How to Install an Exterior Hanging Light

Installing an exterior hanging light will definitely add an accent to the outdoor lighting of a home. An exterior hanging light is a great decoration outside the home because it makes the home look more exquisite. Although some designs may be a bit expensive, there are myriads of designs to choose from that will still fit a tight budget. The installation of these light fixtures outside the home may not require professional help but may require the help of a second person for assistance. Here is how to install an exterior hanging light.

Step 1 – Preparation

Choose an exterior hanging light that is safety-rated for exterior use. Before starting the installation of the new light fixture, be sure to turn off the power supply first. Use a voltmeter to test if the power is indeed turned off. If there is an existing light fixture on the ceiling or the surface where the light will be installed, remove it.

Step 2 – Inspecting the Outlet Box

Check the outlet box if it can support the total weight of the new light fixture. For lighter light fixtures, a plastic box will do. However, if the fixture is relatively heavy, consider installing a metal box instead in order to ensure that the hanging light will not fall off anytime in the future.

Step 3 – Install a Mounting Strap

A mounting strap is optional. If the box does not have a center stud, then this piece of mounting hardware should be installed. Screw the mounting strap to the box securely.

Step 4 – Assemble the Lighting Fixture

Before proceeding with the wiring, take out the lighting fixture from its package and assemble all the different parts by following the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Step 5 – Wiring the Light Fixture

Check out the wiring on the fixture. This can be found at its top portion, or the portion that connects to the outlet box in the ceiling. Study the wiring schematics provided by the manufacturer and follow the directions for wiring. Usually, this involves splicing the black wire on the fixture to the black wire on the outlet box. Use wiring nuts to connect the two wires together. Splice the white wires as well in the same manner as the black wires. Connect the bare wire or the green wire on the outlet box to the green wire on the light fixture. Finally, connect the green wire to the ground screw or the mounting strap. Place wiring nuts on all wiring connections to ensure that they are properly connected. Tuck the wires into the power box.

Step 6 – Mounting the Light Fixture

Mount the light fixture by sliding the escutcheon plate on the wire hanging on the ceiling and screw the light fixture on the ceiling. Make sure that the light is securely positioned in the ceiling before turning on the power supply. Test the exterior hanging light by switching it on.