Kitchen/Bathroom Remodeling: Installing Lights

Installing lights in your kitchen or bathroom remodeling project doesn't necessarily require you to call an electrician. While every model of light fixture requires its own installation process, there are a few basics you should know before beginning the DIY project.

Light Installation Basics

One major step that you can complete before starting your remodeling project is to confirm your circuit’s load capacity. Too many devices can constantly trip a breaker, so this is a major factor in determining what kinds of lights to install. In an add-on situation you can install a new circuit, or you can simply draw power from an existing circuit.

A big battle in light installation is getting fixtures mounted properly. Generally, an extra cross brace is nailed up during the framing process. However, if you are retro-fitting, you may be required to remove some wallboard to add extra bracing or select your location based on the nearest stud or joist.

Recessed Light Installation

What You Need

• Recessed fixture with a mounting bracket
• Keyhole saw

Step 1-Mark Locations of Light Fixtures

Use the light’s housing as a guide to mark the hole on the ceiling and use your keyhole saw to cut the hole. Keep in mind that you should keep insulation 3 inches away from recessed lights to avoid overheating.

Step 2-Run Power to Light Fixture

Run the incoming power directly to the light fixture and then run a cable down to the switch to make a loop.

Step 3-Fasten the Frame

Slip the frame brackets up into the opening and position the fixture to sit flush with the bottom of the wood framing. Fasten the frame to the joists by pounding the metal teeth onto its supporting arms. Use the small mounting clips that came with the light to fasten it slightly recessed from the drywall.

Step 4-Paint

If possible, paint the area before placing the reflector shield and bulb. Snap the shield into place.

Track Lighting Installation

What You Need

• Track lighting kit
• Drill

Step 1-Install the Track

Install the track on the ceiling and orient its position to fit the room. If you aren’t replacing a pre-existing ceiling light, you will need to install a new junction box and run switched power to the box on a new cable at this time.

Step 2-Wire the Fixture

Feed the connecting wire ends through the fixture’s mounting plate and fasten them to the box. Feed the ends through the track opening at the terminals and secure the track on the ceiling by screwing it into the ceiling joists or using toggle bolts.

Step 3-Attach Ground Wire

Attach the ground wire to the fixture’s base plate and strip the hot and neutrals wires and attach them to their respective track terminals.

Step 4-Secure the Fixtures

Secure each light fixture onto the track, following the manufacturer’s instructions.