How to replace a ceiling light fixture in 8 simple steps

SKILL LEVEL: INTERMEDIATE

Replacing a light fixture is one of the most satisfying electrical upgrades and a great way to quickly transform a room. Learn how you can make this home upgrade in 8 simple steps.

Person wearing gloves removes the cover from a ceiling light fixture with a metal trim.

Replacing a light fixture is one of the most satisfying electrical upgrades and a great way to quickly transform a room. Choose a fixture suitable for the amount of light you need. Never boost the illumination by installing bulbs of a greater wattage than the fixture is rated for.

As with any electrical upgrade, shut off the power before beginning and use a circuit tester to confirm the power is off.

What You’ll Need: Circuit tester, small slot or Phillips screwdriver, wire stripper, new light fixture, wire nuts, electrical tape

Step 1: Remove The Old Fixture

Confirm that the power is off by turning the wall switch off and on. The fixture should not light up. Remove the bulb(s) and detach the old fixture from the box. The type shown attaches with a nut and threaded post.

Person wearing blue gloves repairs electrical wiring in a ceiling light fixture.

Step 2: Detach The Wires

Use a bent piece of coat hanger to hang the fixture from the box in order to support it. Unscrew the wire nuts and detach the wire connections.

Hands wearing gloves install or wire a smoke detector on a ceiling, connecting electrical wires.

Step 3: Detach The Strap

Use a screwdriver to remove the old strap from the box.

Hands using a STANLEY screwdriver to install wiring in a ceiling fixture opening. Blue gloves worn for safety.

Step 4: Strip The Wires

With diagonal cutting pliers, nip off the bit of bare wire used for the connection. Strip off 3/4 in. of insulation. Then install the new strap that comes with the replacement fixture.

Hands in blue gloves using a Stanley tool to work on electrical wiring in a ceiling junction box.

Step 5: Connect With Wire Nuts

To avoid straining the connections, temporarily hang the new fixture from the box with the bent coat hanger. Beginning with the uninsulated or green insulated copper grounds, hold the stripped ends side by side and twist on a wire nut, turning it clockwise. Connect the white wire to the white wire and the black to the black.

Person in gloves installs ceiling light fixture, connecting wires to electrical box.

Step 6: Secure The Connections

Wire nuts twist the wires around each other while securing them. Give each wire nut a pull to confirm that the connection is tight. Wrap a couple of inches of electrical tape around the wire and nut to secure the connection.

Person in gloves installing ceiling light fixture, connecting wires to electrical box.

Step 7: Install The Fixture

This fixture uses screws for mounting to the box. Some use a threaded post as shown in Step 1. Start the mounting screws in the strap, position the fixture, and tighten the mounting screws with a screwdriver.

Gloved hand uses STANLEY screwdriver to install or adjust a ceiling light fixture on a white ceiling.

Step 8: Install The Bulbs And Globe

Check the fixture base to determine the maximum wattage bulb that can be installed. After screwing in the proper bulb, restore power and test.

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article disclosure

To reduce the risk of personal injury and property damage, read and follow all related product manufacturers instruction manuals and information before performing any of the applications shown. Some construction-related applications shown may not be allowed in your local area. Consult your local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) before starting work for information on permits, applicable codes, and other regulations. STANLEY disclaims any responsibility for any damage to property or injury to persons as a result of misuse of the information provided.