How to Mount an Outdoor Wall Mount Porch Light

Hanging a new porch light is typically a simple project.

Mounting a new porch light is typically a simple process involving only three wires. A wide variety of lighting styles are available to compliment the appearance of the home. Additionally, lights designed for porch and outdoor use are available with built-in dusk-to-dawn timers and motion sensors.

Things You'll Need

• Porch light
• 12-gauge wire nuts
• Handheld circuit tester
• Phillips screwdriver

Instructions

Power Up

1. Access the electrical panel to determine which breaker supplies power to the porch light. Flip this breaker and shut off the power.

2. Unscrew the old light (if present) by unscrewing the two decorative nuts holding the light to the mounting surface. You should be able to do this by hand. Loosen the light from the mounting surface enough to insert the handheld circuit tester to confirm the power has been shut off. If power is present, the indicator will light up. If the power is off, proceed with the installation.

3. Pull off the old light (if present) from the mounting studs. Hold the light with one hand, while unscrewing the two wire nuts with the other. Place the old light aside.

4. Connect the wire nuts to secure white to white and black to black. Use a Phillips screwdriver to screw the bare (or green) ground wire to the Phillips screw on the circular mounting plate. It may be necessary to wrap the wire around the screw two or three times prior to securing the screw tightly.

5. Slide the new light onto the mounting studs. It may be necessary to slightly unscrew the studs to lengthen or shorten them to accommodate the new light. Screw on the new cosmetic securing nuts by placing the wires side by side and twisting on the nut until secure. Ensure the new light is flush to the mounting surface, to help prevent intrusion water and insects.

6. Return to the panel and restore power to the light. Test the light by flipping on the power switch. Adjust the dusk-to-dawn and/or motion sensor setting as needed. Consult the manual for the new light for adjustment specifics.

Tips & Warnings

• Never attempt to work on any high-voltage circuit without first turning off the power at the breaker panel.

References

• AcmeDIY.com: Learn How to Replace a Porch Light
• Video.BobVilla.com: Installing a Porch Light

Resources

• DIYCentral.com: How to Change a Porch Light