How To Move A Light Fixture

How to Move a Light Fixture

Note: This technique works when moving a light fixture closer to the light switch, as there should already be enough wire in the ceiling to reach the new fixture. When the situation calls for moving the fixture away from the switch, it may be necessary to use the existing light’s electrical box as a junction box, add more wire to reach the new location, and then cover the box with a blank cover plate.

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Heath moves a kitchen ceiling light fixture 12-18 inches to center it over a kitchen table. He uses a small metal rod (about 16 inches long), pushes it through the ceiling, and bends it to a 90-degree angle, so there is about 2 inches of bent wire through the ceiling. Heath says by rotating the rod around 360 degrees without hitting anything, he knows he can freely work in that section of the ceiling. Once Heath determines that the new location is free of obstacles, he drills a hole using a dust collector, and a 4-inch hole saw. After Heath detaches the fixture, he removes the old electrical box from the ceiling, freeing up the wire. After Heath installs the appropriate junction box and runs the wiring through it, he installs the new light fixture.