Installing a can light is a finished ceiling can be done to add additional lighting or to replace an existing light fixture. Finished ceilings are typically covered with drywall that will need to be cut to the size that is needed for the new can light. Installing a can light in a finished ceiling will require cutting holes for the fixtures and running wires. You can install a can light in a finished ceiling by first determining where the light will be located.
Instructions
1. Disconnect the power to the room you are working in by turning of the circuit at the circuit box.
2. Locate the area where you want to install the can light. Your can use the location of an existing light fixture or it can be in a new location altogether.
3. Remove the existing light from the ceiling and disconnect the electrical wires.
4. Draw an outline for the can light if the fixture is bigger than the existing hole. A template should have been included with the can light. Place the template on the ceiling and trace around it with a pencil.
5. Cut out the hole using a drywall saw. If there is no existing fixture you will need to drill a small hole near the edge of the outline to insert the drywall saw. Cut around the outline and then remove the piece of drywall.
6. Prepare the electrical wiring for the electrical box used with the light fixture. If there is no existing wiring you will need to fish it through the ceiling or run it down from the attic.
7. Trim about an inch of the insulation for each wire using a pair of wire cutters. You may need to cut of the ends of the existing wires to start with a fresh end.
8. Connect each of the wires together inside the electrical box. Twist each wire together and then place a wire cover over the top. Make sure you are twisting the same color wires together. The black wire is the hot wire, the white wire is the neutral wire and the green wire is the ground wire.
9. Insert the electrical box and can light into the hole and make sure it is secure.
10. Push in the clips that are located inside the fixture to lock it to the ceiling.
11. Insert a bulb into the fixture and then turn on the power to see if the light works correctly.
Tags: light fixture, existing light, finished ceiling, light finished ceiling, will need, each wire, existing light fixture