Install electrical box for ceiling fan without attic access
#1
06-20-09, 12:14 AM
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Install electrical box for ceiling fan without attic access
I just purchased a ceiling fan with light that weighs about 35 pounds. My plan is to replace 2 separate existing fixtures, a cheap fan and a really ugly ceiling light, with this:
<img src="https://1footinthegrave.com/images/discus2-roman-bronze-sm.gif" width="350" height="195"/>
The ceiling has no attic access, but I would really like to move the location of the fan/light to a different location than either the existing fan or the existing light. It would mean there is no supporting lumber (the ceiling is nailed to the joists of the trusses, 24" oc) in the new location.
I am familiar with old work electrical boxes and installed a couple of these in the interior and exterior entry way for ceiling lights. But that kind of box is obviously not rated for the kind of weight a ceiling fan would impose. But a search around the Net has revealed that there are boxes with cross members that are labeled old work. I just can't see how they can be installed. Each side appears to have to be screwed into a ceiling joist and the arms are adjustable up to 24". But I don't have access to the attic, as I mentioned and cutting a very large hole in the ceiling would cause a loss of considerable blown-in insulation.
I figger some of you electrical experts can clear this up for me and help me accomplish my task. Can you point me to the right electrical box and help me understand how it is installed?
Thank you for your guidance.
Jim
<img src="https://1footinthegrave.com/images/discus2-roman-bronze-sm.gif" width="350" height="195"/>
The ceiling has no attic access, but I would really like to move the location of the fan/light to a different location than either the existing fan or the existing light. It would mean there is no supporting lumber (the ceiling is nailed to the joists of the trusses, 24" oc) in the new location.
I am familiar with old work electrical boxes and installed a couple of these in the interior and exterior entry way for ceiling lights. But that kind of box is obviously not rated for the kind of weight a ceiling fan would impose. But a search around the Net has revealed that there are boxes with cross members that are labeled old work. I just can't see how they can be installed. Each side appears to have to be screwed into a ceiling joist and the arms are adjustable up to 24". But I don't have access to the attic, as I mentioned and cutting a very large hole in the ceiling would cause a loss of considerable blown-in insulation.
I figger some of you electrical experts can clear this up for me and help me accomplish my task. Can you point me to the right electrical box and help me understand how it is installed?
Thank you for your guidance.
Jim
#3
06-20-09, 10:03 AM
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All splices must be in a box. All boxes must be accessible. The old locations will need to be left and have a blank cover installed.
That said you can get "remodel" ceiling fan boxes at most stores that have arms that expand to make contact with the framing even up to 24" O.C.. They can be installed from below the ceiling.
That said you can get "remodel" ceiling fan boxes at most stores that have arms that expand to make contact with the framing even up to 24" O.C.. They can be installed from below the ceiling.
#4
06-20-09, 10:47 AM
I have several of these on hand for old work installations. The rod acts like a turn buckle when twisted. The two ends space it properly above the sheetrock and the two pins dig into the joists. After you install the rod, the junction box is attached using u-bolts. Very solid.Old Work Ceiling Fan Brace #937 by Raco at HardwareAndTools.com
#5
06-20-09, 10:49 AM
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Originally Posted by Wirepuller38
Are you sure about no attic access? How was the insulation blown in?
I have no way of getting into the attic.
Originally Posted by Tolyn Ironhand
All splices must be in a box. All boxes must be accessible. The old locations will need to be left and have a blank cover installed.
That said you can get "remodel" ceiling fan boxes at most stores that have arms that expand to make contact with the framing even up to 24" O.C.. They can be installed from below the ceiling.
So, short of knowing I have to cut a hole the size of the new box right where I want the new fan to hang, I'm lost.
Jim
#6
06-20-09, 10:56 AM
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Originally Posted by chandler
I have several of these on hand for old work installations. The rod acts like a turn buckle when twisted. The two ends space it properly above the sheetrock and the two pins dig into the joists. After you install the rod, the junction box is attached using u-bolts. Very solid.Old Work Ceiling Fan Brace #937 by Raco at HardwareAndTools.com
Best R'gards,
Jim
PS: you posted as I was replying to the other 2. Thanks to everyone for helping.
#8
06-21-09, 10:21 AM
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Originally Posted by Tolyn Ironhand
BTW - You are not allowed to do electrical work in a place that you are renting.
Jim
