How to Hang a Chandelier

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  • 2 to 4 hours
  • $20 to $30, plus the cost of the chandelier

Difficulty: Easy to moderate You’ll likely need help hoisting up the fixture, but the rest of the project is very straightforward

Replacing old, outdated light fixtures is an easy, effective way to update the look and ambiance of a room. New lights can add subtle style, create an architectural focal point or simply provide better illumination. Feeling apprehensive about working with electricity? Relax. Switching out old fixtures is perfectly safe and straightforward. In most cases, you simply attach the new fixture to the existing wires. Just remember to turn off the power at the main electrical panel.

Here, we’ll show how to replace a dining-room pendant light with a stylish new chandelier. In many ways, this installation is similar to replacing other types of light fixtures, except for one significant difference: Standard electrical boxes have a maximum load rating of 50 pounds. Most full-size chandeliers are too heavy to hang from a standard box. Therefore, if your new fixture weighs more than 50 pounds, you must install an appropriate support system.

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Helpful Info

Ask This Old House: Lowering a Chandelier
Skill Builder: How to Rewire and Hang an Old Light Fixture
Article: Dim All the Lights Quietly
Article: 10 Wiring Problems Solved

Need More Info? Ask a question on Electrical & Lighting

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