How to Change a Light Fitting

HOW TO CHANGE A LIGHT FITTING – If you’re looking to change the appearance of a room then changing the light fitting is one way to achieve this. Take a look around any home lighting store and you’ll quickly realize the vast amount of choice you have in styles and finishes.

Almost all new light fittings are capable of using new energy efficient light bulbs as well so changing a light fitting can also help you to reduce your energy needs and bills. In this guide we provide you with step-by-step instructions for changing a light fitting in your home.

 Step 1

The first thing you need to do is decide on a new light fitting for your room. Try to buy one that does hold energy efficient light bulbs. You’ll end up saving money on your energy bills plus help the planet by reducing your energy needs.

 Step 2

Before you start make sure you turn the power OFF at the mains. Place a note on the mains electric box to let others in the house know that you are working on the electrics in the home to prevent someone turning the power back on accidentally. If you have any doubts about working with the home electrical system then call in a qualified electrician to do the job.

 Step 3

Your new light fitting should come with fitting instructions and you should read these thoroughly before attempting to change the fitting.

 Step 4

Unscrew the light-rose of your existing light fitting to expose the wiring. The wiring colours should be: GREEN/YELLOW = Earth, BROWN = Live and BLUE = Neutral. Note that if you live in an old house these colours may be different: BLACK = Neutral and RED = Live.

 Step 5

Your new fitting will clearly indicate where each wire goes: E = Earth (or the Earth Symbol), L = Live and N = Neutral.

 Step 6

SAFETY: If you DO NOT have an EARTH wire at the connection point on the ceiling then DO NOT fit a light fitting that is metallic, such as Chrome or Brass.

 Step 6

Now disconnect the wires from the base and old fitting by loosening the connectors and removing the wires.

 Step 8

Take your light fitting mounting bracket and attach this to the ceiling.

 Step 9

Check the ends of each wire. If the copper is damaged then cut it off, using wire electrical strippers, and then remove a small part of the plastic protective sleeve, of the wiring, to expose a new length of copper wire.

 Step 10

Now connect each wire to each connector as per the instructions. Again, these should be E = Earth (or the Earth Symbol), L = Live and N = Neutral.

 Step 11

Once all your wires are properly connected you can push the light fitting up to the bracket and fasten the screws that hold the light fitting to the ceiling bracket.

 Step 12

IMPORTANT – Remember to follow the manufacturers guidelines regarding the usage of light bulbs. You should NEVER fit a light bulb that is above the manufacturer’s wattage recommendations.

 Step 13

Turn ON the electricity at the mains box and test your light fitting.

Acknowledgements: Video – WoodiesDIY.com