There are many reasons why you may need to replace your vanity light. You might not have enough light or want to update the style of your bathroom. Light fixtures can sometimes fail, and no one wants to be inconvenienced or unable to use their lighting.
The process of replacing a vanity lamp fixture is quite simple. Be aware that you will be working around electrical components. This means additional safety precautions will be necessary. We'll guide you through the process once you are ready to start.
Safety First
Bathroom vanity lighting is a simple job that most DIYers can do. However, if you are nervous about the task, it's a good idea to hire a professional. You can avoid injury or even fire by being aware of your limits and taking extra precautions when working with electrical fixtures.
If you choose to do this yourself, make sure the electrical supply to the fixture is turned off at the breaker box. Turn on the bathroom light to do this. After you have turned off the electricity to the breaker box, verify that the bathroom light was on when you switched the breaker. As an additional safeguard, you can turn off the light switch to prevent someone from accidentally turning the breaker on again.
How to replace a bathroom vanity light:
Removing the old fixture
After you have taken safety precautions, it is time to get going. First, open the package for your new light fixture to verify that all parts are included. You will also need to ensure that the wiring can reach the wall.
Next, remove the old light fixture. Remove any glass shades to prevent them from breaking, and then remove the lightbulbs. If the bulbs are too hot or broken, use gloves. You will find screws that attach the fixture to the wall. Sometimes these can be hidden under decorative caps or along the rims on a flange. Thumbscrews can also be used to remove decorative plates that cover the main attachments.
Once the original light fixture has been removed from the wall you can undo the wiring connecting it. You can use a voltage tester to verify that the electricity has turned off. If not, you can double-check the light switch or breaker box to ensure that it is working. Next, pull the wires from the junction box and remove the wire nuts that connect them.
After you are done, inspect the wires sticking out from the wall. Make sure they are not damaged or frayed. You can use a wire cutter if the wires are damaged or frayed. Then, strip the coating off to expose about 1/2 inch.
How to Install Your New Light Fixture
The process for attaching the fixture is the same as removing it but in reverse. As you do this job, be sure to follow the instructions on the package. Start by attaching the fixture's wires and wire nuts to the wall. Once you've secured each wire nut, give them a gentle tug so they don't move later.
Next, you will need to install the mounting system for your new light fixture. The fixture will be attached to the wall using screws and a bracket. After you've installed the fixture according to the package instructions, follow these instructions to add decorative covers, shades, or other components.
You will only need to install the lights and shades at the end. After all, this is done, take a look at the light fixture to ensure that everything has been properly installed. To verify that the light works, you can turn on the circuit breaker to the bathroom and then the switch for the light fixture.
