Changing Out a Light: Tips

 Updating a light fixture is a home improvement project that you can easily do yourself.  In less than an hour, you can replace an old, boring light with something great.  There are many tutorials and videos out there to tell you step by step how to change out a light.  In fact, the instructions that came with my new fixture were excellent.  I just wanted to share a few tips, I have learned along the way.

Tip 1: Always start any electrical project with turning off the electricity.  I know this seems like common sense, but this is important.  Don't just turn off the lights, find the breaker and turn off the electricity.

Tip 2: While this is an easy project to DIY, it certainly is helpful to have an extra pair of hands around.   Find a friend that owes you a favor, and have them come over to hold the light.  It makes it so much easier to attach the wires, if you don't have to also hold the glass globe.

Tip 3: Secure wire connections are the key to this project.  You may need to use wire strippers to remove some of the plastic insulation to expose more wire.  Screw the plastic connector over the joined wires, and tug to make sure they won't come loose.

Tip 4: Once all the connections are made, check your work.  Before you put everything back in place, turn on the electricity and make sure it works.  It is easier to fix any problem while the globe is off.

Have you changed out any lights recently?  What tips do you have to share?