Regular electrical boxes in your ceiling often are not rated to hold a ceiling fan. Ceiling fans can weigh up to 40 pounds and require specific types of boxes to hold the weight. The ceiling fan braced box is the best box to put in as it is designed to install from below. No attic access will be necessary.
Instructions
1. Remove the old electrical box from the ceiling. If your original box is screwed to the ceiling joists, remove the screw and pull the box out. If the box is nailed, place a piece of wood inside the box and hit the wood with a hammer until the box is loose enough to be pulled out. In both examples take care not to damage the electrical wires. Pull the wires from the original box and outside the hole left in the ceiling.
2. Install the ceiling fan electrical box brace. Slide the brace through the hole in the ceiling. Spread the brace to touch the ceiling joists on both sides of the hole by twisting the brace with your hand. Use an adjustable box end wrench to continue to turn the brace until tight.
3. Install the ceiling fan electrical box. Slide the U-bolt over the brace. Pull the electrical wires through a knockout in the box and slide the U-bolt into the opening at the top of the electrical box. Attach the nut to the U-bolt and tighten with pliers.
Tags: ceiling electrical, ceiling joists, electrical wires, Install ceiling, Install ceiling electrical