Wall lights are a great addition to any room, providing both practical and aesthetic benefits. However, installing wall lights can seem like a daunting task, especially if you don’t have experience with electrical wiring. In this guide, we will take you through the steps involved in installing wall lights, from choosing the right fixtures to wiring them safely and correctly.
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
The first step in installing wall lights is to choose the right location for your fixtures. Think about the purpose of the room and consider how the lighting will be used. For example, in a bedroom, you may want to install wall lights on either side of the bed for reading light, or above a vanity mirror for task lighting. In a living room or dining room, wall lights can be used to create mood lighting or highlight artwork.
Once you have decided on the location, measure the height at which you want to install the fixtures. Wall lights are typically mounted 5 to 6 feet above the floor, but this can vary depending on the height of your ceilings and the size of your fixtures.
Step 2: Choose the Right Fixtures
Once you have chosen the location and height for your wall lights, it’s time to choose the right fixtures. Consider the style of your room and choose fixtures that complement your decor. You will also need to choose the right size and shape for your fixtures, depending on the size of the wall and the purpose of the lighting.
When choosing fixtures, it’s important to make sure that they are compatible with your electrical setup. Check the specifications of the fixtures to ensure that they are safe to use and that they will work with your home’s electrical system.
Step 3: Turn Off the Power
Before you start installing your wall lights, it’s important to turn off the power to the area where you will be working. This will ensure that you don’t accidentally electrocute yourself or damage your home’s electrical system.
To turn off the power, locate the circuit breaker that controls the area where you will be working. Flip the switch to the off position, and then use a non-contact voltage tester to make sure that the power is off.
Step 4: Install the Mounting Bracket
The next step in installing wall lights is to install the mounting bracket. This is the bracket that will hold the fixture in place on the wall. Start by removing the old fixture, if you have one, and then attach the mounting bracket to the electrical box on the wall.
Make sure that the bracket is securely attached to the electrical box and that it is level. Use a level to check that the bracket is straight, and adjust as needed.
Step 5: Connect the Wires
The next step is to connect the wires. Start by identifying the wires coming from your electrical box. You should see a black or red wire, a white wire, and a green or bare wire. The black or red wire is the hot wire, the white wire is the neutral wire, and the green or bare wire is the ground wire.
Take the wires coming from the fixture and connect them to the corresponding wires in the electrical box. Use wire nuts to secure the connections, and then tuck the wires into the electrical box.
Step 6: Secure the Fixture
Once the wires are connected, it’s time to secure the fixture to the mounting bracket. This may involve attaching screws or other hardware to hold the fixture in place.
Make sure that the fixture is level and secure, and that all screws and other hardware are tightened.
Step 7: Turn on the Power
Finally, it’s time to turn on the power and test your new wall lights. Flip the circuit breaker back on, and then turn on the switch that controls your wall lights.
If the lights don’t turn on, turn off the power again and double-check your wiring connections. Make sure that all connections are secure and that there are no loose wires.
Installing wall lights may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be a straightforward process. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can safely and securely install wall lights in any room of your home. Remember to always turn off the power before attempting any electrical work, and if you’re unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to call in a professional electrician.
