How to Hang a Wall Lamp
Wall lamps don't take up floor-space and most are easy to install. Some take more time and common tools. Unlike sconces or other wired-in wall light fixtures, wall lamps do not require connections with electrical wires in the walls. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Picture hook for lightweight pin-up lamp
- Hammer
- Bracket and screws for plate-mounted lamp
- Drill and plastic anchors, if needed
- Screwdriver
- Extension cord, if needed
Instructions
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The first step is determining where to hang it. People sometimes put wall lamps in odd places because their cords aren't near enough to an outlet. Plug in the lamp and hold it where you would like to mount it on the wall.
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Ask someone to hold the plugged in lamp where you want to mount it, then sit down under the lamp and see if the light is going where you need it. This is important for tasks such as reading or sewing. If it's a swing-arm lamp, stand up and make sure you don't hit the lamp on the way up.
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Measure where to position the picture hook for a lightweight pin-up lamp, tap the hook gently into the wall and hang the lamp.
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Measure where to place the wall-bracket to attach the covering plate of a heavier wall-mounted lamp. The bracket may sit as much as 1/2 in. below the covering plate, so allow for that. If installing in the middle of a plaster or sheetrock wall, drill holes and install plastic anchors before screwing in the bracket so the weight of the lamp won't pull the bracket screws out of the wall.
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Screw plate onto the bracket, using the hardware provided with the lamp.
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Tips & Warnings
Although your wall lamp may come with a shade, experiment with the lighting effects you can create by changing shade shape, color and size.
Never run electrical or extension cords under carpet.
