Installing a Chandelier

Installing a chandelier can seem like an imposing task but with the help of a partner it will be easier to accomplish.

If your home has a metal box attached to the 2X4 joists in the ceiling then the project will be much easier if not you will have to replace the box. A metal box is needed to properly hang the new fixture due to the weight of the fixture. If you have a ceiling joist where the fixture is, just remove the plastic box and attach a metal box with 2-inch long screws. If you do not have a ceiling joist at the area you want to install the light you will have to add a brace between 2 joists in the attic or crawl space then add a metal box securely to it.

Tools needed:

Phillips flat tip screwdriver

Wire stripper

Electrical tester

Wire cutters

Linesmen wire pliers

Flash light

Ladder (length will vary due to height of area)

Wire nuts (yellow and red colored ones)

Metal 4X4 square box

2-inch screws

2 x4 stud (length will vary depending on ceiling joists

Section of number 12 gauge wire with ground (if no wiring is present)

Measuring tape

Start by turning off the power at the breaker box at the area of the old fixture you are replacing. Have a friend hold the electrical tester near the wiring and when the proper breaker is turned off the testers light will turn off. Unscrew the canopy cover with the 2 screws and slid it down out of the way. Remove the wire nuts after making sure the power is off and remove the wires from the fixture and cap off the ones in the ceiling with the wire nuts. Remove the chain from the keeper on the ceiling box and have a friend lower the old fixture. Remove the keeper and the "spider" that is attached to the ceiling box. Remove the ground wire also. With the flash light check the type of box you have in the ceiling

If it is a metal box then you can skip to the next section. If not then remove the plastic box and install the new metal box. If you need a 2X4 hanger between the joists measure the distance between the 2 ceiling joists and attach the ends with the 2 inch screws at the ends of the 2X4 and attach the new metal box to it.