How to replace a light fixture
Replacing light fixtures can be really intimidating but it’s a very easy DIY. Here is a how to but if you’re unsure consult a professional. I’m just the sister of an electrician 🤣
Replacing outdated fixtures is a quick and cost effective way to upgrade your home. Here’s the before and after.
Materials
Mounting plate (if new fixture won’t line up with old one)
Drill or screwdriver
Step 1
Cut the power to the fixture by turning off the correct breaker. Remove the fixture shade and light bulbs so you can get at the screws to remove the fixture. It will look something like this with some screws holding it to the mounting plate.
Step 2
Use a voltage tester to make sure none of the wires are live. Then pull out the wires that are up in the ceiling. There will be 3 wires total. Black (live), white (neutral) and copper (ground). Disconnect the wires by unscrewing the plastic nut. Then just unwrap any wires that are still connected. It’ll look something like this. If no copper wire than you’ll have to add one to your junction box with that green screw shown below. I already had one so skipped that part.
Step 3
Get the new fixture ready by using wire strippers to remove the coating so you have about 1” of bare wire showing on your black and white wires.
Step 4
Now bring your new fixture to connect the wires. I connect the copper first and it’s easier to tighten the plastic nut over both ends if you twist the new wire around the one from the fixture. See below. When tightening the nut just twist until it’s snug and tightened all the way. If too loose the circuit won’t be complete and the light won’t turn on. Then repeat for the rest of the wires. Copper goes to copper( or green) white to white and black to black.
Step 5
Stuff the wires back up into the ceiling so you can get the fixture lined up with the mounting plate and use the screws supplied to attach it. Once those are tightened your fixture should feel secure and then just add your shade and any bulbs needed. Turn your breaker back on and let there be light!
