Exterior Lights: Quick Fixes

Answer 1

How to Replace an Exterior Light Fixture

It always feels good to make some cosmetic improvements to your house. What's next? A change of lighting may help, and can be less expensive to make than first appears. Different globe types may be available for the existing fixture, making your change of scenery even less laborious. If you do decide to purchase that whole new fixture, consider one that accommodates different looks.

Who's sitting with your daughter on the porch swing? Can the number on your house be clearly seen from the street? Look through the peephole in your front door; you should be able to clearly see the face of your visitor. Security is at least as important as good looks when shopping for exterior lighting.

Before removing the old fixture, make sure the power is switched off at the breaker box. You will almost definitely find it handy to take a picture of where the wires are connected to the back of the old fixture before disconnecting it, in case it's not obvious which connections need to be made to the new fixture.

The equipment ground may be green-jacketed or bare copper wire. The power wire is typically black, but it may be any color except white, gray or green! The white wire is the grounded conductor. Check the instructions that came with the new fixture and ensure that the wires are connected, using the proper size screw-on wire nuts. Do not attempt to connect the fixture with electrical tape alone.

Lastly, stay safe: if at any time you're uncertain, call a professional.