How to Install a Ceiling light
02393 960142
Do you know how to install a ceiling light?
Maybe yes maybe no. If you don’t, there is no need to worry as we will show you the way step by step. And if you have done it before, still read on, for there is a chance that you may have been overlooking a step or even putting yourself at risk.
The ceiling light is both functional and ornamental. Maybe you have the standard single pendant or have opted for the more fancy types. Whichever the type, they all follow the same basics and principles when it comes to installation. A time will come when you need to replace the existing one or install a new unit. The current one may have burned-out, lost its appeal due to aging or wear& tear, or won’t look fancy anymore as new trends emerge. While it may look simple and straightforward, installing a ceiling light needs to be done right. Failure to do so may cause injury, deliver bad results, or interfere with the wiring.
1. Identify the Desired Light
The first step is identifying your desired light. You may prefer a classic type to match your Edwardian or Victorian style home or will go for contemporary style for your modern-looking apartment. It always helps to first have a look at the various options and match them to your individual taste or home design. Ceiling lights have become more diverse. However, people also pay attention to the energy efficiency, quality of light, durability, cost, and easy maintenance. LED, Halogen, and florescent are some of the popup choices.
2. Gather the Necessary Tools
After verifying the kind of light you will install, and the exact location, you will need to gather the necessary tools. The nature and number of the tools are influenced by the lighting fixture design, location, and personal preference. You will need a screwdriver (flat or star), wire cutter or pliers, a power tester/ socket tester, a ladder, table or chair, drill, goggles, and gloves (optional).
3. Safety First
Before we proceed, we need to warn you that electricity is risky and can kill. Before handling it or related accessories, you need to put SAFETY FIRST. This entails, ensuring there is no live power, keeping the area clear and free of obstacles, using a firm and stable support (chair, desk, and ladder), relying on quality and safe tools, and being very alert while working. You should also avoid working while tired or intoxicated as this may undermine your judgment.
4. Switch off the Power
One mistake people make is simply switching the light of from the wall switch. You need to go a step further and kill power from the mains. And to confirm that no power is flowing, use a voltage tester on the sockets. Remember, to always use a high-quality tester and use the right technique. You can lock the breaker or attach a note to alert another person who may turn it on without your knowledge.
5. Identify the Wires
Identify and familiarise with the wiring. The UK uses 220-240 Volts, 50/60 Hz. Red or brown wires indicate live (L), blue or black are for neutral (N), while yellow or yellow with green is the earth also known as ground. The lighting fixture will also have the parts denoted by the lettering or symbols.
6. Install the Ceiling Light Holder
The ceiling light/bulb is found inside a housing. You can go for low voltage units which usually come with pins or high voltage lights that feature pegs. The earlier type (pin) is powered via transformer found in the fixture or inside the ceiling while the latter (high voltage) works directly from the mains. A flex is designed for light fixtures and bulbs whereas heavier units (more than 2kg) should be harnessed with chains.
7. Attach the Wires to the fixture
After passing the wires through an opening inside the fixture and fitting it on the roof using screws, the wires are then linked to the identified points. A screwdriver is used to tighten the points while power drill helps in drilling holes where screws will pass through the fixture to support it.
8. Insert the Bulb
Finally, insert the bulb into the socket. The common bulbs are the push-and-twist and screw type. The first step simply requires the bulb to be pushed in and turned little while the other requires being rotated/ turned clockwise a number of times. It’s always important to make sure it fits well and won’t become loose due to vibrations.
9. Switch on Power
Confirm everything is in order; no exposed wires, the fixture, and bulb are tight, and it is properly aligned. Step down from your ladder, table, or chair and turn power on from the mains. Proceed and switch it on. You should expect good illumination and some reason to pat yourself on the back. Of course, don’t forget to cleanup!
Conclusion
You have learned something new and may feel a bit confident to do it yourself. Or maybe you have discovered that you have been doing it the wrong way. For instance, you simply turn off the lights via the socket and never confirm with a tester, or you are using flex to support bulbs and shades that weigh more than 2 kilograms. We must admit that the installation isn’t a “walk in the park” especially for newbies.
Rather than stressing yourself or risking your life through an electrocution, why don’t you let the professionals handle the task?
At Electrician Portsmouth UK we offer different kinds of electrical services including ceiling light installation. We are a recognised electrical firm in the UK that is registered with the authorities and accredited to leading organisations. Our firm possesses lots of hands-on experience from having delivered this service for many years. We also pride on an experienced, devoted, and qualified team of electricians who will go out of their way to ensure you get the best service.
So, how about contacting us via phone or website?
02393 960142
You can also ask for a free quote on any service including installing ceiling lights.
