A chandelier can be installed on a DCL box. But how do you do it? It all depends on the shape of the chandelier and the type of ceiling. It should be noted that installing on a DCL box is quite special. You just need to apply the right techniques and take precautions. Here's everything you need to know.
The specificities of a DCL box
Recent electrical standards require the use of a DCL box for ceiling suspension . This device also meets the NFC 15-100 standard given its safety. All new constructions since 2001 must even be equipped with it. Thus, the addition of a ceiling light and the entire electrical circuit are protected.
If you don't know what it is, it's a simple electrical outlet that you put on the ceiling . It's just smaller. It also includes a recessed housing as well as a socket and a male plug.
Its features make it the ideal tool for placing an imposing light fixture such as a chandelier . That is why it is still equipped with a hook. The main advantage is aesthetic, since the DCL box no longer leaves any visible wires.
Installing a chandelier on a DCL box
To install a chandelier on a DCL box , you have to go step by step. Here they are:
- Secure : disconnect the power at home;
- Prepare the case : remove the socket to recover the plug;
- Prepare the connection : strip the chandelier connections and cut the cable to the desired length;
- Open the DCL sheet : to access the connectors;
- Connect the housing and the luminaire : pass the wires through the hole in the housing and connect them to the DCL plug;
- Re-secure : close the plug and connect it to the DCL box;
- Hanging the chandelier : Hang the chandelier on the hook and hide the wires.
So, it is easy to install a chandelier on the ceiling . You can do it yourself, without necessarily calling a professional.
The right fixings for your chandelier
In general, the fasteners on a DCL box are reliable. They are designed for a given weight. Sometimes the suspension is very large, such as an imposing chandelier weighing several dozen kilos.
In this case you should ask the seller if it is not offered with specific screws or dowels or other fixings. It should be. You will just have to use them instead of the models from the DCL box.
It is also possible to lighten the chandelier . Remove a few extra tassels or a few lamps , for example. Or, remove part of it. If this is a problem, seek professional help.
He will know how to fit the chandelier to the DCL box and the box to the chandelier. Yes, the two elements must be complementary. He can even advise another type of DCL box.
Precautions for a good installation
Before installing your chandelier on a DCL box , you must always turn off the power. Sometimes, the switch is not enough. It is better to turn off the meter.
If it has a hook, you will need to make a hole to attach it. The length of the cable should be equal to that of the hook. You should leave some for possible repairs.
Also, be very careful when connecting the DCL plug. The color of the wires should guide you. Otherwise, a terminal block is always necessary for wire connections . In short, as long as you stay on your guard and take precautions, everything will go well.
Testing after fixing
It is always necessary to do some tests after installation . This concerns the electrical connection, the fixing, the resistance and the brightness. Each thing must be done correctly so that the whole is perfect.
Since the chandelier is often the main decorative piece in the living room , it must be beautiful. It must also be durable since we only touch it to clean it.
So don't hesitate to pull on the cable to check that it is holding well. The lamp can still be subject to a small check via the switch.
This will prove that the electrical connection has been done correctly. You can check after each step before fixing everything also so as not to have to redo the assembly.
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