What Is A Light Fixture, And How To Replace It By Yourself?

Do you want to replace your light fixture at home?If yes, you should know what is a light fixture and how to replace it. Changing the fixture is extremely easy, and anyone can do it. With the right steps and knowledge, you can replace the lighting device in 30 minutes. 

We will share information about light fixtures, their replacement costs, and the step-by-step DIY process of installation. After reading this blog, you will be able to replace the light fixture by yourself at home. We will also answer the question of whether you need an electrician or not for this process.

What Is A Light Fixture?

It is an electrical device that has an attachment to the bulb. Every light fixture contains one or more lamps for illumination. These fixtures are mainly of two types. The first one is wired and secured in one place. On the other hand, the second one has a socket that easily replaces it when it gets damaged. 

It also has a switch that fits with the fixture body. A light fixture also has features like reflecting direct light, outer shell, and shades. These electrical devices attach to the wall as well as the ceiling. 

Different Types Of Fixtures For Lighting

There are various types of fixtures for lights available in the market. Moreover, you have multiple options to choose from as per your lighting needs. Here are the different types of fixtures available in the market:

Track Light And Monorail

Track lighting and Monorail are electrical systems consisting of lighting tracks. It has attachable elements in the form of LEDs and bulbs. The device allows you to place the electrical elements wherever you want on the track. Moreover, you can replace the fixture at any time with simple steps.

Recessed Lighting

It is a fixture that attaches to the ceiling. The recessed light doesn’t have any bump on its surface. This light fixture focuses a narrow band of light in one particular direction. So, you can use it to provide a good light intensity in one place. It is commonly used in the kitchen, living room, and bedroom.

Table Lamps

Table lamps are the common type of light fixture used in homes. It has a large shade and high-quality bulbs that provide good light intensity. This light fixture adds an aesthetic feel and is perfect for reading and decoration. In addition, table or floor lamps can be replaced or repaired easily at home.

Chandeliers

The chandelier is a large-size fixture that attaches to the ceiling. The whole body of this lighting fixture has multiple sockets for LED bulbs. The majority of people use chandeliers for decorating their living rooms and halls. However, the replacement of this fixture needs professional assistance. Due to its complex design, it is harder to replace.

Sconces Fixture

Sconces are widely used as a wall-mounting fixture to illuminate a particular area. When you use it for outdoor purposes, the sconces are more likely to get damaged. That’s why these light fixtures need replacement from time to time. Some popular areas of their use are bathrooms, dining rooms, living rooms, and lounges.

Signs Your Light Fixtures Need Replacement

It isn’t easy to find out when the light fixtures need replacement. Most people are confused about whether they should replace or repair their lighting fixtures. If you don’t know when your lights need replacement, here are the signs you need to notice:

Poor Lighting

If your lighting fixture provides poor or dim light, it needs replacement. The main reason behind this is the bulb, but an internal defect in the fixture can also cause it. One of the easiest ways to check it is to replace the bulb. Even after the bulb replacement, if you still notice poor lighting, then the problem is with your fixture.

Consumes More Power

The older model of fixtures consumes more power. As a result, people receive high energy bills. One of the biggest reasons is the outdated bulbs and wires used in the fixtures. Moreover, you can decrease energy consumption by simply replacing your light fixtures. Another advantage of using new fixtures is less impact on the environment. So, the higher energy bills indicate that your light fixtures need replacement.

It Looks Bad With Your Home’s Interior

Lighting products are also used to decorate the space. The type of fixture you use also shows your personality. When you upgrade the interiors of the space, the light fixture also needs replacement. 

For example, traditional lighting fixtures look bad with modern furniture. You can easily transform each room by changing the fixtures. In addition, the right lighting product can accentuate your space with cast shadows.

Broken Fixture

A broken fixture indicates that it needs replacement, not repair. So you don’t have to waste your time and money repairing the fixture. If your light fixture falls accidentally, it may damage internally and externally. As a result, it stops working and rarely works fine even after repair. In such a case, you must replace it with a new fixture.

Cause Safety Risks

It is true that old light fixtures easily short out and create higher safety risks. You should not take any further risk in such a situation. Hire the electrician to replace all the damaged light fixtures and ensure everyone’s safety. We will never suggest you replace the lighting appliance by yourself if it has caused a short circuit in the past.

How Do I Replace The Light Fixture By Myself?

Anyone can replace the light fixture with the help of some basic tools and instructions. This step-by-step guide is for you, even if you have basic knowledge about light appliances. Before we show you the steps, let’s see what you need to complete the fixture replacement process.

Time Required: 1-2 hours (based on your expertise)

Project Type: Do It Yourself (DIY)

Tools you will need to replace the fixture

Here is the list of tools you will need to replace the light fixture:

• Screwdriver
• Wire Cutter
• Ladder (depends on the height of the light fixture)
• Wire stripper
• Wire nuts
• New light fixture
• Work light
• Safety Glasses & Gloves
• Electrician pliers

Read also :- Professional Ceiling Light Fixture Installation, And Its Cost

Step-By-Step Guide On Replacing Light Fixture At Home

Once you have all the required tools and a new light fixture, it’s time to start the replacement process; follow every step shown below to replace the lighting fixture correctly:

Step 1. Turn Off The Power At The Breaker

Before you start to open the old fixture, turn off the power. It is essential to ensure your safety during the process. Always cut off the power source from the breaker rather than the switch. Once you turn off the power, check by flipping the light switch ON and OFF. Make sure there is no power running to the light fixture.

Step 2. Open And Remove The Old Light Fixture

The next step is to open and remove the old light fixture. Usually, the fixtures are attached to the electrical box with the help of screws and bolts. Firstly, loosen the screws with a screwdriver so they open properly. If it doesn’t detach by this, remove the caulk with a pointed object. Unscrew every bolt so the entire fixture comes away from the electrical box.

Step 3. Disconnect The Internal Wiring

Use the current detector to ensure there is no electrical current in the wires. Now, check the connected wires of the old fixtures. You will notice there are three wires in the fixture: Black (hot), White (neutral), and Copper (ground). Next, disconnect each of the wires while holding the old fixture.

Step 4. Assemble the new light fixture

Your new light fixtures have a bracket that attaches to an electrical box. Most fixtures come with a universal bracket that can attach to different electrical box types. In addition, use the screwdriver to fit the bracket in the right position. 

Step 5. Connect the wires

This step connects both ends of the wires with your fixture. The process includes connecting the same color wires. Now, check the insulated coating of the wire with a braided metal wire. Next, use the wire nut to connect both black wires. After that, connect the neutral and copper wires in the same way.

Step 6. Connect The Ground Wire

Connect the two ground wires of the electrical box. Attach the ground wire to the fixture of the box. You will find the small screw(green) in the mounting bracket. Now, use the pliers to create the U-shaped bend around the screw for grounding. Next, loop the bent wire in a clockwise direction and tighten it with the help of a screwdriver. After this step, your fixture is properly wired.

Step 7. Secure The New Light Fixture

Secure your new light fixture to the mounting bracket and electrical box. After that, tuck the wires back into the box and screw the outer covering in place. You can follow the instructions in the manual guide that comes with the new lighting fixture. Next, reinstall the light bulbs in a socket. Finally, secure the final hardware and screen on the fixture.

Step 8. Turn On The Power

In the last step, turn on the power and check if the fixture works properly. If it doesn’t work, then the problem might be in the internal wiring. In such a case, contact the electrician to find the error.

How Much Is Time Required To Replace The Light Fixture?

The total time required to replace the light fixture depends on your expertise. If you have good knowledge of electrical equipment, the replacement process takes approx 1-2 hours. However, when you hire a professional electrician, you can save up to 30 minutes. It is important to determine your replacement needs before hiring a professional.

What Is The Cost Required To Replace The Light Fixture?

Once you know what a light fixture is and how to replace it. The next thing is to determine the total cost of replacing the light fixture. Its cost is the combination of fixtures and labor required to perform the process. A simple fixture is approximately $30, whereas a fancy one can cost up to $200. Here is the replacement cost of the different types of fixtures:

In addition, extra cost includes the accessories like switches, wiring, replacements, junction boxes, screwdrivers, etc. 

How Often Should I Replace The Light Fixtures?

The average life of the light fixture is around 10,000 hours. It is essential to check the fixtures after every ten months. There is no exact time at which you should replace the lighting fixture. The current condition of the electrical item gives you an idea about the replacement. If your fixture has undergone a short circuit in the past, consider replacing it urgently. Moreover, you can also take professional help to determine the right time for fixture replacement.

Should I Hire An Electrician To Replace The Light Fixtures?

Don’t know whether you need an electrician to replace the light fixture or not?

Well, you are not the only one. Most people are confused about hiring a professional for the fixture replacement process. If you are confident in your electrical skill, you don’t need professional help. However, it’s better to hire an electrician to avoid unwanted incidents.

There are many advantages to hiring an expert to replace a light fixture. They have experience in replacing different fixtures, which saves you time. Moreover, there is less risk of fixture damage when hiring an electrician.

Conclusion

A fixture of light needs replacement when it gets damaged. You can easily replace the fixture at home by following the simple steps. So, what is a light fixture, and how to replace it? We share the complete step-by-step process in this post to change the fixture at home. It takes approximately 1-2 hours and involves no risk if you follow each step properly. 

You can also hire a professional service provider to save time and effort. Safety Lamps Repair has all types of fixtures for modern lights available at affordable prices. We also provide our replacement service in NYC with same-day assistance. You can explore the lighting products by visiting our store. 

To discuss your project needs with us, call 212-348-5267. We will be glad to answer each of your questions.