Bathroom Renovation Made Easy | Useful Lighting Advice | Home and Garden Improvement Tips
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Install Lighting Fixture
install lighting fixture
Frequently Asked Questions
QUESTION:
Can you install a ordinary light fixture onto a recessed lighting fixture can?
I have house with recessed lighting installed and want to install a normal stand-alone light fixture where one of the recessed lights currently is. Is it possible to use an adaptor of some kind to use the recessed lighting fixture, which is already anchored and wired, and attached the external fixture to the recessed lighting fixture? To start from scratch I think I would have to cut up my ceiling to remove the recessed light fixture and re-anchor the new fixture which seems like a heck of a waist of time. Thanks!
UPDATE- I found a company that makes an adaptor that lets you screw in an ordinary fixture into a recessed light housing. The only downside is the stupid little metal plate costs 40 bucks- oh well.
http://www.thecanconverter.com/
Thanks for everyone's help.
Tim
ANSWER:
I've never heard of anything like you are wanting~but it might be out there somewhere:) I wired my recessed lights, and you are right, it would probably be tough to get up in there, put a box in, and rewire for a new fixture. How about a colored flood bulb;) ??
I AM going to watch this though and see if anybody has heard of anything that works~
Good Luck!
QUESTION:
How to install new track lighting and light fixture.?
My husband and I have never installed any type of light fixture before. We just bought a house with a large kitchen. There is only one celing fan in the middle. We would like to put track lighting in by the stove and prep area and some sort of celing fixture over the kitchen table. Is it very complicated to install new fixtures? It always looks easy on HGTV, but I know those are professionals.
ANSWER:
Yes, it can be done all from one ceiling box, but there are problems. I would be concerned about voltage drop and amperage draw. It sounds like an older home. Nobody would put just one ceiling box in a modern kitchen. I'm betting that the ceiling fan isn't on a dedicated circuit. I don't know how many lights you are going to run, but you could easily overload that circuit if you try to light it like a modern kitchen.
Well, anyway, despite those problems, you could do it. Track lighting is basically a semi-exposed rail system that comes with lots of fittings. There are Ls, Ts, and Xs. These fittings go on the ends of the tracks and you can go in any direction you please. I would be a little concerned with the total length of the system and the number of lights you are trying to power, but in theory you could run that stuff all over your kitchen and plug a light in anywhere you wanted it.
Plan an installation, including all fixtures, all fittings, and the total length of the run then call a qualified electrician to inspect your wires for capacity to handle it. He doesn't have to install it, but you are going to need a consult.
--EDIT--
One other thing that you may not have thought about. If you can run off just that one box, all the lights will either be on or off. There is no independent bank control. If you want the light on over the sink, the lights in the breakfast nook will be on too.
QUESTION:
How do I install a ceiling lighting fixture?
I've never wired before, but I'm good at following instruction/direction. I need a small ceiling fixture in my pantry. The nearest outlet is about 5 feet down on the wall. I'd like to install either a recessed light fixture or even a single spot. If there's a website for this, can you direct me?
ANSWER:
I would implore you to call a electrician. There are numerous nuances in a simple job(for a electrician)that a layman would not be able to identify and take care of. Wire stapling distance,penetration of walls and headers,installation of the new fixture box according to weight, and the proper termination of the switch leg,neutral,ground,and hot. Not to mention the wall damage that you might incure opening it up without the experience of knowing which way to route the wire. Do yourself a favor and call a pro.
QUESTION:
Lighting question, no light fixture, need to install only two wires sticking out of ceiling. How do I install
Have an old craftsman home, garden has no lights, nor any light fixture there are only two wires coming out of the ceiling witch are conrtrolled by an on and off switch. How do I go about installing lights? I do believe none of the two wires are for grounding(neutral, not sure).
ANSWER:
With your new light connect the white wires together, the other 2 wires may be different colors but it should be ok as long as neither of them is green...The green wire from your new light can be connected to the box the wires are coming out of(if there is one).
QUESTION:
How do I install a lighting fixture like a chandelier in an area with no hole in the ceiling?
How do I make a hole in the ceiling? and once I do make a hole what electric wires do I look for? I actually have to write about the process so I'm not planning on hiring anyone. If anyone could help me out on this, It would really mean a lot and would be a huge help! Thanks so much.
ANSWER:
It is a bit more complicated than you are saying.
The hole in the ceiling is easy, cut one.
But, you'll need the proper support for the chandelier in the ceiling.
The electric will need to be run from the breaker box to the ceiling, and down the wall to the switch. You can't just pop a hole in the ceiling and grab some wires.
If you are not just writing about the idea of the process, for your own safety, hire an electrician.
QUESTION:
I want to install a lighting fixture in my dining room.?
Can I do it myself by turning off the circuit breakers in the house and matching the color coded wires together? Or is there more to it than just that?
ANSWER:
I've installed many ceiling lights/fans and that's all you have to do, just match the wires, twist them together in a clockwise direction, then screw on the wire nuts (usually enclosed with the fixture) I also like to tape my wire nuts with electrical tape for extra security...
Also, if you don't live alone, be sure to mention what you're doing to everyone, and even tape a "reminder" sign on the electrical box NOT to turn on the power...you don't want to be "surprised" with a nice jolt!
Good luck with your project!
QUESTION:
How do I install a chandelier lighting fixture? ?
I purchased a townhouse and I want to replace the lighting fixture with a chandelier. Please help. Thx
ANSWER:
most fixtures are interchangeable. the round box in the ceiling can be used for many different fixtures. there is a silver rod that that screws into that box and your light fixture screws into that silver rod. you want to be sure that with a chandelier it is secure enough to the stud in the roof to support the weight of the chandelier, that is my only concern. the wiring should be the same. black to black, white to white, etc.
QUESTION:
Can I install UL lighting fixtures in my Candian home?
I am building a home here in Canada, and want to buy lighting fixtures from the US. If a fixture is UL approved, can I still get insurance, etc. if I install the fixture here in Canada.
ANSWER:
I gotta tell ya I can't find the answer anywhere...well an answer that I would put my trust in anyway. I would advise you to call your insurance company..or any insurance company and ask them the general question. You do not want to take a chance with this...so don't take anyones word on here without double checking yourself.
QUESTION:
How do I install a new light fixture where there was not one before?
The room I want to add the fixture to already has a light in the room, its a light/ceiling fan, I want to keep that, and then about 6 feet away install a new fixture to go over my desk. I Googled 'how to install light fixtures' and all I got were videos assuming you knew where the cable was coming from and the hole was already made. Not really what I'm looking for, any ideas how to get this started? btw, I am definitely an amateur when it comes to this stuff :)
ANSWER:
If you are not sure what to do, for safety sake get an electrician.
QUESTION:
If I've never done this, does it make sense to install a new light fixture yourself or hire an electrician?
I've never done anything with electricity before, but I'm considering installing a new light fixture myself. Is this crazy, or is it really a simple thing? This is an older house and I worry not about getting electrocuted, but more about starting a fire later, or that I won't recognize poor wiring that already exists in the house. People say it's really easy to install light fixtures and there's nothing to it. Is that true?
ANSWER:
It is fairly easy to replace an existing light fixture, but it also can be tricky in an old house because the wiring isn't totally standard. You have to pay careful attention to how the old fixture was wired, because the colors may not match up with what is in the printed instructions. You also have to make sure the electricity is OFF when you do the installation, at least at the light switch, preferably at the circuit breaker or fuse box. Since your friends are telling you this is easy, ask one of them who has done it before to help you out.
If this is not a replacement fixture but a brand new fixture where none has been before, you want a professional.
QUESTION:
Is there a tool for cutting a 7and1/8 inch circle in ceiling dry wall to install a recessed lighting fixture?
ANSWER:
Greenlee makes a hole saw for this. However, this tool is dangerous. It will bind on the sheetrock if you don't drill perfectly square. This size hole saw has dislocated my shoulder before.
There are also numerous adjustable diameter circle cutters on the market. You may also trace the outside diameter of the recessed can or make a 7 1/8" diameter template and use a "stab saw" to cut the circle by hand.
The tool I prefer and use daily is a roto zip with the circle cutter attachment. The attachement adjusts to a wide variety of diameters and the roto zip is very easy to control.
When cutting in sheetrock, the dust will go everywhere. A trick I've learned is to cut a basketball in half and slip it over the collar of the roto zip. This will contain the sheetrock dust in the bowl of the basketball while cutting your holes.
If you need further assistance, please visit:
http://electricalblog.gilchrist-electric.com
QUESTION:
How do I install wall lighting fixture near water pipes?
I want to install a wall lighting fixture in a bathroom and have it centered over a mirror. There is a stud behind the sheet rock where the fixture needs to be centered. Copper water pipes run along each side of the stud and connect to the sink below the mirror. I have a metal pancake box but I am concerned about using it in such close proximity to the water pipes. The house wiring is 3 wire (black, white & ground). The light fixture also has a ground wire. Can I use the metal pancake box? It probably would not be touching the pipes but would be within 1/2 inch...maybe less. Should I be using a plastic pancake? Thanks!
My fixture has 4 black, 4 white and a ground wire. Is that too much to cram into a pancake. If so, any alternate recommendation will be appreciated.
ANSWER:
Metal box is fine just make sure to ground it as required, if just to ease your mind you can use a plastic pancake box but theres no requirement for it, I myself have hung hundreds of lights this close to plumbing on metal boxes.
Having that many wires will be to much for this, you will need to caculate the amout of wire inside the box, each #14 conductor will take 2.00cu inches of box fill, #12 will take 2.25cu inches of box fill Count the Grounds as ONE either being #14 or #12 depending on what size wire you have in the box so if you have 2 blacks, 2 whites and the Ground in #14 you will have 10cu inches of needed box space and 11.25cu inches for # 12 wire The Cubic inches of space should be stamped or printed on the inside of the box you are wanting to use.
QUESTION:
How would i install a light fixture in garbage can?
Im using the garbage can to grow some peppers over the winter. How would i install said light fixture and how can i make it plug into the wall? Thanks for your time.
ANSWER:
Check out the link
www.ehow.com/video_4419062_install-light-fixture.html
Good Luck !
QUESTION:
Can I install a light fixture where there is curretly an outlet?
I currently have an outlet in the garage where my garage door is plugged in. I would like to install a light fixture in the garage and use the same wiring as the outlet. Is this possible, and if so how do i do it?
ANSWER:
you can just continue the wiring from the bottom half of the outlet and the current will continue to wherever you want your light . i am assuming you will install a light with a pull switch.
QUESTION:
How do I install a ceiling light fixture if there isn't one there already?
In my living room, there are 2 recessed lighting fixtures to iluminate my fireplace area. The room is kinda dark, even with a floor lamp. I want to install a ceiling light fixture in the center of the room. How do I run electrical to it?
ANSWER:
Answer #1 is mostly right, but if there is space above the room you are in business.
find the studs by an hot out let, and at the celling near the wall drill a very small hole in the celling between the studs with a long bit, leave the bit in the hole or a piece of wire, get in the space above the room and move over 2" over and above the wall and drill a hole through the plate and drop a 3-14 wire down in the wall make a switch box hole above the outlet, take the outlet out "have the electric off" hook into the outlet with the wire now going to the new switch, your wire will be running across the celling to where you want the light, and make sure that the light fixture box is put on the Joyce. if you can do this you will then have bragging rights to all your friends.
QUESTION:
If I have a lighting fixture above a mirror in a bathroom and what I really want is a fixture on either side..
...can I simply open the wall, drill holes in the 2x4's, attach recepticles to the 2x4's, and splice two wires off each of the wires of the fixture that's already there and install the new fixtures? Is it that simple? I've installed new lighting fixtures before and have just enough knowledge to make me dangerous!
ANSWER:
sounds like you have the basic knowledge. just be sure to use the proper wire and proper sizes. what you most likely have to use is a 14-2 wire, available at any hardware store. when you make your splices be sure to use wire nuts and not just tape. what you are doing sounds ok but what will you do with the box where you made your splice? code states that the box must be "accessible", meaning don't drywall over it and make it disappear. put some sort of cover over it or hang a mirror to hide it. if the splice ever goes bad, it can be accessible for a repair. good luck!
QUESTION:
How do you install a light fixture?
I've read and watched videos on installing a new light fixture. It says to match the wire colors. Both of the old wires coming out are beige/tan/whitish. New wires, one black, one white, one ground. There is a green screw for the ground but how do you attach the new wires to the old wire if they don't match color?
ANSWER:
I am under the impression there is not a ground wire to connect to the grounding screw since you said both wires. One of the wires should be black but over time it lost it's color. The reason black should go to black is because the center terminal of the light socket is attached to black. The reason for this is if you are changing a bulb and touch the metal base you will not get shocked because the side of the base is attached to the neutral or white wire. You would need a volt meter to test which is the hot or black wire or you have a 50/50 chance of getting it correct. If one of the wires look darker then the other that is probably the black. I'm not telling you to hook it up incorrectly but the light will work either way.
QUESTION:
How difficult is it to install recessed lighting?
I have experience replacing outlets and basic electrical knowledge . I have a game room that is 21ft L x 14ft W. The room currently has one small ceiling mounted light. The wall panel has 1 free switch and 1 that controls the light. I'm guessing the free switch would control a fan if i were to install a light fixture with fan. I'd like to add 5 recessed lights to brighten the room. Is this job to big to tackle for a novice or can this be a reasonable DIY task? - Thanks
ANSWER:
The act of installing the cans isn't the problem. It is all that goes on before hand that is the real "work".
A) do you have clearance above the ceiling
B) can you accurately locate the centers of the fixtures without being on or too close to the rafters
C) can you "fish" the wires from light to light if rafters are in the way
D) do you know what type of wire to use and how to install it to Code
E) do you need IC type fixtures or not
F) can you read and follow instructions well (no insult intended, but it is a very real question)
Just to name the more common things you need to know in order to install recessed lights correctly and without having to repair the ceiling after wards.
If you have any related experience or better yet know someone who does then this may not be too hard. Other wise, you may do better to hire it out.
Good luck either way.
QUESTION:
How much to have an electrician install a new light fixture?
My condo is open concept, the majority of the space being the "great room" in the center of this room is the sole light fixture, a large ceiling fan located above our living room area. To one side of the room is our dining area and there are no over head light fixtures.. I need a ball park estimate of how much it would cost to install a ceiling fixture so when I get estimates I know a little about what I'm talking about. Thanks
ANSWER:
There is no way for a competent electrician to tell on the internet how much it should cost. However, I would find a licensed, bonded, insured electrical service company that would:
A) Come to your Condo at no charge and.....
B) .give you an upfront quote for the job you want done.
Don't pay for an 'estimate'. Don't ACCEPT an 'estimate'. If they can't QUOTE you a price, upfront, without being paid to do that then move on. A pro can tell you what it will cost total, upfront. That way there are no surprises.
Also, look for a company that background checks their electricians. These guys are going to be in your home with you alone and have access to all your possessions, make sure that's not going to go bad......
There is a company here in town called Mr. Electric of Tucson that does all that. I'm sure there are more too. There are Mr. Electrics all over the US and Canada. They send background checked pros and give free quotes. There might be other too but these guys are the only ones I know in Tucson, AZ that do that. If your in Tucson they can be reached at (520) 795-5940. Google 'Mr. Electric' other places to see if there is one by you.
Hope this helped.......stay safe.
QUESTION:
How do I install and wire a new light fixture if I'm starting with a blank ceiling?
My wife wants a light fixture in where there is not anything old to run off of. How do I run the wire and install the fixture, as well as how do I wire in a new switch?
ANSWER:
Call an electrician. It most places its illegal to do your own electric work without a license and permit.
Or, figure out where you want it. Find the studs, Cut a hole for the switch and one for the fixture. Run a wire from the electric box to the hole you made for the switch, run a wire from that hole to the fixture. You need to make sure you run the wire parallel to the studs if you have drywall up. This will save you from having to drill holes through the studs.
QUESTION:
How do I install overhead lighting in an old house?
I am sectioning off a portion of my living room to create a first floor bedroom for myself. The house is approximately 100 years old and there is no overhead lighting in this area. I would like to install a ceiling fan/light fixture but the ceiling is plaster and there is no access from above to run wiring. Does anyone have any ideas? I thought about creating a tray ceiling and placing can lights around the perimeter maybe?
ANSWER:
Hi Brandi,
Pulling a new electrical run in an older home can be difficult, frustrating and expensive.
The best alternative is the new track-lights. Anyone can install them with the most basic knowledge and a few common household tools.
QUESTION:
How to install hanging light fixture with only black wires and one bare silver wire?
My ceiling box has one each white, black and copper wire. The fixture only has black and a bare silver wire. The rubber part of the black wire in the fixture seems to be connected and you can pull it apart resulting in two black wires with copper in the middle. How to connect these to the wires in the ceiling box?
Used the advice from the first answer. Worked perfectly without killing myself. Thanks for saving me the cost of a pro.
ANSWER:
if it's a simple fixture, it really makes no difference which wire hooks up to which wire in the ceiling box. If you are really concerned, look at the two black wires carefully... you will see one of them has ridges on it... use that as the one connected to the black wire in the ceiling box, then hook the other one to the white wire.
The silver one is ground.
QUESTION:
How do I install a light fixture on a wall?
I live in Jamaica. There is a fixture (if you can call it that) on my wall that has a bare bulb sticking out of it. I want to put something else on the wall that looks more appealing but I want to know if I can do it myself. I have no wiring experience.
Someone at a hardware store told me it was easy and that all I have to do is connect the wires and screw the fixture on the wall. Is that true?
jackofalltradesmasterofnone, thanks for the offer of help. There is an existing fixture but I want to put a nicer one up. How do I get in touch with you? My email address is HmcHistoryMaker@yahoo.com
ANSWER:
are you replacing one, or putting in a new one???replacing is easy, new one is a bit more difficult...i can give you step by step on either...but you have to let me know which...
i emailed you,did you get it???
QUESTION:
How do I install this miswired light fixture?
In the process of removing an old bathroom wall light fixture, I inadvertantly pulled apart all the wire connections. I have three black wires, three white wires, and three bare(I'm assuming ground) wires. How do I reconnect them so that I can install a new light fixture (three wire setup, pos-neg-ground)? I'm willing to get tools to test if required--but I'm completely unfamiliar with the process so a walkthrough from someone experienced would be greatly appreciated!
ANSWER:
If you are not familar with electrical wireing you could get into trouble.But this is the way your ficture was wired.Get a small digital volt ohm meter to check continuity turn power off at breaker for that circuit. next with all wire,s seperated , not touching togather,have some one turn light switch on for you.This way you can isolate light switch wire,s from power and nuteral wire,s that go to other circuits.remember this light sw.wires use black and white from sw. just like power wires. so once you isolate sw.wire this will connect to black wire on light all white wires will connect togather including the one from lite and all bare wire,s will connect togather.If this is not clear enough for you get someone w/electrical wireing experience.Please be carefull.
QUESTION:
How do install light fixture that has a black and white wire the ceiling has ground, red white, black wire?
ANSWER:
Since your home is AC (Alternating Current) the order of connections between your black, white, red white and black does not matter. Your ground wire is quite important where you hook that up. Most likely it is a bare wire or it may be have green insulation on it.
If it were me, ensure you power is off by opening the supply breaker from your electrical panel. If you are going to be working on electrical devices, you should invest in a volt meter. You can get them for around 10 dollars at your hardware store. Check to ensure that the wires coming out of the ceiling have 0 volts (or somewhere less than 5 volts) from the red white wire to the black wire with your volt meter. Besure to also check from the red white wire to ground wire and also black wire to ground wire coming out of the ceiling.
Next, always hook up ground first as a safety precaution. It sounds like you have that part figured out. But if there is no ground wire on the fixture, there is usually a green screw provided with the fixture and a tapped hole on the fixture somewhere to connect the ground wire coming from the ceiling.
Finally, hook the black from the fixture to the black from the ceiling with a wire nut. And hook the white wire to the red white wire with a wire nut. You know the wire nuts are turned properly when the wire pair has a slight twist to them. To know for sure if you wire nuts are secure, give the wires a good tug while holding the wire nut. This will ensure you have a good electrical connection and the connection won't fail causing a possible fire.
As always, if you are unsure, contact a licensed electrician. Always a good idea. Good luck
QUESTION:
I am trying to install a light fixture that has a striped wire and 2 white wires connected...?
So I understand them, but the ones that are coming out of the ceiling are a mess!
I have 3 yellow wires wrapped together, 1 orange wire, and 4 black wires that were not being used in the previous fixture.
Which ones should I connect?
Thanks in advance!
ANSWER:
Anyone who can tell you which wire is which from their computer is not putting your safety first. If you have an electrical tester you can find your hot wire for sure but be careful!
QUESTION:
How much would it be to install a brand new light fixture into the ceiling where one does not currently exist?
Just an approximate amount. We moved our dining table into the sunroom and would like to install a new light fixture in the center of the ceiling and would like to know how much and what the project would entail. Thanks!
no access from the attic =(
yeah i am guessing it will be 0+ since they will have to take some of the drywall and ceiling out and replace it.
ANSWER:
Do you have access to the ceiling from above, such as an attic? If so, piece of cake. Figure 1-1/2 hours labor plus materials. I'd guess 0-125, depending on where you live. If there is no access, you are looking at a lot more. Have a local electrician give you an estimate, as there is no way to tell what obstacles there will be from here. Hope this helps.
QUESTION:
I'm installing a light fixture in a ceiling w/a red, white & yellow wire but no black. How do I install?
The light fixture has a Black, White and Green Wire sticking out from them and I'm working with only 1 switch. Thanks!
There light fixture is from Ikea, no wiring directions.
I tried Black to Red, White to White and Green to Yellow and the light turned on with the switch on the off position. When I turned the switch to on Position, the breaker shut off.
ANSWER:
The Red is a constant hot. The Yellow is the switch leg. White is neutral. Cap the red and tuck it in the back of the box. Connect the white to white and the yellow to the black. That should do it.
When you said the light came on with the switch off that told me you had it wired to a constant hot. When you said the breaker tripped when you flipped the switch that told me you had a switch leg connected to the ground. Dead short. Attach the green wire to any bare wire in the box, the box itself or to the bracket the light mounts to.
QUESTION:
How to install ceiling light fixture?
There are 6 wires coming down from the ceiling: 3 white, 3 black, no ground anywhere in sight. The light fixture has 2 whites and 2 black and a ground. How do I wire this up?
ANSWER:
all black go in black and all white go in white and green or empty wire go in metal ground you do not need ground
QUESTION:
How do I install a new light fixture with old wiring?
My old wiring for the original light in the bathroom (which has only one switch) on the wall consists of 3 sets of wires coming out through the box.
-one with a brown, a black, a ground (bare), and a red wire
-other 2 have a ground (bare), a black, and a brown.
all grounds are connected to the box in the wall.
How can I install my new light fixture which consists of a white, a black, and a ground?
ANSWER:
Connect your ground to the other ground wires in the box. What you are calling brown is most likely the neutral (white) that has aged and discolored. Twist and cap the neutrals together. The black and the red are both hot - so one of them is extra unless it was used for 220v - so cap off the red. and attache the blacks to the light fixture. I know that doesn't look right, but here is why it works. The 4 wire coming into the light box is feeding the power (that 4th wire -red- could have been used to feed another circuit, but is not needed for this light) if you hooked the black to black and white to white of the light fixture it would always be on. Those 3 wires are going to the switch - so you connect the whites - that sends that neutral side of the circuit down through the switch - but you have to get it back up to the light - the only wire to do that is the black which you connect to the neutral side of the fixture.
QUESTION:
What type of lighting fixture (strobe light) that is required by FAA to install on top of high rise building?
what type is strobe light installed on top of high rise building that required by FAA
ANSWER:
They are called obstruction beacons. There are FAA requirements that dictate whether they flash or not. Obviously, the closer a structure is to an airport, the more stringent the requirements are on whether the building needs obstruction beacons or not.
QUESTION:
How do you retrofit existing stage lights to LED Stage Lighting fixture?
I'm in charge of the lights at a community theatre. We are trying to save some money, and I want to install LED Stage Lighting fixture from http://www.stage-lights.com/ProductsType/LED-Stage-Lighting.htm
However, I haven't been able to find any that would fit our fixtures, or would be able to be turned in the correct direction (all that I've been able to find point up, not towards the reflector or towards the stage). We have standard Fresnel and Source 4's.
ANSWER:
I don't think you can adapt old lights to LED. Basically the old lights are designed for the light to be coming from one point. The filament of the bulb. Which is then focused through the lens by the reflector. LED lamps are basically a bunch of little bulbs so there is no single source of light. LEDs are also designed with there own little lenses to focus the light. So if you want to switch you will need to buy all new lights. I suggest you do a lot more research and actually talk to a person at the companies that make the lights.
QUESTION:
how to install hanging light fixture with no color code wiring?
we bought a hanging light fixture. as per instructions, black house wire should be connected to black fixture wire and white with white. But the fixtures wire is the same white color.
ANSWER:
If the wire in the fixture is all white, you can connect either to the black and then connect the other to the white. I have that on a light fixture that is at the top of one of my ceiling fans, and it works great. Hope this helps.
QUESTION:
How do I install a new light fixture?
I need to installing a new ceiling light in the living room. There is an existing single switch on the wall that operates some track lighting in the kitchen. Can I convert this into a double switch and have the other switch operate the ceiling light? If so, what tools do I need to do the whole operation? What kind of romex wire do I need?
I tried searching online but the tutorials weren't that good and I couldn't find anything about the double switch.
ANSWER:
You should have your living room switch in that room not the kitchen( not sure but code may require it) so if they are shared walls why not cut out for a single switch on the opposite side of the kitchen switch they make different retrofit boxes for your application
QUESTION:
How to Install Ceiling Light Fixture?
The wires in my ceiling don't match the colours of the light fixture.
The wires in the ceiling are white, green, red, and one small single orange wire.
How do I connect these with the bare copper ground, black and white wires from the light?
ANSWER:
you'll need to test the orange and black to locate your switch leg if you have one ,green is always ground
white is neutral
black is 120v.
orange is should no be there,it is high voltage color (brown orange yellow gray neutral)
it may be used as switch leg voltmeter test is best...be sure to turn power off when installing after you find which wire is 120v.
QUESTION:
How much should I pay someone to install a light fixture in NYC?
I'm posting an ad on CL and I want to know how much to offer per hour.
ANSWER:
i would pay about 20 that is what i paid here in florida
QUESTION:
how to install a flushmount light fixture.?
I allready have lightbulbs in the ceiling with light coming out of them and everything but there is no fixture over it. It is so bright so i found one at lowes that is a flushmount I want to know how to install it.please
ANSWER:
turn off the breaker to it so there is no power running to the cicuit take down old fixture there will be two or three wires 1 black 1 white 1 green connected with wire nuts unscrew these reattach wires from new fixure make sure you have good connections remount fixture turn on power if unsure of yourself call electrition
QUESTION:
is it hard to install a light fixture. I have taken the old one off but I have no experience on how to do this
can anyone help me.
ANSWER:
Try here-------
http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/home-electrical-lighting
Best of luck
QUESTION:
Can I use the wiring for a bathroom fan to install a light fixture instead?
How do I find out and how do I convert it if it's not the right wiring?
ANSWER:
The wiring comes as a black, a white and a ground or green. Yes, you can convert it. Connect the ground, then the white (neutral) finally the hot (black). Make sure the switch is off before you connect it. You asked only about the wiring?
QUESTION:
Should I install a light fixture without a ground wire?
My wife recently purchased an antique light from the 1920's which I want to replace with a newer one in my 7 year old house. Should I be concerned if this light (because of its age) does not have a ground wire?
ANSWER:
If you have a green or bare wire at the fixture...Attach it to the fixture frame...If not it will work without it.....Be cautious of the old wiring in the fixture..The insulation could be rotten because of the fixtures age...l.l
QUESTION:
What is the best way to install sheetrock on ceiling and cut the holes out for light fixture?
What is the best way to install sheetrock on ceiling and cut the holes out for light fixture? Do you install sheetrock and screw it down away from light fixture then cut out the hole with sheetrock on ceiling?
ANSWER:
I install the sheet with 4 or 6 screws, then cut out the holes with a rotozip. Before I install the sheet, I mark out the location of the center of the hole. It's relatively easy to use the zip and end up with a neat hole for the light. Hope this helps.
QUESTION:
How do you install a light fixture in a bedroom?
ANSWER:
Make sure the power is turned off before you do anything.What you do depends on if you are replacing an existing fixture or putting in a new.
If it is a replacement unscrew it from the wall and carefully note how it is wired.Even making a drawing before unscrewing the wires.Replace the old with the new screwing the wires in as per your drawing .Screw the fixture back onto the wall. Turn the power back on.If in doubt or if you are putting in a new one ask an electrician.
QUESTION:
how to install a light fixture?
I have a 3-wire light fixture to install on a ceiling. The 3 colours are white, black, and copper ground.
On the wall outlet box, there are also 3 wires: black, white and blue. I attach the wires (black-black), white-white, copper, blue.
everything works fine when the circuit breaker is flipped on (the light switch was left on). When I go to turn off the light, the circuit breaker trips and the ground wire becomes scorching hot. What is happening?
ANSWER:
sounds like you may have a three way switch in the wall. when you flip it up it makes the black hot, when you flip it down it makes the blue hot. cap off the blue wire with a wire nut and attach the bare ground from the junction box if the box is metal. if its plastic and you can't find a ground wire coming into the box to connect to then just roll it up in the box because it's not going to do any good connected to a plastic box. if you want to test it you can connect the black wire coming from the light to the blue wire in the box. if the light comes on when the switch is down the you have a three way switch. another way you can do it is take the switch out of the box and take loose the blue wire that is connected to the bare ground up in the light box and connect it to a ground in the switch box.
QUESTION:
is it against building codes to install gas lighting in a home ?
i've seen that home in the late 19th century and early 20th century used gas light fixture to light their homes.
would it be possible to install gas lighting in my house ?
or would it be against building codes in California.
thanks
-Phil
ANSWER:
Wow good question, I was wondering this too when I seen my first gas light indoors, but it wasn't a working one.
But here is a site to answer a few questions.
http://gaslightguys.wordpress.com/2008/10/07/interior-gas-lights/
QUESTION:
Installing light fixture on old work box but there is insulation right behind the wall?
There is a junction box in the ceiling but i'm installing a new light fixture (one that can't be used as a box) so I went to install the old work box and there is insulation right behind the wall. Is it okay for there to be insulation packed against the old work box?
Just trying not to burn my house down. Thanks guys!
the "old work box" is like a junction box and made for installing light fixtures on existing drywall so i'm just looking for help with the insulation being behind the wall where i want to install it
ANSWER:
As long as the wires are spliced in the box and not exposed to insulation, you will be OK. The major concern is heat build up, if this is reasonably safe no problem go ahead
QUESTION:
What kind of lighting fixture would i use for this?
I have a vanity in my room but there is no lighting above it so its really hard to do my hair and stuff. I have a round mirror above my vanity and i need some kind of good source of light to put above it. I have looked at pictures and i cant find any light fixtures that you can just like stick on the wall because there is no wiring or anything there to install a light. Please help(:
ANSWER:
get a china ball and socket kit from IKEA. Put a hook in the ceiling, and hang it from that. Put a 100W light bulb in it, if the fixture is rated to handle it. This will be super cheap and effective, producing a soft, flattering light. Use additional hooks or buy cable staples to secure the cable to the wall, if desired.
QUESTION:
i am trying to install a light fixture that has six wires but only two are coming out of the ceiling?
the fixture that i got has two black wires (that says unswitched hot), one orange( that also say hot), two green and a copper wire.
also one white wire. so there is a total of 7 wires.
ANSWER:
Oh lord. Well what can one say but the obvious,so i will take the quicke. Well tie the blacks and orange together,white to white copper and green wires are ground wires,enuff said
QUESTION:
How do I install a ceiling fixture where there's no existing fixture?
My home has light switches installed in the bedrooms, but no light fixtures. How would I go about finding the wires in the ceiling? Once I do, is there anything I should know? Everything that I see online pertains to replacing fixtures which I've done before but nothing about starting from scratch.
ANSWER:
The switches probably go to outlets for lamps. You would need to run power into the attic, it could be complicated and you may well need an electrician, unless you want to research it all well enough to know what you are doing so you don't burn down the house.
It seems that you could rewire the switched outlets in circuit with the other outlets and run new wire from the switch up through the wall into the attic and over to the spot you want your fixture, put in cross bracing on the wood running across and install a box through the ceiling that you can run your wires through and then hook up the fixture. Kind of advanced if you don't really know what you are doing.
Good luck
QUESTION:
Installing light fixture into wooden beam?
I have a wire running through an all wooden beam, I would like to install a light fixture. I know how to connect a light fixture my only concern is the wire sitting on wood. Do I have to somehow install a box, if so my concern is that the drilling is right in the middle of the beam, the beam is a direct support for the roof. All suggestions are appreciated, would really prefer suggestions from someone I can communicate back with. Thanks!
ANSWER:
some fixtures are direct mount with no box needed, you make up the wires in the fixture itself. You can otherwise buy adapter plates so that you don't have to drill in the middle, just be sure to pre-drill your holes for the wood not to split.
QUESTION:
Scott was watching the electrician install a new light fixture?
Scott noticed that when he was finished, he carefully wrapped some wires with plastic caps and black plastic tape. Select the best explanation of why the electrician would wrap electrical wires with plastic products.
The electrical wires are made of metal, which conducts electricity. In order to make the wiring safe, he would wrap the exposed wire with plastic materials, which are good insulators. This keeps the flow of electricity contained to the light fixture and wiring.
The electrical wires are made of metal, which is a good insulator. The plastic caps and tape are good conductors. This combination will limit the flow of electricity to only the light, the wires, and the home circuit. It will not allow any electricity to flow elsewhere.
The electrical wiring is made of metal, a conductor. In order for the electrical current to flow properly, the electrician would need to place plastic materials, which are good conductors, at the ends of the wires.
It is important to practice good safety measures when dealing with electricity. The plastic caps and tape are good conductors and will prevent someone from getting shocked.
a
b
c
d
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