How To Replace Lighting Fixture From Ceiling

Need to replace your old lighting fixture from the ceiling? Here's a simple guide to help you get the job done safely and efficiently.

Safety First

Before starting, make sure power to the fixture is turned off at the breaker panel. Verify that the bulb is cool to the touch.

Tools Required

Stepladder or chair
Screwdriver (Phillips or flathead)
Wire strippers (optional)
Electrical tape

Steps Involved

1. Remove the Fixture Shade: Unscrew the shade from the fixture base.

2. Disconnect the Wires: Locate the wires inside the fixture box. There will typically be three wires: black (hot), white (neutral), and green or bare copper (ground). Carefully unscrew the wire nuts connecting each wire to the corresponding terminal on the fixture base. Twist off the nuts or use wire strippers.

3. Remove the Mounting Screws: Unscrew the screws holding the fixture base to the ceiling electrical box.

4. Disconnect the Fixture Base: Carefully pull the fixture base straight down to disconnect it from the ceiling box.

5. Prep the New Fixture: Strip about 1/2 inch of insulation from the ends of the wires on the new fixture. Twist the bare copper wires together to form a pigtail for the ground wire.

6. Connect the Ground Wire: Attach the ground wire pigtail to the green or bare copper screw on the ceiling box.

7. Connect the Black and White Wires: Wrap the black wire from the new fixture around the black screw on the ceiling box and secure it with a wire nut. Do the same for the white wire and the white screw.

8. Mount the Fixture Base: Fit the fixture base over the ceiling box and secure it with the screws removed earlier.

9. Install the Shade: Screw the shade back into place on the fixture base.

10. Turn on the Power: Toggle the breaker back on and test the fixture to ensure it's working correctly.

Tips

Use caution when working with electrical components.

If you're uncomfortable working with electricity, call an electrician.

Consider the wattage of the new bulb before installing it.

Clean the new fixture before installing it for optimal light output.