6 Tips for Wiring a Fluorescent Lighting System

Many people choose to replace their old light fixtures with a fluorescent lighting system. This type of lighting is a great way to have shadow-free illumination and energy-efficient lighting in your home. Another good property about fluorescent lights is that do not get overheated, but remain cool while they are on. This means they will not burn out as quickly as other incandescent light bulbs. If you are installing some fluorescent lighting in your home, follow the tips below to help make the process smoother.

Remove All Old Hardware

If you are replacing an older light fixture with a new fluorescent lighting system you will need to remove the old hardware also. With most incandescent lights you can simply reuse the existing wiring and hardware that was there before. This is an attractive option for many people who are not skilled in remodeling or electrical work. However, most of the fluorescent light fixtures have their own mounting hardware that is much different than that of incandescent lighting. 

Break Light Down

The best way to install your new fluorescent lighting system is to break the light down as you as you possibly can. This makes installing the fixture much easier as you can get at the wires and mounting hardware. 

Use Existing Power Wires

Once you have the fixture ready for installation you can use the power wires that are there. Use a good pair of wire strippers and peel back the insulation to at least ½-inch. Instead of simply wrapping the wires together and taping them with electrical tape, make use of twist terminals that will create a locking connection. Connect the wires according to color so you will not cause any electrical fires.

Keep Fixture Level

When you mount the light fixture on the ceiling it is important that it is as close to level as you can get it. This will help the gas inside the tube expand better and present a much more even light. 

Install Away from Moisture

There are a lot of fluorescent lighting systems in the kitchen. This is not a bad idea when you think about it, but you must take into account the actual position of the light. One of the problems with this particular light system is that moisture can corrode the pins and contacts that send power to the light. When this happens you will need to replace the entire light. It is recommended that fluorescent lights are not placed above stoves, or sinks. They can be on the ceiling near them, but not above them.

Keep Wires Straight

Some ceilings do not provide a lot of room for excess wires to be stored when the light fixture is mounted on the ceiling. When you wad up the extra wire and try to push it into a small opening, it can cause some connection issues with the light. You should make sure you only have enough wire that you need and that they are free from crimping and bundling. Keep the wires separated by color so they do not cross and short out.