How to Install a Ceiling Light Cover

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Things You'll Need

  • Light cover

  • Step stool

  • Phillips head screwdriver

  • Needle nose pliers

Style in a Light Cover

With the various types of light fixtures that fit on the ceiling, it is imperative to know the variations in the light fixture covers. Some ceiling light fixture covers use a set of three screws to hold them in place, while others are held in place with clips. Recessed light fixtures that have covers use a ring to hold the cover in place. Unless you can bend your elbow while reaching up to the light fixture, use a small step stool to keep from dropping the cover.

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Step 1

Place the step stool directly beneath the ceiling light fixture. If the step stool has more than two steps, be certain that you can balance yourself easily before proceeding.

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Step 2

Locate the screws that hold the light cover in place and back them out. Do not remove them.

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Step 3

Set the light fixture cover in place. Next, began tightening the screws, alternating between the three so that they will each strike the light cover equally.

Step 4

Place the step stool directly beneath the ceiling light fixture. If the step stool has more than two steps, be certain that you can balance yourself easily before proceeding.

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Step 5

Locate the clips that hold the light cover in place. Pull them back so the light fixture cover will fit where it goes.

Step 6

Set the light cover in place and slide the clips in to hold the light cover secure to the fixture. You may need to use the needle nose pliers to move them in and out.

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Step 7

Place the step stool directly beneath the ceiling light fixture. If the step stool has more than two steps, be certain that you can balance yourself easily before proceeding.

Step 8

Insert the light fixture cover into the ring made to hold it in place. Next, slip the ring into the recessed lighting fixture until you feel it click into place.

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Step 9

Test the ring to make certain it is secure by gently pulling on it from different places around the ring. Next, wipe the ring and the cover with a soft cloth, as these types of fixtures tend to show fingerprints.

Tip

Always wear safety glasses as debris can fall from the ceiling into the eyes.

In some cases, the screws that hold a light cover in place will require a Phillips head screwdriver.

Some light covers are in frames on hinges and will swing down making it easier to replace them.

Warning

Do not over-tighten the screws that hold a light cover in place as the pressure could cause it to break.

Do not use the step stool if it is two short as this could cause you to fall.

Do not force the light cover into place, as it can break and cause hand injury.

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