How to Replace a Shower Light Fixture

Replacing the light fixture requires experience in working with electrical wiring.

Replacing a shower light fixture might seem like a daunting task. However, if you replace the light fixture yourself, it is an inexpensive solution for installing a new fixture or replacing an existing one. Explore how the current light fixture is installed to get an idea of what you will need to do. Examine existing wiring, electrical outlets and how your bathroom lighting connects to the main power source. Work safely and have all of your materials within easy access.

Things You'll Need

• Recessed can light fixture, with adjustable brackets
• Shower overhead light fixture, with waterproof trim
• Drill
• Screwdriver
• Electrical wire, 20-2
• Wire nuts
• Electrical cable
• Silicone caulk and caulking gun

Instructions

1. Disconnect the power for the shower light from your main electrical switch box. Use a battery operated flashlight for lighting needs.

2. Dismantle the existing shower light fixture, if there is one. Put the parts in a box for storage. Wait until the installation of the new shower light fixture is complete before discarding the old shower light fixture.

3. Drill a pilot hole into the ceiling to use as a guide, if you are installing a shower light fixture for the first time and proceed with the following steps. Alternatively, you can install a replacement light fixture by using the existing wiring instructions for steps 7 to 10.

4. Access the upper level floor, such as a room, attic or crawl space to install the can light fixture and wiring.

5. Use your pilot hole as a guide for placement of the can light fixture. Trace around the circular shape of the can light fixture. Take a utility knife and cut out the drywall circle. Insert the can light and fasten it to the brackets on the floor space above the shower ceiling joists.

6. Unfasten the cover for the existing power box. Run an electrical cable to an existing power box in the attic or crawl space that connects to the power for the bathroom.

7. Connect the black wire for the power to the top of the electrical switch. Connect the black wire for the shower light fixture to the bottom side of the power switch.

8. Twist the white wires together and secure them with a wire nut. Twist the ground wires together and attach them around the green screw for the electrical switch. Attach the black wires for the electrical switch to the switchbox. Fasten the cover back on the faceplate.

9. Tie the black wires for the light fixture and electrical switchbox together so they will make an electrical connection. Use electrical tape to cover the wires and keep them from being exposed. Do the same with the white wires and the copper ground wires.

10. Test to see if the connections are working by screwing in one light bulb into the fixture. Turn the main power back on, and then flip the light switch. Turn the main power source off and recheck all connections if the light does not come on. Continue this process until the light fixture works properly.

11. Seal the light fixture with silicone caulk to waterproof the light fixture. Consider tilting the fixture to help with drainage and to highlight shower tile colors.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are the least bit unsure and uncomfortable about working with electrical wiring and completing this as a DYI project, hire a licensed and experienced electrician.

References

• DIY Guides: Waterproofing Your Lights In the Shower
• Home Remodelling Help Guide: How to Wire Bathroom Light Fixtures
• Home Addition Plus: Tips for Installing an Overhead Shower Light
• Shower YGOY: Tips for Bathroom Lighting