How to Install a Hanging Light?

Follow these instructions on how to install a chandelier, pendant, or flush/semi-flush mount.

What You Will Need

Phillips head screwdriver
Flat head screwdriver
Wire caps
Electrical tape
Wire stripper
Safety glasses
Wire connectors
Friend to help lift the light
Step stool or ladder
Lightbulbs

Step 1: Turn Off Power
Find your electrical circuit panel and turn off the power to the room by switching off the circuit. If the circuits in your panel aren’t labeled, switch on the existing lights in the room, and switch the circuit off until the correct room's lights go out. Be sure to turn off the light’s wall switches off as well.

Step 2: Remove the Old Fixture
If you’re replacing an old fixture, remove the cover, shade, or mounting plate, then detach all the current wire connections. Remove the lightbulbs, then remove the base/trim from the old fixture. You’ll have your hands full here, so have your friend nearby to help hand you things while you’re working!

Tip!

If you are installing a ceiling light for the first time rather than replacing an old fixture, consult an electrician. They’ll need to find a nearby power source for your new light to attach to.

Step 3: Secure Screws
Check the stability of your current electrical box and mounting bracket where the fixture will be attached. If the screws feel loose, tighten them using your screwdriver.

Step 4: Connect Wires
It’s important to follow your product’s specific manufacturer instructions for matching the wires on your new fixture. Generally, wires of the same color connect to each other – so the black wires connect to each other and the white connect to each other. The grounding wire, which is typically green, connects to the grounding screw on the grounding bar. Use your wire stripper to remove about an inch of the protective coating on the new light fixture’s wires. Wrap the bare part of the fixture wire to the bare section of its corresponding wire. Then screw on the wire connectors and connect the grounding wire. For added protection, wrap the wire caps in electrical tape.

Step 5: Secure the Base
Bundle the wires into your light’s electrical box. Use the hardware that’s included with the light fixture to attach its base to the electrical box.

Step 6: Install Bulbs
Use the recommended wattage when choosing lightbulbs for your light fixture. Consider LED bulbs for better efficiency and reduced bills.

Step 7: Attach Trim and Cover
Install the trim and cover that came with your fixture. 

Step 8: Turn on Power
Test and make sure everything is working properly by turning on the power at the circuit board and the light switch. You did it!