How to Change a Fluorescent Light Fixture

There are a few reasons why a fluorescent light fixture may need to be changed or replaced. These reasons include: updating the look and/or style of the fixture; a rolling or swirling light pattern, dimness, flashing or flickering in a bulb; a bulb that goes on and off sporadically; and the most obvious reason: when the light will no longer turn on. A few of these problems may be fixed by replacing the ballast in the existing light fixture. However, it may be much less expensive and more cost effective to replace the whole fixture. Whatever the reason, an existing fixture may take just a few minutes to change.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• New fluorescent light fixture New fluorescent light bulbs Flat head or Phillips head screwdriver

1. Turn off the breaker connected to the light fixture you would like to replace.

2. Remove the diffuser cover. These usually just clip on. Lift off one side at a time.

3. Remove the old light bulbs by twisting them out of their sockets and letting them fall into your hands. Some bulbs may need a little more encouragement.

4. Remove the center cover to expose the wiring and ballast. Remove the wire nuts connecting the home's wiring to the fixture's wiring in the following order: hot (black); neutral (white); ground (either bare copper or green).

5. Remove the screws holding the fixture to the ceiling. You may need a helper to hold the fixture up while you remove the screws. Place the old fixture off to the side.

6. Remove a knock-out that will best accommodate the position of your home's wiring and have your helper help you hold the new fixture up to the ceiling. Feed the home wiring through the knock-out hole.

7. Screw the new fixture to the ceiling and make certain that it is fixed tightly to the ceiling.

8. Connect your home's wiring to the wiring in the fixture in this order: hot (black); neutral (white); ground (either bare copper or green). Place the center cover over the wiring assembly and the ballast.

9. Insert new light bulbs into their respective channels and twist into place.

10. Flip the breaker to the "on" position and test the light to see if it works. Put the diffuser cover into place over the fixture. Dispose of the old fixture and bulbs according to local laws and regulations.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not work with live electrical wiring. Always turn the circuit breaker off before working.