hire a professional.
3 Skill level
3 out of 5
7 Steps
8 Materials
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Step 2 Remove the old light fixture
Turn off power to the light fixture at the circuit breaker or fuse box. If necessary, use a ladder to reach the light fixture. Unscrew the retaining screws from the base of the light fixture and gently twist to loosen it. Pull the fixture away from the ceiling to expose the wires and then unscrew the plastic wire nuts that connect the wires. -
Step 3 Test the wires
Before touching bare copper wires, use an electrical continuity tester to connect the black and white wires. The tester should display no light, indicating that it's safe to untwist the wires and remove the light fixture. -
Step 4 Attach the new plate
If the new light fixture comes with a ceiling plate, thread the ceiling wires through it and screw it into place. -
Step 5 Connect the wires
Use the wire nuts to twist the white wires together, and then do the same for the black wires. You might have to expose enough wire to twist together by stripping off the plastic casing with a wire stripper. After you connect the wires, tuck them under the new light fixture. -
Step 6 Attach the light fixture
Twist the base of the new light fixture into place and then screw the body of the fixture to the base, following the installation instructions that came with the fixture. Secure the fixture with the retaining screws included with the fixture, then install light bulbs. -
Step 7 Turn on the power
Once the light fixture is securely fastened, turn the power back on at the circuit breaker or fuse box. Then flip on the light switch to test whether the light works.
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Supplies
| Product | Have | Need |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical continuity tester | ||
| Electrical tape | ||
| Ladder | ||
| Light bulbs | ||
| Light fixture | ||
| Screwdriver | ||
| Wire nuts | ||
| Wire stripper | ||
