I have a light fixture that I am replacing in my dining room. I do not have a problem with the wiring because it is a brand new house...However, the mounting plate of the new fixture does not match up with the electrical box in the ceiling. What can I do to get this fixture installed. I would much prefer to get an adaptor of some sort rather than having to replace the electrical box in the ceiling...I am not an electrician and would prefer not to have to hire one...
2007-07-23 05:46:48 · 4 answers · asked by mks6128 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
Usually, adaptors are included in the box with new light fixtures. If not, you can go to a hardware store and find an adaptor that you can use.
If it gets too complicated, you may have to get some help. I would not recommend hiring an electrician, this looks like a job for a competent handyman.
Good luck.
2007-07-23 05:56:53 · answer #1 · answered by ken erestu 6 · 3⤊ 0⤋
If no adapter was included, and one can't be found, make one!
Check with a metal yard (or, I know OSH sells it, maybe Home Depot or Lowe's), and get a piece of sheet metal 3/16-1/4 inch thick. Drill holes (usually 2) in it to align with the holes in the box in the ceiling (use a piece of paper, stretch tight over the opening of the box, rub with the side of a soft pencil and create a pattern of the holes).
Drill more (usually 2) holes to bolt fixture to plate. Either thread holes (drill holes under sized to diameter listed on tap used), or sheet metal screws (again, undersized holes).
Bolt plate to ceiling box, then bolt fixture to plate.
2007-07-23 13:24:00 · answer #2 · answered by strech 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Usually the fixture comes with a pivot bar that will adapt the box to the fixture. Look in the box for a two part flat metal bar. It swivels in the center. One part mounts to your box and the fixture mounts to the other part.
2007-07-24 00:35:01 · answer #3 · answered by John himself 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
You should take it back to the store, Sounds like a part was left out when they packaged the light. Since it is new, the store should make good on replacement of the light.
2007-07-23 21:58:14 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋