How to Hang Light Fixtures in an Outdoor Entry Way

Porch and patio lights don't have to be an unattractive fixture by your entryway. Many new fixtures not only provide light but also add curb appeal to your home. Hanging a light fixture is simply a matter of removing the old porch light and installing a new, more decorative one. Light fixtures are available at hardware stores and lighting centers.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Outdoor light fixture
• Wire strippers
• Plastic wire nuts
• Silicone caulk
• Caulking gun

Instructions

1. Turn off the circuit breaker to the outside entryway light. Test the light at the switch to make sure the power is off. Remove the thumbscrews that secure the light cover to the fixture. Unscrew the light bulb and set the bulb and the cover out of the way.

2. Remove the screws securing the light fixture to the wall or post with a Phillips-head screwdriver. Pull the fixture away from the wall enough that you can access the wires.

3. Twist the plastic wire caps that secure the house wires to the fixture. Set the old fixture out of the way. You may have to install a mounting plate over the junction box for your new light fixture. Position the mounting plate over the junction box and secure the plate to the wall with the supplied mounting screws.

4. Pull the ends of the house wires through the center of the mounting plate. Strip away 1 inch of insulation from the ends of the house wires with wire strippers. Use the wire strippers to remove 1 inch of insulation from the ends of the wires on the new fixture.

5. Position the light fixture by the junction box and connect the house wires to the fixture wires using plastic wire nuts. Connect black to black and white to white. You will also have a green or copper ground wire inside the junction box. Attach the ground wire to the green terminal screw on the inside of the fixture.

6. Set the fixture on the mounting bracket and flush against the wall. Secure the fixture to the mounting place with the retaining screws. Place an appropriate size light bulb in the fixture socket and attach the fixture cover with the supplied hardware.

7. Return power to the fixture through the circuit breaker and test your new light at the switch. Apply silicone caulk around the perimeter of the fixture where the fixture meets the wall with a caulking gun. This will prevent water from getting between the fixture and the wall.

Tips & Warnings

• If you install a hanging fixture, you'll have a long chain that the fixture wires wrap around. Connect the wires in the same way, but instead of mounting the fixture to the wall, you'll mount only a cover plate.

• Always disconnect electrical power to light fixtures before attempting repairs or replacements.

References

• Lowes.com: Outdoor Light Fixtures
• Thisoldhouse.com: Hanging an Exterior Sconce