Hanging a light and plugging it into an outlet is an exercise in safety as much as design.
Wiring a hanging lighting fixture to an existing outlet is similar to hanging a plant, with the added responsibility of securing the power cord away from damage and traffic. Finding a secure ceiling or overhead mounting location is key, and ensuring that it's reasonably close to an outlet. Using a couple simple tools and ceiling mounting support, hanging an overhead light is a relatively simple exercise.
Instructions
1. Run a stud finder across the ceiling and find a rafter or cross member that can support the weight of the light parallel to the outlet. Mark this location with a pencil.
2. Drill a hole slightly smaller than the threaded post on the ceiling hook, using a 3/16-inch drill bit. Hand-twist the hook into the hole so that it sinks into the cross member.
3. Add one more ceiling hook near the junction point of the wall and ceiling, drilling into the cross member and screwing in the hook.
4. Weave the power cable through the light's chain, maintaining sufficient cable length to reach the outlet.
5. Hang the light from its chain on the first hook, pausing to ensure that it holds securely. Route the power cord to the next hook, creating a small droop in the line. Hang this portion of the chain from the hook.
6. Drop the power cable toward the outlet and plug in the fixture. Insert the appropriate bulbs and turn on the light to ensure functionality.
Tags: cross member, ceiling hook, into cross, into cross member, power cable, power cord