In most cases, if you want to install a plug-in light in the ceiling of your basement, you will need to install an outlet mounted to the joists. Most building codes will not allow you to run a permanent extension cord from the ceiling to a wall outlet. Therefore, after you hang your light, you must have an electrical outlet where you can plug it in.
Instructions
1. Locate the joist where you want to install the light fixture. The exact process for securing the light varies, depending on the fixture. However, most light fixtures equipped with electrical cords have two or more holes located on the back of the fixture. After securing the screws in the ceiling with a screwdriver, hang the fixture on the screws. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for hanging your specific fixture.
2. Screw a metal electrical outlet to the joist approximately 5 inches away from the light.
3. Measure the path between the electrical box and the breaker panel. Cut a piece of electrical wire long enough to reach between the two. Secure the wire to the joist, using wire retainers.
4. Turn off the main breaker in the breaker panel, remove the front cover from the and feed the electrical wires into the panel.
5. Secure the bare ground wire and the green wire to the ground bus bar. Secure the white wire to the neutral bus bar, and secure the black wire to the breaker you want to control the circuit. Place the cover back on the panel.
6. Wire the to the green screw on the electrical outlet. Wire the black wire to the ground screw in the metal electrical box. Wire the white wire and the to the wire screws on the side of the electrical outlet.
7. Secure the electrical outlet inside the electrical box, using a screwdriver, and place the outlet cover on the box.
8. Turn on the main breaker and plug the light into the outlet.
Tags: electrical outlet, black wire, breaker panel, green wire, main breaker, metal electrical