Replacing a fluorescent light box in your kitchen involves several steps, primarily focusing on safety and proper wiring. Here's a breakdown of how to do it:
Steps to Replace a Fluorescent Light Box
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Turn Off the Power: This is the most crucial step. Locate the circuit breaker that controls the kitchen lights and switch it to the "OFF" position. Double-check that the light is off before proceeding. Using a non-contact voltage tester to confirm the power is off is highly recommended.
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Remove the Plastic Shade and Light Bulbs: Carefully remove the plastic diffuser or shade covering the fluorescent light fixture. These are usually held in place by clips or tabs. Set the shade aside. Then, remove the fluorescent light bulbs by gently twisting and pulling them out. Dispose of the bulbs properly according to local regulations, as they contain mercury.
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Detach the Metal Panel (if applicable): Some fluorescent light boxes have a metal panel or reflector that needs to be removed to access the wiring. This panel is usually held in place by screws or clips. Remove the screws or release the clips and carefully detach the panel.
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Disconnect the Wires in the Old Fixture: This is where you'll encounter the wiring. Before disconnecting anything, take a photo of the wiring configuration. This will be invaluable when connecting the new fixture.
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You'll typically find three wires:
- Black wire: This is the hot wire (power).
- White wire: This is the neutral wire.
- Green or bare copper wire: This is the ground wire.
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Use wire nuts to disconnect each wire individually. Twist the wire nut counterclockwise to loosen it and pull the wires apart.
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If the wires are taped together instead of using wire nuts, carefully remove the tape before separating the wires.
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Unscrew the Fixture Box & Remove It From Your Ceiling: The fluorescent light box is usually attached to the ceiling's electrical box with screws. Remove these screws. You may need a screwdriver or a drill with a screwdriver bit. Once the screws are removed, carefully lower the fixture. If it's stuck, gently try to pry it loose.
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Prepare the New Fixture: Take the new fixture out of the box and read the manufacturer's instructions.
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Install the New Fixture:
- Attach the mounting bracket: Most new fixtures come with a mounting bracket that needs to be attached to the electrical box in the ceiling. Secure the bracket with the screws provided.
- Connect the wires: Using the photo you took earlier as a guide, connect the wires from the new fixture to the wires in the ceiling's electrical box.
- Connect the black wire from the fixture to the black wire in the ceiling.
- Connect the white wire from the fixture to the white wire in the ceiling.
- Connect the green or bare copper wire from the fixture to the green or bare copper wire in the ceiling or to the grounding screw in the electrical box.
- Secure each connection with wire nuts, twisting them clockwise until they are tight. Gently tug on each wire to ensure the connection is secure.
- Attach the fixture to the mounting bracket: Carefully raise the fixture and attach it to the mounting bracket, securing it with the screws provided.
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Install Bulbs and Cover: Install the correct type of light bulbs in the new fixture. Attach the diffuser or shade.
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Restore Power: Go back to the circuit breaker and switch it to the "ON" position.
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Test the New Fixture: Turn on the kitchen lights to test the new fixture. If it doesn't work, double-check your wiring connections and the light bulbs.
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Spackle Holes & Paint The Area (If Necessary): If the old fixture left holes in the ceiling, use spackle to fill them in. Once the spackle is dry, sand it smooth and paint the area to match the surrounding ceiling.
Important Considerations:
- Local Electrical Codes: Be sure to adhere to all local electrical codes when performing this work.
- Professional Help: If you are uncomfortable working with electricity, it is always best to hire a qualified electrician.
- Safety First: Always prioritize safety when working with electricity. Turn off the power, double-check with a voltage tester, and work carefully.
- LED Retrofit: Instead of replacing the entire fixture, consider an LED retrofit kit if available for your existing fixture. This often involves replacing the bulbs and ballast with LED equivalents.
