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DIY: HOW TO: Lighting Fixtures — Brooklynian

DIY: HOW TO: Lighting Fixtures

barnable
barnable
edited November -1 in Prospect Heights
Anybody know how to disconnect and remove the half-globe lighting fixtures that are standard in any rental apartment and to install new lighting fixtures? Is it possible to do it easily without the assistance of an electrician or a sour super and without (1) frying myself or (2) setting my apartment on fire?
Any tips or detailed how-to-plans would be much appreciated. Thanks.

Comments

  • modsquad
    modsquad
    Before we start, do you have access to your own circuit breakers maybe in your kitchen? If not do you have a heart condition?
  • whynot_31
    whynot_31
    this is an easy task for anyone who is reasonably handy.

    ...yes, you'll need access to the circuit breakers.
  • barnable
    barnable
    I do not have access to the circuit breakers--I think. Looks like this going to involve my super...
  • modsquad
    modsquad
    You can do it without the breaker if you want. You need to buy a cheap circuit tester and make sure nobody turns the switch "on" when you're working on it. I'm presuming this is a "switched" circuit?

    image
  • barnable
    barnable
    No idea what a switched circuit is...I guess it is. Do you think it would be worthwhile calling in an electrician and on that note, know what it might cost?
  • modsquad
    modsquad
    Two things. I manage apartments. lofts etc. for LLs and I think they all have a "subpanel" in the apartment with the main circuit breakers in the basement. Subpanels being smaller breakers for the different stuff in the apartment. Usually in the kitchen or the back wall of a closet.

    The second thing. Replacing this light does not require an electrician mechanically, legally or whatever. It would be a very simple job for the sourpuss super. My guess is $20 to $40 for his labor. The only thing you need to do is take the globe off and cell phone photo the connections holding it to the ceiling and go to a lighting store and match it.

    Switched circuit has an on/off switch.
  • barnable
    barnable
    Thanks very much for the input. I will ask him and see if he can do it. He has managed the building for ages and so such a task might not be new to him.
  • modsquad
    modsquad
    If he is a complete asshole look up and down the street for another super in another building. I cover my ass all the time with guys from different buildings.
  • mantic
    mantic
    there are three set screws that hold the glass globe ont the fixture. there should be two screws that hold the fixture onto the plate. screw those out and the fixture shoud drop. There will be black and white wire connected. Visually inspect and verify that your new fixture will mount as is, with out the need for adaptors or modification.

    There should be wire nuts (cone shaped colored plastic device) holding the two blacks together, the same for the white. If there are, it is a matter of unscrewing nuts. Turn off the light switch. Dissasemble one set and replace the nut on the lead coming from the ceiling. Do the next. To install the fixture do the reverse.

    If the ends are taped up and no wire nuts, a mess of wires, looks old and nasty, I would seek further assistance.
  • whynot_31
    whynot_31
    do not stand in a bucket of water as you perform the above.
  • sterling2000
    sterling2000
    Quick Google searches usually pull up decent simple diagrams of all kinds of wiring scenarios if you're a complete newbie to the process....
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