New Year, New Home Series- Let There Be Light

Sometimes the idea of dabbling with fixtures or electrical wires can seem daunting.  However with the right tools and know-how it's something that most  DIY challenged can accomplish.  Lighting makes a huge difference in the atmosphere of a room.  Simply changing out a light bulb can help a small room feel bigger!  Here are some ways you can change up the lighting in your home to give a room a whole new feel.

Change the light bulbs 

 

It may not seem like much but in truth it can make a world of difference.  Traditional halogen bulbs tend to dim over time, and we don't even notice until we change them out.  Try switching out your old bulbs for energy efficient LEDs.  They last around 18 years, take no time to warm up, and come in many different colors.  Plus, they can save you around $1.70 per year per bulb in energy costs!

Add a dimmer

This can be especially helpful in rooms where ambiance is important, such as a bedroom or dining room.  Changing your switch out can be done in just about 15 minutes. You'll need a dimmer switch, a screwdriver, a circuit tester, 3 twist-on wire caps, a wire cutter, and a wire stripper.  Watch this video to see step by step instructions on how to install one.

Light up the kitchen

Rewiring your entire kitchen to add accent lights under your cabinets can be a slow and expensive process.  Try adding battery powered slim lights like these to add a soft glow to your counter areas.

Change out the fixtures

 

Admit it- you've been dying to get rid of that boob-shaped bowl that your house's previous owner installed for quite some time now.  Pick out a new fixture and grab these tools:

• Pliers
• Screwdriver
• Circuit Tester
• Wire Cutter/ Stripper
• Wire Caps

Start by turning off the circuit breaker for the area where your fixture is.  Double check that it is the right breaker by flipping the light switch on and off.  Carefully unscrew the light fixture.  Marvel at the mass of bugs that has accumulated.  Remove the light bulb(s).

Use a circuit tester to make sure all wires are dead.  Remove the wire caps or electrical tape that holds together the wires of the old fixture to the installed wires, and carefully remove the fixture from the ceiling.

If necessary, use a wire stripper to expose the wires on the new fixture.  Attach the wires on the fixture to the corresponding wires in the wall or ceiling: black to black and white to white.  See instructions included with your fixture for what to do with the ground (green) wire.

Position the new fixture, secure with screws or included hardware, and add light bulbs.

Still have questions? Stop by Baller Hardware and let our friendly and knowledgeable associates help you with every step of the process.