Installing a new pendant light can often be as simple as taking down an old light fixture and hanging a new one. This quick project can make a refreshing upgrade, especially when paired with other small changes, like freshly painted walls.
Pendant lights are particularly easy for homeowners to replace because they are not very heavy (with the exception of large chandeliers) and they often use the existing junction box in the ceiling.
Since they hang from a canopy, the light fixture can be held up by a craft hook to give you freedom to work on the wires before installing the cover.
1) Remove the old lamp.
Using a suitable screwdriver, remove the screws holding the lamp housing. Keep one hand on the light fixture as you remove the last screws to ensure it does not fall out.
2) Note and mark the wire connections.
The light fixture must be connected to three wires:
- The ground wire (usually black or red ).
- The neutral wire (usually white or gray ).
- The hot wire (usually green or bare copper ).
Note which wire from the ceiling is connected to the black wire from the fixture, as this indicates which wire is "hot." Also note which wire is connected to the white wire from the fixture, or "neutral" wire. You'll want to duplicate this when you attach the new fixture .
3) Disconnect the wires.
Start by disconnecting the hot wires, then the neutral wires. Disconnect the ground wires last.
Once the old fixture is free, set it aside. Remove the mounting plate or hardware.
Using a wire stripper or combination tool, strip the insulation from the wire, if necessary, to expose about 1/2 inch of wire.
4) Install the mounting bracket.
Your new light fixture should have a mounting bracket, plate, or strap. Attach it to the junction box using the screws provided. Use a level to make sure the mounting bracket is level.
5) Check the suspension height.
Place your new light fixture in place and measure the height. If the final result is too low or too high, loosen the cover's locking screw and adjust the cord to the desired length.
6) Secure the wires.
Examine the wires of the appliance. If necessary, strip the insulation from the wires, leaving about 2 to 3 cm of bare wire on each wire.
Lift the fixture again. If possible, have someone help you hold the fixture while you attach the wires.
Connect the ground first, then the neutral, and finally the hot wire. Twist the bare wires together and secure each set with wire nuts at the ends.
7) Close the junction box.
Once all wires are securely connected, secure the junction box cover using the screws provided.
Carefully tuck the wires into the box, making sure they are neat and that no wires are pinched or sticking out of the lid.
8) Test the light.
Attach the lampshade cover, if applicable, and use a bulb of the correct wattage for this fixture. Turn the power back on and verify that the light works.
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