How to Install a Light Fixture | The Home Depot

Moments in this video

1. 0:33–1:17 Remove Existing Fixture From Light Fixture Replacement, Step 7: Remove Old Fixture

   Before any electrical work, always turn off the power to the circuit at the main electrical panel. Locate the breaker corresponding to the light fixture you're working on (e.g., 'Kitchen') and switch it to the 'off' position. Place a step ladder securely to reach the existing light fixture. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the fixture canopy to the ceiling. Before touching any wires, use a voltage tester to ensure there is no active electrical current. Once confirmed safe, disconnect the existing light fixture's wires from the house wiring. Standard boxes typically have three sets of wires: black or red for current, white for neutral, and silver or copper for ground. Always disconnect the ground wire last. Finally, completely remove the old fixture from the ceiling.

2. 1:17–1:30 Replace Mounting Bracket From Light Fixture Replacement, Step 8: Prepare New Fixture Mounting Bracket

   After removing the old fixture, use a screwdriver to detach the old mounting bracket from the ceiling junction box. Take the new mounting bracket and thread the house wires through its center opening. Secure the new mounting bracket tightly to the junction box using the provided screws. Ensure it is firmly in place as it will support the new light fixture. A helpful tip is to check the weight capacity of your existing junction box; most can hold up to 50 pounds, but heavier fixtures may require replacing the box with a sturdier one.

3. 2:11–2:21 Restore Power and Test From Recessed Staircase Lighting, Step 7: Test the System

   For the final step, return to the electrical panel and flip the breaker switch back to the 'on' position to restore power to the circuit. Then, proceed to the light switch in the room and flip it on to activate the newly installed light fixture. Observe the light to ensure it is functioning correctly and providing the desired illumination.

4. 2:11–2:21 Restore Power and Test From Light Fixture Replacement, Step 12: Restore Power and Test

   For the final step, return to the electrical panel and flip the breaker switch back to the 'on' position to restore power to the circuit. Then, proceed to the light switch in the room and flip it on to activate the newly installed light fixture. Observe the light to ensure it is functioning correctly and providing the desired illumination.

5. 2:11–2:21 Restore Power and Test From How to Remove a Ceiling Light Cover to Change the Bulbs, Step 6: Restore power to the light fixture

   For the final step, return to the electrical panel and flip the breaker switch back to the 'on' position to restore power to the circuit. Then, proceed to the light switch in the room and flip it on to activate the newly installed light fixture. Observe the light to ensure it is functioning correctly and providing the desired illumination.

Guides that use this video

• Light Fixture Replacement
• Recessed Staircase Lighting
• How to Remove a Ceiling Light Cover to Change the Bulbs