How to Replace Kitchen Lighting

Replacing your kitchen lighting with modern fixtures can go a long way toward increasing illumination efficiency while cutting down on costs. Older homes often have cheap fluorescent lights in place that were installed at a time when lighting was only considered in the most general terms. Usually, a single-ceiling fixture containing 2 fluorescent tubes was the typical source for all kitchen illumination. Fortunately, that fixture can easily be replaced with one that is more efficient and possesses a contemporary look.

Step 1: Choice of Lighting

There are quite a few choices when looking to replace that old fluorescent fixture with one that has a contemporary design and function. Recessed and track lighting present attractive options. Surf the net to learn about contemporary kitchen lighting options and prices. While a contemporary general illumination kitchen light fixture will be more expensive than that cheap fluorescent one you are replacing, keep in mind that this investment will be a cost saver in the long run. Modern technologies have produced efficient bulbs and lamps that use less energy and last longer than traditional lighting. Make sure the lighting fixture you do choose fits in the space allotted and is compatible with your available wiring.

Step 2: Power Off

Locate the breaker box and turn all power circuits to the kitchen off. Place masking tape over the switches to prevent anyone from turning it back on.

Step 3: Remove Bulbs

Place a ladder directly below the present fixture, making sure it is stable and secure. A good tip is to have a helper at the ladder bottom holding it steady while you are working on it. Once up the ladder, remove the fixture lens. Then remove the fluorescent tubes, disposing of them properly.

Step 4: Remove Fixture

Locate all attachment screws, loosening them enough to gain access to the electrical wiring. Detach the wire and finish, removing the screws and dispose of the fixture properly.

Step 5: Connect the New Fixture

With the aid of a helper, hold the new fixture within reach of the house wiring and make the appropriate connections with black-to-black, white-to-white and bare copper ground (or green) to bare copper ground. Use yellow wire caps to finish the connections.

Step 6: Base Connection

Screw the lighting fixture base into the ceiling securely into ceiling studs. Make sure the connections are tight to ensure a safe installation.

Step 7: Install Bulbs

Install the appropriate bulbs for your new fixture according to the manufacturer’s directions. If the new fixture has multiple lights that can be angles such as track lighting, experiment with angling directions where you wish to illuminate.

Step 8: Power Back Up

Remove the masking tape over the circuit breaker switch and turn it on. Check to make sure the fixture is operating correctly.