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Replacing a washroom vanity light fixture

1. Turn Off the Power

  • Safety First: Go to the electrical panel and turn off the circuit breaker controlling the bathroom light fixture.

  • Test for Power: Use a voltage tester to ensure that there’s no electricity running to the fixture before starting.


2. Remove the Old Vanity Light

  1. Remove the Light Bulbs: Take out any bulbs to prevent them from breaking during removal.

  2. Unscrew the Fixture: Look for screws securing the light fixture to the wall or ceiling (these may be hidden under a decorative plate). Use a screwdriver to remove them.

  3. Disconnect the Wiring: Once the fixture is loose, gently pull it away from the wall or ceiling.

    • You should see wires connected to the fixture—typically a black (hot), white (neutral), and green or bare (ground) wire.

    • Use a screwdriver to loosen the wire nuts and disconnect the wires.

  4. Remove the Fixture: Carefully remove the old fixture, and take note of the wiring setup for reference when installing the new fixture.

3. Prepare the New Vanity Light

  1. Check the New Fixture: Make sure the new vanity light fixture is compatible with your existing wiring and location.

  2. Prepare the Mounting Bracket: Some new fixtures come with a mounting bracket. Attach it to the electrical box in the wall or ceiling using the provided screws.


4. Connect the Wiring

  1. Match the Wires: Connect the corresponding wires from the fixture to the house wiring.

    • Black to Black (Hot): Connect the black wire from the fixture to the black wire in the electrical box.

    • White to White (Neutral): Connect the white wire from the fixture to the white wire in the electrical box.

    • Green/Bare to Ground: Connect the green or bare wire from the fixture to the ground wire in the electrical box or to the metal box (if it's grounded).

  2. Use Wire Nuts: Twist the wire nuts onto the connections to secure the wires, and wrap them with electrical tape for added safety.

  3. Check Connections: Ensure all connections are tight and secure.


5. Attach the New Fixture

  1. Mount the Fixture: Lift the new light fixture into place, aligning it with the mounting bracket.

    • If necessary, use screws or bolts to secure the fixture to the bracket.

  2. Tighten the Screws: Make sure all screws are tightened securely to avoid any sagging or instability.


6. Install the Bulbs and Glass Cover

  1. Insert Light Bulbs: Install the appropriate light bulbs into the new fixture.

  2. Add Glass Cover: If the fixture has a glass cover, secure it in place using the provided clips or screws.


7. Turn the Power Back On

  1. Flip the Circuit Breaker: Go back to the electrical panel and turn the circuit breaker back on.

  2. Test the Fixture: Turn on the light switch to make sure the new fixture is working properly.


Tips:

  • Check Fixture Wattage: Ensure the new fixture matches the wattage and type of bulbs your electrical system can handle.

  • Read Manufacturer Instructions: Some light fixtures have specific installation instructions, so always refer to the manual.

  • Use a Stepladder: For higher vanity lights, make sure to use a steady stepladder to avoid accidents.

  • Secure Wiring: Ensure there are no exposed wires and all connections are properly insulated.

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