How to Add a Light Fixture or Two
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How to Add Light Fixtures: Access to Existing Electrical Wiring, Will the New Light Require a Separate Switch, and an Easier Way to Add a Light and Switch. © By: Dave Rongey |
Wiring Light Fixtures
Electrical Question: Is there a way to add a light fixture to our existing wiring?
- We are moving into a rental home in August. Our landlords are very open to us updating the space to making it work for us.
- In the main living room and dining room there is only one ceiling fixture in the center of the room.
- Is there a way to split the wires from the center and have some sort of line to the living side and another to the dining side or will we need to have an electrician come in and create new ceiling outlets on each side?
- I hope this question makes sense. Since I’m not familiar with wiring I have no idea if what I’m asking is even possible.
- We ideally want to put a fixture over the dining side and perhaps a ceiling fan or fun fixture over the living side. The room is longer than it is wide.
This Electrical Wiring Question came from: Sharon, from Bloomington, Indiana.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Sharon.
How to Add Light Fixtures
Application: Electrical Wiring for a Light Fixture.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools, hole saw and drill motor, drop cloth, a Voltage Tester and a fiberglass ladder.
Typical Materials Required: Type NM Cable or same type and gauge cable as the existing light circuit cable, staples for securing the cable, light fixture cut in box or required well supported fixture box for the specific light fixture, wire connectors.
Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, access to the circuit wiring and project area, and experience working with light circuit wiring.
Precaution: Identify the lighting circuit in the panel, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
Notice: Modifying or installing additional wiring for light fixtures should be done according to local and national electrical codes with a permit and be inspected.
Methods for Adding Light Fixture Wiring
The possibility of adding a light fixture or two depends on a few things, including the following:
- Access to Existing Electrical Wiring
Does the room for the new lighting have an attic above, or another floor? Attic access will provide the necessary access to install additional electrical wiring. If access is a problem then installing surface wiring channels are a possibility. Surface mounted wiring channels and conduits are available in a few different styles and types which may blend in with some wall coverings. - Will the New Light Require a Separate Switch
Access will be required to install new wiring for separate switches, and this again will involve work being done in the attic to install new wiring down to the desired switch location. - Home Automation is an Easier Way to Add a Light and Switch
As long as an electrical power source can be supplied, switching control may be accomplished using Home Automation Devices for Lighting. Many home automation technologies just require a power source to be at the location of the light fixture which will then be controlled by control modules that can be installed. Installing Home Automation devices presents a variety of control options along with dimming compatible light fixtures. This method of control can be provided using a remote control module for a Ceiling Fan and Light Fixture.
In Review:
Having access to install the electrical power source is the key component when adding a light fixture. Using the existing light fixture as the power source may be an option to extend the wiring to the desired locations and then using home automation modules and controls for switching and adjusting the levels of light.
More about adding Light Fixtures
How to Install Ceiling Fans
Take the mystery out of ceiling fan wiring. Ceiling Fans are a great way to lower your energy bill and brighten up one of your favorite rooms.
Learn About Home Automation
Home automation is about delivering practical control of your lighting, home and personal lifestyle which provides comfort and control and energy savings.
Wiring Electrical Outlets for the Home
Home electrical wiring includes 110 volt outlets and 220 volt outlets and receptacles which are common place in every home. See how wiring electrical outlets for the home are done.
The following may also be helpful for you:
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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
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