Changing a light fitting can seem like a daunting task if you’ve never done it before, but it’s actually one of those DIY jobs that’s easier than you might think. With a bit of patience and the right tools, you can swap out your old light fixture for something new in no time.
Whether you're giving your space a modern upgrade or just replacing a faulty fixture, here’s how to do it safely and efficiently.
Safety first: Turning off the power
Before you even think about unscrewing anything, you need to make sure the power is off. Electricity is no joke, so the first step is to head to your fuse box and switch off the circuit that controls the light you’re working on. If you’re not 100% sure which switch to turn off, it’s safer to just cut the power to the whole house. Better safe than sorry!
Once the power’s off, double-check it’s definitely off by turning the light switch on and off a couple of times. If nothing happens, you’re good to go. It’s also worth keeping a torch or your phone handy for extra light, especially if the room you're working in is now pitch black.
What you'll need to change your light fitting
You don’t need much to change a light fitting, but having the right tools at hand will make the job a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:
A flathead or Phillips screwdriver (depending on the screws on your existing fitting)
Wire cutters/strippers
Electrical tape
A stepladder (if you’re working with ceiling lights)
Most new light fittings come with everything you need in terms of screws and fixings, but it’s always good to double-check you’ve got everything before you start.
We have a great selection of tools and accessories in stock if you’re missing any of the essentials. Our team can also help you choose the right type of light fitting if you’re not sure what’s best for your space.
Step 1: How to remove the old light fitting
Now that you’ve got the power off and your tools ready, it’s time to remove the old fitting. Start by unscrewing the cover or decorative plate on the existing light. This will expose the wiring and screws that hold the fixture in place.
Next, carefully unscrew the fitting from the ceiling or wall. You might need to support the fitting with one hand as you remove the screws, as some fittings can be a bit heavy. Once the screws are out, gently pull the fitting away from the ceiling to expose the wiring behind it.
You should see three main wires: a live wire (usually brown or red), a neutral wire (blue or black), and an earth wire (green/yellow). If your house is older, you might have slightly different colours, so be mindful of this. Take a photo of the wiring before you disconnect anything – this will make it much easier when you come to wire up the new fitting!
Carefully disconnect the wires by loosening the screws on the terminal block (that’s the little plastic piece where the wires connect). Once the wires are free, you can remove the old light fitting completely.
Step 2: How to install the new light fitting
Now for the fun part – installing your new light fitting! Start by connecting the wires to the terminal block on the new fixture. Follow the same pattern as the old one: live wire to live, neutral to neutral, and earth to earth. Most modern fittings will have labels or colour-coded terminals to guide you, so it’s straightforward.
Make sure the connections are secure but don’t over-tighten the screws, as you don’t want to damage the wires. Once the wires are all connected, carefully tuck them back into the ceiling or wall cavity.
Next, screw the new light fitting into place. If it’s a ceiling fixture, it might be easier to get someone to hold the fitting while you screw it in, especially if it’s a bit bulky. Once it’s securely in place, attach any decorative covers or shades that came with the fitting.
Step 3: Testing and final touches
With the new light fitting installed, you’re almost done. Head back to the fuse box and turn the power back on. Once the electricity’s flowing again, flip the light switch and check that your new fitting is working as it should. If it doesn’t come on, turn off the power and double-check the wiring connections.
Assuming everything is working perfectly, all that’s left to do is tidy up any loose wires with electrical tape and enjoy your handiwork. If your fitting came with adjustable parts, like an extendable arm or rotating shades, now’s the time to make sure everything looks just the way you want it.
And that’s it – job done! Changing a light fitting isn’t as complicated as it might seem, and with the right tools and a bit of care, you can give any room in your home a quick and easy refresh.
Need help? We've got you covered
Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or something more practical, you’ll find everything you need at Youngs – from fittings to fixings, we’ve got you covered. Happy DIY-ing!
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