Installing A Ceiling Fan In Six Easy Steps

By Author: Matt Morgan
Total Articles: 74
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Installing a ceiling fan is a relatively simple do-it-yourself project. In addition, adding a ceiling fan to your home can help to increase its value while also making it more pleasant for you to live. So, if you have a light that you would like to replace with a ceiling fan fixture instead, just follow these simple steps and you will soon have a nice, cool breeze in your home.

Step #1: Deenergeize the Circuit

Of course, safety is always the main concern when doing any electrical project. Therefore, the first thing you need to do is deenergize the circuit so you do not get shocked while changing out the light. To accomplish this, you can either turn off the main switch to your home, which will shut off all of the house's eletricitly, or you will need to trip the circuit that provides electricity to the light you are replacing. Shutting off all of the electricity is the surest way to avoid getting a shock, but it will also make it impossible for you to use any outlets or lighting. Therefore, most people prefer to simply trip the correct circuit breaker instead.

Step #2: Remove the Old Light

Next, ...
... you will need to take out the light that you are replacing. Most lights are simply screwed or bolted into the ceiling and can be easily removed once the cover is taken off. After you have removed the cover, lower the fixture and disconnect all of the wires. Using pieces of masking tape, mark each wire so you can more easily identify them when it comes time to install the ceiling fan.

Step #3: Read the Instructions

Even if you have done electrical work in the past, it is best to review the manufacturer's instructions in order to make certain you know the proper color-coding for the wiring.

Step #4: Wire the Fan

Once you have determined the proper wiring configuration, connect the wires with wirenuts and make sure the connections are all tight and secure. With the wiring properly in place, push them into the junction box.

Step #5: Attach the Fan

Now, it is time to attach the fan to the junction box or to the hangers. Again, you should review the manufacturer's instructions to make certain you do this correctly.

Step #6: Reenergize the Circuits

With everything in place, you can now reenergize the circuits and make certain everything is in proper running order. Test all of the functions of the ceiling fan in order to be certain all of the connections are in proper working order.

If you aren't comfortable with performing the wiring necessary to complete this job, you might want to consider taking a few electrical courses. After taking a couple classes, you will likely feel inspired to tackle some even tougher jobs around the house.