Swapping out a ceiling fan with a standard light fixture is a relatively easy project, since you can use the same electrical box and circuit wiring to secure and connect the new fixture. If installed properly, a ceiling fan is mounted to a special heavy-duty electrical box that is fastened directly to a ceiling joist or secured between two joists with a metal brace or piece of lumber blocking. This setup is strong enough for most light fixtures; just be sure to give the mounting a thorough inspection before hanging the fixture. Because ceiling fans can be quite heavy, it's a good idea to have a helper on hand for removing the fan and hanging the new fixture.
Instructions
1. Turn off the power to the fan's circuit at the home's service panel (breaker box). Test the fan to confirm the power is off.
2. Remove the fan blades, light bulbs, and any other parts to simplify removal. Loosen and slide down the decorative cover at the ceiling to expose the electrical box. Test the wires with a circuit tester to confirm the power is off, then disconnect the fan wires from the circuit wires by unscrewing the wire nuts (plastic wire connectors).
3. Remove any mounting bolts, support brackets, anchors or other fasteners to remove the fan completely.
4. Install the mounting strap (if applicable) for the new fixture onto the electrical box. Connect the circuit wires to the fixture's wire leads or screw terminals following the manufacturer's wiring diagram. Carefully tuck the wires into the electrical box and mount the fixture as directed.
5. Restore power to the circuit and test the fixture.
Tags: circuit wires, confirm power, hanging fixture,