Whether you’re moving to a new home or just redecorating, taking down and reinstalling various light fixtures can be quite a project.
From home chandeliers to delicate foyer or dining room light fixtures, handling these pieces with the utmost care and taking proper safety precautions can help you transport them securely to their new location.
If you’re wondering how to move and reinstall home chandeliers or other light fixtures, here’s a
step-by-step guide to help you complete the process.
Step 1: Turn Off the Power Supply
Before doing anything with your light fixture, go ahead and turn off the power supply to the fixture at the circuit breaker. Cutting the power ensures your safety while handling the fixture by preventing accidental shock when disassembling and removing the fixture.
Step 2: Gather Tools and Materials
You’ll need a stepladder or sturdy scaffolding, electrical tape, wire nuts, a flathead screwdriver, and possibly an adjustable wrench or pliers to move your home chandelier or light fixture. Having a second person to assist with lifting and holding the fixture during the process can also be helpful, especially if the chandelier is large or heavy.
Step 3: Disconnect and Remove the Fixture
Once the power is cut off and you have your tools, carefully detach any decorative elements, such as crystals or shades, from the chandelier.
Most fixtures will have a canopy near the ceiling that covers the electrical box. Loosen the screws or decorative nuts holding the canopy in place and remove it. This should expose the wiring connections. Use electrical tape to secure the wires to the fixture to prevent them from falling into the electrical box.
Using the appropriate screwdriver or pliers, remove the wire nuts connecting the fixture’s wiring to the home’s electrical wiring. Take note of which wires are connected to each other, as you will need to reconnect them later.
Step 4: Remove the Mounting Bracket
A chandelier or foyer lighting fixture is typically held in place by a mounting bracket secured to the electrical box. Unscrew the mounting screws or nuts and carefully lower the fixture from the bracket. Be sure to support the weight of the fixture with your other hand to prevent it from falling—this is where a second person can come in handy.
Step 5: Pack and Transport the Fixture
Once you’ve removed the fixture, carefully wrap delicate elements, such as crystals or glass shades, in bubble wrap or soft cloth before packing them in a box or container for transport. If moving your chandelier or light fixture to another house, use additional padding, such as foam or packing peanuts, to protect the fixture during transport. Label the box as fragile and handle it with care.
Step 6: Reinstall the Fixture
Once you’ve safely transported the fixture to its new location, it’s time to reinstall it. If you’ve moved to a new house, ensure the power to the fixture is cut off before attempting to reinstall it.
Attach the mounting bracket to the electrical box, making sure it is secure. Carefully feed the wires through the central hole in the bracket and align the mounting screws. Reconnect the appropriate wiring connections, matching the colored wires and securing them with wire nuts.
Finally, attach the decorative elements, such as crystals or shades, to the fixture.
Step 7: Check Connections and Restore Power
Before turning back on the power, ensure all connections are secure and properly tightened. Double-check that the fixture is level and adjust as necessary. Once you have your light fixture in place, restore power at the circuit breaker and test the fixture to ensure it functions correctly. If you have any issues or cannot get the light fixture to come back on, contact your local residential electrician for help.
Have an Electrician Move Your Light Fixture
Moving a heavy chandelier or light fixture can be challenging and potentially dangerous. Having a licensed electrician disconnect and move the fixture can ensure a safe move and minimize the risk of any problems. Contact CoreTrade Electric to have your home chandelier or light fixture moved and installed for a stress-free process—book a consultation with us today!
