Kitchens typically use fluorescent lights as undercabinet task lighting. The low profile of these lights coupled with an energy efficient bulb that emits less heat, makes these fixtures ideal for tight spaces. Over time, the light fixture may cease to work due to wear on the wiring or another problem with the fixture. No matter where the fluorescent light is located, the light box can be removed and replaced for functional or aesthetic reasons.
Instructions
1. Turn off the electricity to the fluorescent light at the main circuit breaker. Flip the light switch to the fluorescent light box to ensure that the power is off.
2. Remove the decorative fluorescent light bulb covering from the light box. Most coverings slide out of place and do not require tools for removal. If the covering is not easily removed, look for and loosen any screws that might secure the bulb covering with a screwdriver.
3. Remove the fluorescent light bulbs from the light fixture. Remove any screws holding the light fixture to the ceiling or bottom of the cabinet using an electric drill with a screwdriver bit. Unscrew the wire nuts connecting the fixture wiring to the electrical wiring. Detach the wires and discard the old light box.
4. Connect the wires from the new light box to the electrical wiring by pairing the same colors together. Secure each pair by twisting the ends of the wires together and putting a wire nut over the bare wires that make the connection. Coil the wires and place them into the wall or ceiling cavity.
5. Use a stud finder to locate the joists in the ceiling and mark their location with a pencil. Align the new light box so it covers the hole in the ceiling but also allows most of screw holes to be placed directly over a joist. If the light box is underneath a cabinet, skip this step.
6. Screw through the fixture screw holes and into joist or cabinet using an electric drill. Continue installing screws until the fluorescent light fixture is securely fixed to the cabinet or ceiling. Install new fluorescent light bulbs and the decorative bulb cover for the new light box. Turn on the circuit that supplies electricity to the new fixture at the main circuit breaker.
7. Fill any screw holes from the old fixture using a putty knife. Use wood putty for cabinetry and joint compound for the ceiling. Allow the filler to dry and sand the area smooth using a fine grit sandpaper. Paint or stain the repairs as necessary using a paintbrush.
Tags: fluorescent light, light fixture, from light, screw holes, bulb covering