5 Common Light Fixture Installation Your Should Leave to The Pros

December 14, 2016

Although it may seem like a DIY task (after all, there are YouTube videos for anything and everything these days), installing a new light fixture can be a tricky and dangerous process, especially if you’re not familiar with electrical work. Whether you’ve got a condo in Fort Myers or you’re living in Estero, Florida, you may find yourself in need of an electrician from time to time — don’t be afraid to call.

Here are 5 common types of light fixture installations you should leave to the pros:

1. Recessed Lighting

Recessed lighting brightens up a room and provides a modern touch to your home. Sometimes called can lights, these are as the name suggests, recessed into your ceiling. It’s important to have an electrician install recessed lighting in your home because it requires the installation of a new box, the light itself, and connecting to the existing wiring. Additionally, the drywall around where you want the light would also need to be cut in order to allow for installation.

2. Pendant or Island Lights

If you have a beachy kitchen in your Estero, Florida beach condo, you may want to install pendant lights over the island. This can provide a separate light source when gathering around the island or additional light for prep work. You’ll likely need to install a separate switch for the pendant lights, in addition, to actually installing the light in the ceiling, both of which can be dangerous if you’re not qualified to work with electricity.

3. Ceiling Fans with Lights

Especially in the heat of the summer, ceiling fans with lights can provide a nice breeze. The combo ceiling fan/light options also provide more functionality for homeowners. However, this is another complex installation because you’re dealing with both the wiring for the new light fixture as well as the wiring for the fan. Then, you also need to tie into a junction box and potentially install switches for the fan and the light. Improperly installing a ceiling fan/light combo could result in an electrical fire — it’s best to leave this one to the pros.

4. Garage or Pool House Lighting

If you have a garage or maybe a pool house, adding a light source can help increase functionality and usability. Many folks opt for fluorescent lighting in these spaces because it is cheaper to operate in the long run, and realistically, it fluorescent lights serve the purpose of simply providing more light. Hiring an electrician is a must because you’ll likely need to safely tie into an existing power source, install a switch, and mount and install the new light source.

5. Outdoor Lighting

Especially around the pool or in landscaping, outdoor lighting can be a beautiful addition to your home. However, outdoor lighting requires advanced knowledge because it needs to be wired to withstand the weather. You don’t want exposed live electric wires getting wet for obvious reasons, and you’ll need to tie in the outdoor wiring to the home.

Empowered Global is proud to serve all of southwest Florida’s electrical needs. If you need a light fixture installed, we’re here to help. Contact us today!