Replace Porch Light

Help Around the House : Episode ARH-253 -- More Projects »
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Help Around the House host Henry Harrison shows how to replace an outdoor light that was removed so siding could be installed. On his elbow grease scale of one to four, Harrison gives this project a one.

Tools:

pliers
voltage detector
wire stripper
flat-head screwdriver
Phillips-head screwdriver
safety glasses
mounting bracket
lighting fixture
wire nuts
screws
wires
electrical tape

Steps:

1. Turn off power at breaker box and double-check the outlet to make sure it's off using the voltage detector.

2. Remove screws from electrical box and remove. Extend the wires if needed. Cut extra wire to length and strip about 3/4-inch of insulation from the ends. Use color-coded wire for extensions so your new wires match up with the existing ones.

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Figure A
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Figure B
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Figure C
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Figure D
3. Attach new wire to old and twist together with pliers, then snug it up with a wire cap. Wrap wires together tightly with electrical tape just below the wire nut (figure A).

4. Slide original plate over wire extensions (figure B) and secure to wall using original screw holes.

5. Thread wires through hole of new mounting bracket and attach to plate using screws (figure C).

6. Connect the wires to the appropriate ones on the fixtures, tuck the excess wire back into the mounting plate and move fixture into position (figure D). Line up holes and attach fixture using screws. Turn power back on and test the fixture.