How do I Install a Chandelier in a Commercial Building?

Chandeliers are commonly used in living spaces such as dining rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchens. In addition to being common in homes, chandeliers can also be found in commercial buildings. Installing a chandelier in a commercial building adds a sense of class and sophistication to the space. Keep in mind the weight and electrical fixtures of this decorative lighting to complete the project successfully.

Ladder
Screwdriver
Support brace (as needed)
Chandelier
Pliers
Wire strippers

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off the power to the light fixture by flipping the breaker at the power supply.
- 2
  Place a ladder under the light fixture. Commercial buildings are typically much taller than homes, so they may require longer ladders. In addition, you may want to recruit a partner to hold the chandelier while you go up and down the ladder.
- 3
  Remove the old light fixture from the electrical box. Unscrew the base of the fixture with a screwdriver. Carefully lower the fixture and unscrew the wire nuts from the top of the wires.
- 4
  Check the weight requirements of the current ceiling electrical box to ensure that it is able to support the weight of the chandelier. If the chandelier weighs over 50 pounds, you may need to install a support brace in the electrical box. The brace is installed by removing the old electrical box and installing a new box with a hexagonal support brace. The brace has prongs that stick into the ceiling joists and support the heavy chandelier.
- 5
  Adjust the chain on the chandelier until it is the right height for the commercial space. Remove links from the chain with a pair of pliers.
- 6
  Remove approximately one inch of insulation sheathing from the ends of the wires on the chandelier. Use wire strippers to help you remove the sheathing.
- 7
  Match the wires of the chandelier with the wires in the ceiling electrical box. Twist together the ends of the black wires. Repeat with the white wires and ground wires. Screw a wire nut over the top of the end of the exposed wires.
- 8
  Push the wires into the electrical box in the ceiling. Screw the mounting bar of the chandelier to the electrical box with a screwdriver. Push the canopy of the chandelier up and secure it to the electrical box with a screwdriver.
- 9
  Turn on the power and install any light bulbs or shades for the chandelier.

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