You'll need basic electrical skills for this project, in order to correctly connect the wires on your new fixture.

 

Found an old fixture you love?
As long as the wiring is modernized
and the right kind for your home,
you can install it yourself.

• New lighting fixture
• Wire stripper
• Screwdriver
• Needle-nose pliers
• Ladder
• Coat hanger or strong cord (optional; see Tips below)

 

Diagram 1

1. Shut off the power to the appropriate circuit at the service panel.

2. Remove the old unit. As you do so, examine how the old fixture is attached. Some secure with bolts to a strap (see Diagram 1); others mount with a hickey to a stud in the center of the box (see Diagram 3). Still others use a combination of these systems. Strap mounting works best with lightweight fixtures.

 

Diagram 2

3. Prepare the new wires. Strip 3/4 inch of insulation from new leads. If wires are the stranded type, twist bare ends slightly (see Diagram 2).

 

Diagram 3

4. Secure the fixture to the ceiling. If your mounting involves a hickey, make sure the wires exit through the hickey's side. Screw a nipple into hickey; thread hickey onto stud (see Diagram 3).

 

Diagram 4

5. Make the electrical connections once you're sure the fixture is mechanically secure (see Diagram 4). Then carefully coil up wires inside the box.

 

Diagram 5

6. Check your installation by turning on the power. If the fixture lights up, shut off power again and raise and secure the canopy (see Diagram 5).

 

Diagram 6

• As you remove the old fixture, take care not to undo other connections that you may find in the box.
• If your new fixture is heavy, you can temporarily support it with a coat hanger or strong cord, as shown in Diagram 6.
• Handle fixtures gently -- most are made of lightweight metal that can be bent easily.