A
hanging ceiling fixture is
more than simply a light
source. It’s a focal point for
the interior décor of the home.
We recently upgraded a ceiling
fixture with a new chandelier from
Lamps Plus, the nation’s largest
lighting retailer. This lighting fixture
was located above the staircase
we recently remodeled and made
a beautiful “crown jewel” to deco-
rate the space. The homeowner
selected the Lacey 28′′ Wide
Round Black Chandelier to replace
a smaller (and outdated) pendant.
The result was a dramatic
improvement to the look and feel
of the home’s front foyer.Replacing an out-of-style ceiling
fixture not only updates the look of
a room, but the manner in which it
casts light can also dramatically
impact the ambience of the living
space. Hanging fixtures range in
style from elegant chain-mounted
chandeliers and sparkling art-deco
crystal fixtures to modern geomet-
ric wood designs with candle-style
lighting. The available fixture
designs really seem endless.
Regardless of style, a major
concern when selecting a replace-
ment feature is to ensure that the
box, ceiling and wiring will support
the weight of the fixture. For a new
fixture that weighs approximatelythe same as the old one, the exist-
ing electrical box will probably suf-
fice. However, if the replacement
is heavier, the ceiling box may
need to be replaced to support
the extra weight.
Replacing a light fixture doesn’t
require an electrician. Following a
few simple safety guidelines, a DIY
homeowner can replace a fixture
successfully (although the work
should probably be inspected by a
professional, so check with local
authorities to see if a permit is
required).OUT WITH THE OLD
Before making your first move,
turn off the power at the breaker
box. Do this by flipping a circuit
breaker or unscrewing a fuse. Use
a voltage tester to make sure the
power is off.
We wanted the new fixture to
hang approximately at the same
height as the old, so we measured
the old light’s position before
removing it.
When removing the old fixture,
it helps to use a work platform
fastened to a ladder to support
the weight of the fixture while you
remove the mounting screws from
the electrical box. With the screws
out, pull off the box cover. The
wires should be twisted together
and capped with a wire nut.
Before you disconnect any wiring,
a good DIY trick is to take a few
photos at different angles to show
how to reconnect the new fixture
to the house wiring. To disconnect
the old fixture, just unscrew the
wire nuts and untwist the wire
pairs.
Note:If you have aluminum
wiring, you should avoid working
on it and call an electrician,
because special techniques are
required to make the connections.Replace a Hanging Light Fixture
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60 ExtremeHowTo.comBy Matt WeberQuickFixEDIT.qxp_Layout 1 6/24/19 1:13 PM Page 60