Installing Flood Lights for Outside

How to Install Electrical Wiring for Outside Flood Lights

Switch Wiring for Outside Flood Lights
Electrical Question: I would like to install an outside flood light on the back side of my house so light will shine down on the backyard area. I would like to connect the light to a switch. How do I do this?

This electrical question came from: Brien, a Handyman from Clinton, Maryland.

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your home electrical wiring question Brien.

Electrical Wiring for Outside Flood Lights

Brien, the following articles will provide detailed information for wiring an outside flood light for your back yard.
The Following will assist you with Flood Light Electrical Wiring Question:

Motion Detector Wiring

Installing Motion Detector and Security Light Fixtures

Installing motion detector lighting fixtures provide security and energy savings and they can easily replace an existing exterior wall fixture.

You identified your project to be about Wiring Diagram, so you might find this information useful:

Wiring Diagrams

Electrical Wiring Diagrams

Home electrical wiring diagrams are an important tool for completing your electrical projects. An electrical wiring diagram can be as simple as a diagram showing how to install a new switch in your hallway, or as complex as the complete electrical blueprint for your new home or home improvement project.

Lighting For The Home

Lighting Electrical Codes

wiring a switch

Wiring a Light Switch – Diagram 1

For more information about Light Switch Wiring
Light Switch Wiring

Wiring a Light Switch – Diagram 1
Fully explained pictures and wiring diagrams about wiring light switches describing the most common switches starting with photo diagram 1.

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Here's How to Do It:
Wire It Right with the help of my Illustrated Wiring Book
Great for any Home Wiring Project.

Complete Guide to Home Electrical Wiring

Perfect for Homeowners, Students,
Handyman, Handywomen, and Electricians
Includes:
Wiring GFCI Outlets
Wiring Home Electric Circuits
120 Volt and 240 Volt Outlet Circuits
Wiring Light Switches
Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Electric Range
Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Dryer Cord and Dryer Outlet
How to Troubleshoot and Repair Electrical Wiring
Wiring Methods for Upgrading Electrical Wiring
NEC Codes for Home Electrical Wiring
....and much more.

Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.

« Electrical Wiring Diagrams For Light Switches and Fixtures

Kitchen Disposal Switch Wiring »

FAQs Frequently Asked Questions and Comments

2 Responses to “Installing Flood Lights for Outside”

David says:

August 5, 2012 at 8:32 am

I’m changing out my flood lights. When I take off the existing light fixture it is wired into the light itself. If I cut the breaker off to the lights is it safe to cut them or should I cut the main breaker off to the whole house at the breaker box?

Reply
- Dave Rongey says:
  
  August 5, 2012 at 2:30 pm
  
  Hi Dave,
  If the circuit to the light fixture has been positively identified then turning OFF that circuit should be enough. It’s a great idea to place e tag or note in then panel to let others know you are working on the circuit because the circuit may be power other fixtures or devices as well.
  Enjoy your floodlights!
  Dave
  
  Reply

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Home Electrical Wiring and Electrical Repairs

Please Note:
Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects:

Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor.

Electrical Tools Required:
Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter.

Estimated Time:
Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area.

Precaution:
Identify the project circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.

Important:
Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and National Electrical Codes, with a permit and be inspected.