How to Install Flush Mount Ceiling Lights

Learn how to install flush mount ceiling light fixtures in your bedroom, living room, bathroom, and other areas of your home with our step-by-step guide!


Skill
Intermediate
Time
Few Hours
Cost
Less Than $500
Black flush mount light fixture installed on ceiling

What You Need for This Project

Tools

Materials

  1. 1

    Turn Off Power & Remove Old Light Fixture

    Before you start, make sure to turn off the power at the breaker switch to the area you’ll be working on.

    Tip: Leave a note taped to the panel to ensure no one turns it back on by accident.

  2. Steps:

close up of breaker box
  1. 2

    Remove the Bracket on the Junction Box

    Depending on the type of light fixture purchased, you may have to remove the bracket attached to the junction box.
    There are three mount types:
    • Threaded bolt in the centre of the bracket.
    • Two screws on either side of the bracket with the screw heads facing down.
    • Two screws with the screw heads facing up.
    If your new light fixture doesn’t match your old mount type, you’ll have to remove the bracket from the junction box and change the screws.

  2. Steps:

man removing bracket from junction box
  1. 3

    Wire the New Light Fixture

    Most fixtures have three wires: grounding wire (green), hot wire that carries the electricity to the light (black), and neutral wire that carries the electricity away from the light (white).

    Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and connect the corresponding wires from the fixture to the wires in the junction box.

  2. Steps:

man wiring light fixture
  1. 4

    Mount the Base of Your Light Fixture & Install Light Bulbs

    Line up the base of the light fixture, making sure the screws are lined up as well, and twist the base clockwise into place until the screws are properly connected. Tighten the screws with a screwdriver as needed to ensure the light fixture is secure and flush against the ceiling.

    Install the correct size light bulb in the fixture’s sockets.

  2. Steps:

man installing light bulbs into base of flush mount light fixture.
  1. 5

    Assemble the Dome or Shade

    Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and install the dome or shade covering, connecting it to the base of the fixture.

  2. Steps:

man placing dome over light fixture

How To Terms

Tools, products, materials, techniques, building codes, and local regulations change; therefore, Lowe's assumes no liability for omissions, errors, or the outcome of any project. The reader must always exercise reasonable caution, follow current codes and regulations that may apply, and is urged to consult with a licensed professional if in doubt about any procedures.

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