DIY Sat. #143 – Converting Can Lights into Pendant Lights (Video)
Entry #2269, April 6, 2013
Happy DIY Saturday and welcome to Stagetecture’s new look! Today I thought it only fitting to talk about beautifying your kitchen or bath can lights with new pendant lighting. In many homes can lights may not be lending enough light or you might prefer the upscale look of a pendant fixture. Today – get easy steps to switch out the old pendants and install modern pendant lighting.
Image via: Andrew Howard
Watch a video that shows you step by step how to change your lighting fixtures.
How to Convert a Can Light to a Pendant Light
Link to You Tube video –> How to Convert a Can light to a Pendant light
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Step by Step – How to Convert a Can Light to a Pendant Light
Thanks HGTV for this step by step guide on how to change out a recessed can light to a pendant lighting fixture.
Image via: ML Interior Design
Materials Needed:
recessed-fixture converter kit
small ceiling medallion
hanging light fixture
circuit tester
Phillips-head screwdriver
painter’s tape
ladder
Purchase a recessed-fixture converter kit, ceiling medallion and light fixture.
Directions:
1. Select Recessed Light to Convert
Choose a location to hang new light fixture. Turn off power for this location by switching off breaker.
2. Remove Recessed Fixture
Remove existing recessed fixture by twisting out light bulb, turning and removing casing and releasing clips that hold recessed light shell to socket. Leave existing socket in place.
3. Install Recessed Fixture Converter
Follow kit instructions to install converter. Use circuit tester to ensure power is off.
4. Prepare New Fixture
Prepare to hang new light fixture by connecting cap to fixture with chain link. Thread wires through fixture stem at cap and ceiling medallion center.
Image via: DIY Network
5. Connect Wiring
Join wires of the converter kit to corresponding wires of new fixture, following light fixture directions.
6. Test Connection
Install light bulb and switch on power at breaker to test that wiring has been connected properly. Confirm and switch off breaker.
7. Tape Ceiling Medallion
Attach ceiling medallion with clean-release tape. This temporarily secures medallion in place while finishing installation of fixture. Tip: Typically the hole left by a recessed fixture is larger than most caps, making necessary the use of a ceiling medallion to cover difference. A medallion is not needed if installing a ceiling-mount fixture.
8. Complete Installation of Fixture
Following directions for specific fixture used, complete installation and attach fixture cap flush to ceiling. Remove tape. Switch power on at circuit breaker.
For more DIY ideas on Stagetecture, & Stagetecture’s YouTube Channel, click here.
