Removing overhead lights safely involves several steps, primarily involving disconnecting electrical wiring. Always turn off the circuit breaker controlling the light fixture before beginning any work. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Identify the Type of Fixture
Before you start, determine the type of overhead light fixture you're dealing with. Common types include:
- Flush Mount: Fixtures that sit directly against the ceiling.
- Semi-Flush Mount: Fixtures that hang slightly below the ceiling.
- Chandeliers/Pendant Lights: Fixtures that hang significantly from the ceiling via a chain or rod.
2. Remove the Globe, Bowl, or Cover
Carefully remove any glass globe, bowl, or cover that protects the light bulbs. This often involves unscrewing retaining screws or twisting the cover to release it.
3. Remove the Light Bulbs
Remove the light bulbs from the fixture. Allow them to cool down if they were recently in use.
4. Remove the Fixture Plate From the Mounting Bracket
Most overhead light fixtures are attached to a mounting bracket that is screwed into the ceiling's electrical box.
- Flush Mounts: You'll typically find screws holding the fixture to the bracket. Remove these screws.
- Chandeliers/Pendant Lights: The fixture may be attached to a chain or rod connected to the bracket. You'll need to detach the fixture from this connection. This might involve loosening a collar or clip.
5. Disconnect Your Wiring
This is the most crucial step and must be done with the circuit breaker turned OFF.
- Once the fixture is detached from the mounting bracket, you'll see wires connecting the fixture to the electrical box in the ceiling.
- Typically, there will be three wires:
- Black (Hot): Carries the electrical current.
- White (Neutral): Returns the current to the source.
- Green or Bare Copper (Ground): Provides a safe path for electricity in case of a fault.
- Use wire strippers to gently remove the wire connectors (wire nuts) securing these wires together.
- Carefully separate the wires, ensuring they don't touch each other.
6. Cover the Hole
Once the fixture is completely removed and the wires are safely disconnected, you need to cover the electrical box in the ceiling.
- Use a blank electrical box cover plate designed for this purpose. You can find these at any hardware store.
- Secure the cover plate with screws.
Safety Note: If you are uncomfortable working with electrical wiring, it's best to hire a qualified electrician to handle the removal. Improper wiring can create a fire hazard.
