Last Updated on October 9, 2022 by Barry Gray
Ceiling fans are both a decorative feature and a functional one. A ceiling fan does not only cool rooms down, but they save you money by lowering your home’s energy bills. A ceiling fan with a light feature, however, has a whole new layer of functionality!
Many light kits and fixtures can be used interchangeably with ceiling fans. Ultimately, this depends on the brand and model of a ceiling fan. However, by using the same brand to find a replacement light kit and fixture, homeowners can ensure a replacement fixture is compatible with their fan.
If you want to replace the light fixture connected to your ceiling fan, we’re going to break down what you need to know. After all, there are a few factors that need to be considered before attempting this process. Once we’ve discussed these aspects, we’ll explain how you can change your ceiling fan’s light fixture!
Can Ceiling Fan Light Fixtures Be Changed?
There are a wide variety of ceiling fans available today. Ceiling fans are a strong design focal point while also playing a functional role. Not only will ceiling fans create a draft in any space, but they can lower the energy bills in your home. However, ceiling fans that support light kits add a new level of functionality!
In fact, different fans incorporate lights in different ways. Modern ceiling fans with light kits will be sleek with minimalist lamps. However, you’ll also be able to find rustic ceiling fans with more prominent light fixtures. However, many homeowners have wondered whether it’s possible to change the light fixture on a ceiling fan.
You’ll be relieved to know that many ceiling fan light kits can be used interchangeably. While this ultimately depends on your ceiling fan’s brand and model, you’re sure to find plenty of light fixtures and kits that are compatible with your fan. Naturally, this will allow you to update the appearance of your fan’s light fixture to better suit your interior design.
The best way to locate a compatible replacement light fixture and light kit is to stick with the brand of your current fixture. Ultimately, this will ensure that the replacement fixture is fully compatible with your ceiling fan. It’ll also make the replacement fixture easier to install, which can be done in six easy steps!
6 Steps To Change A Ceiling Fan’s Light Fixture
As we explained above, it is possible to change the light fixture of a ceiling fan. You’ll be able to change a ceiling fan’s light fixture in six simple steps. In order to do this, you will need to purchase a new light kit and fixture.
1. Turn Power Off
When replacing the light fixture connected to your ceiling fan, you’ll need to work with wiring. Due to this, you need to ensure that you turn the power connected to the fan off. This means switching the fan off with the appropriate light switch or controller.
However, you will also need to turn the power in that room off. To do this, you’ll need to locate the breaker panel in your home. You can then turn the appropriate circuit breaker off to ensure that the ceiling fan is not powered. Once you’ve completed these steps, you can turn the circuit breaker on again.
2. Remove Current Light Fixture
Once you’ve turned the power off, it’s time to start disconnecting the existing light fixture. You’ll want to start by removing any globes and light bulbs attached to the fixture. Of course, this will vary depending on the type of light fixture you’re using.
To remove the current light fixture, you’ll need to locate the screws used to hold it in place. You will then need to use the appropriate screwdriver to remove these screws so that the fixture can be disconnected. Once the mountain screws have been removed, you can gently lower the light fixture from the fan’s motor. However, there will still be wires connected to your light!
3. Disconnect Existing Wires
If your ceiling fan has a light fixture, there will be two prominent wires. You will be able to tell which one is connected to your light and which is connected to the fan’s motor. Once you’ve located these wires, you will need to remove the wire caps and disconnect the wires.
The wire nuts or caps should be twisted in an anti-clockwise direction until you can remove them. Be sure to set these aside, as you’ll need them later on in this process. Once these caps have been removed, you’ll be able to remove the light kit.
4. Remove Light Kit
With the wire caps removed, you’ll be able to separate the wires and remove the remaining light fixture. Your used light kit can be set aside at this point. Once you’ve done this, you’ll want to label the two wires. This will allow you to easily reconnect them in the following steps as you attach the new light kit.
5. Attach New Light Kit
It’s finally time to start attaching your new light key. Essentially, this is a reverse of the previous steps. You’ll need to start by reconnecting your labeled wires. You’ll also need to reattach the wire caps you previously removed and set aside.
6. Install New Light Fixture
Once your wires and light kit have been attached, it’s time to install your new light fixture. The manufacturer of your fixture will provide specific instructions on how to attach this. It may be as simple as screwing it into place! Once you’ve attached the new light fixture, you can reconnect the power at your breaker panel and test your new light out!
Conclusion
As we explained in this article, many light kits can be used interchangeably. Of course, this means that homeowners can replace their ceiling fan’s existing light fixture. Whether your existing light fixture broke or you’re looking for a new style, replacing your ceiling fan’s light fixture can breathe some new life into a room!
