You’ll wonder why everyone doesn’t do this themselves.
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What you'll need:
TOOLS
Screwdriver
Non-contact voltmeter
Wire stripper/cutter
Ladder
SUPPLIES
Ceiling light
Light bulb
Electrical tape
Wire caps
Whether it’s a flickering light or a drab fixture, an old ceiling light can dim the mood. The good news is that installing a new ceiling light with existing wiring is a relatively straightforward DIY project. We’ll go through the steps for removing your old ceiling light and installing a new one so you can bring the sparkle back to any space at a great price.
Turn off the power: Head to your breaker box, find the switch for the fixture you’re working on, and turn off the power to that room. If there’s anyone else at home give them a heads up not to turn it back on until you’re done.
Remove light bulbs and covers: The easiest way to remove a light fixture is to start by taking off smaller parts like the light bulbs and covers. It reduces the overall weight and minimizes the risk of anything slipping off and breaking.
Unscrew the old fixture: Unscrew the mounting plate and crossbar that keep the fixture attached to the ceiling. It’s best to do this with a helper—have them hold the fixture and gently lower it while you work the screwdriver.
Test the wires: Using your non-contact voltage detector, gently touch the tip near each wire that connects to the fixture. Make sure the light switch is turned on for this (if you’re not sure, run your detector twice with the switch in each position).
Detach the wires: Once you’re certain there’s no power to the wires, unscrew the cap that covers the connection. It’s a good idea to take a quick reference picture so you know how the fixture is wired, then unwind the wires to completely detach the old ceiling light.
Once you’ve removed the old fixture, installing a new light fixture is pretty straightforward—for the most part, you’ll just follow the same steps in reverse.
Prepare Your Hardware on the Ground
The best way to avoid sore arms is to assemble as much of your ceiling light as you can before you start the installation. This is also the time to make sure the wires are fed through the mounting hardware as well as to align the mounting plate and crossbar.
If you have a hanging fixture, you can also adjust the hanging length (but don’t cut anything until it’s up and you’re sure it’s hanging just right).
The wires on your new fixture will likely have a protective coating. Using a pair of wire strippers, remove about an inch of this coating, so you can easily connect the wires once you lift up the fixture.
Attach the Wires
Your ceiling light should come with an instruction manual that gives guidance on how to match the wires. A general rule is that wires of the same color go together—connect black to black and white to white. The grounding wire is usually green and will connect to the grounding screw (generally green or copper) on the ceiling mounting bracket.
Twist the exposed wire on the ceiling fixture and your new ceiling light. Add the wire caps on the top as well as some electrical tape over the caps if you want extra protection. Tuck all of this into the light’s junction box to keep it tidy.
Test Before You Attach the Fixture
Now that the wiring is connected, screw a light bulb into your new fixture and turn the power back on. Test that the light turns on. If it doesn’t, you can turn the power back off and check for any visible loose connections, or call in an electrician if you’re not sure what the problem is.
Once you’re done testing, turn the power back off. Although you won’t be directly handling wires, it’s always better to be safe when you’re working with electricity.
Attach the Fixture
Photo: JU.STOCKER / Adobe Stock
Have your helper hold the ceiling light in place while you screw in the crossbar and mounting plate. Now you can adjust any hanging elements, put on the light cover, turn on the power, and enjoy your new ceiling light!
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
The cost to install a light fixture can range from $90 to $230 for ceiling lights, so a DIY job can be worth it if you feel confident in your skills. Installing a ceiling light on your own can be an easy DIY or a complicated safety hazard—it all depends on your existing wiring.
If you’re planning to install a ceiling light without existing wiring, you’ll need to bring in a pro. They can find the wiring in your walls and ceiling and run it to the new spot, then install a junction box so you can connect the ceiling light.
Many older homes have outdated wiring systems that aren’t compatible with new lighting fixtures. If your house was wired before 1985, there’s a chance that new fixtures can draw too much power and risk overheating the old wiring, posing a fire risk. It’s recommended to have older wiring inspected for safety before you install any new fixtures. Call in a local light fixture company near you to make sure your new fixture is compatible with your wiring or that it’s installed quickly and safely, so you don’t have to worry about any fire hazards or electrical concerns hiding under the surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
A ceiling light will usually have two or three wires: black, white, and sometimes green. Black wires are positive, or hot, while white wires are negative, or neutral. The green wire is the grounding wire.
When you’re wiring the light, connect black to black, white to white, and green to the grounding screw.
Most ceiling light fixtures only have a black, white, and green wire, but in some cases, you’ll also find a red wire in the box. This is a second hot wire, like the black wire, and is included for ceiling light kits that have a fan.
Mika is a professional writer with a knack for home improvement projects, which she always tackles with an eye to art and design. She loves a good renovation and upcycle, and believes that there’s always a way to reinvent your home.
Mika is a professional writer with a knack for home improvement projects, which she always tackles with an eye to art and design. She loves a good renovation and upcycle, and believes that there’s always a way to reinvent your home.
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