Chandeliers can create stunning focal points in any home. Their designs reflect opulence and luxury making them a worthy addition to any space. However, chandelier installation should also be done safely to prevent it from falling and to minimize safety hazards for you and your guests. They also need to be hung correctly to achieve the desired look and feel.
Read on to learn how to hang your chandelier safely and discover some tips for better installation and usage.
How to Safely Hang a Chandelier
How you install your chandelier goes a long way into ensuring its safety. By properly following the safety standards provided for chandelier installation you avoid breakage and falling. You’re able to use the right tools and equipment to secure the fixture to the ceiling.
Before you embark on the installation process, here are the items you’ll need:
- Pliers
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Electric tape
- Voltage tester
- Wire stripper
- Step ladder
- Chandelier
Once you’ve put all the items together, follow the steps below to safely hang your chandelier. If you’re replacing an old fixture, you’ll need a helper. Doing it alone can prove disastrous.
- Switch off the power. You can leave a note attached to the mains circuit box alerting others on the task to keep them from turning it back on.
- Climb the step ladder and use a voltage tester to confirm that no current is flowing. Remove the old fixture using a screwdriver and wrench to take off any screws and loosen the lock nuts respectively. Your assistant should help you hold the fixture at this stage to avoid breakage.
- Disconnect the wiring.
- If it’s your first time installing a chandelier, check the electrical box to confirm that it can carry the load.
- Screw all parts of the chandelier base together. Skip the light bulbs and canopy for now to enhance safety.
- Shorten the spindles where necessary using the pliers.
- Attach a mounting strip to the mounting box using the screwdriver then thread the wires through the chandelier holes or sections.
- Mount the chandelier. Have your helper hold the fixture up so you can connect the wires. Use the wire stripper to expose the wires and join them according to the stipulated codes.
- Bolt the chandelier in place. Connect the canopy and light bulbs.
- Switch on the power to test whether it works correctly and enjoy your lighting.
Where to Hang a Chandelier
Knowing where to install your ceiling lights has a significant bearing on their performance. When done correctly it can enhance the room’s practicality and heighten its visual interest. Here are some factors to consider when choosing your chandelier placement.
Home Wiring System Layout
Installing your chandelier will involve some wiring work. For this reason, where you place your chandelier shouldn’t come as an afterthought. You should decide on the positioning during construction or when remodeling your home. Remember, where you fix your ceiling box also determines your chandelier placement.
It is recommended that you discuss chandelier positioning with your contractor early on. Using a floor plan will also provide more accurate placement. Doing this will save you the cost of having to redo interior works like plastering and painting. Else, you might have to swag your chandelier which isn’t always a good look.
Floor Plan Design
In some instances, you may need to center your chandelier over furniture like dining tables. A floor plan comes in clutch in these circumstances. Always check the floor plan to ensure you leave enough space for you and your loved ones to move around.
Chandelier Height
When shopping for your light fixture, there are key factors you should consider. And, chandelier sizing is one of them. Your chandelier height should be well adjusted to cater to people passing below it and avoid obstruction.
Unlike other fixtures like floor lamps and wall sconces, these fixtures shouldn’t be along your eye line. Always place them above for a beautiful optical illusion and effect. A general rule of thumb is that your chandelier should hang at least 30 inches above the furniture. For floors, it should be installed at least 7 feet high. However, this is subject to the room’s ceiling height.
Here’s a basic guide for your chandelier height:
|
Ceiling Height (Feet) |
Chandelier Height (Inches) |
|
10 |
25 to 30 |
|
12 |
30 to 36 |
|
14 |
35 to 42 |
|
16 |
40 to 48 |
Pro Tip!
Experts recommend that you account for at least 2.5 inches of chandelier height for every additional foot of ceiling. The maximum adjustment you should make is 3 inches.
Best Practices for Hanging Your Chandelier Safely in the Ceiling
Chandeliers can be expensive. If it falls out of the ceiling, chances are you might have to buy a brand-new fixture which can be challenging. By following the practices mentioned below, you’re guaranteed to enjoy your chandelier lighting for longer.
- Check your ceiling box specifications to ensure that it can bear the weight of your chandelier. Make sure that it’s correctly installed and secured to the ceiling.
- Ensure that all your mounting hardware like the crossbar and screw collar are compatible and securely fastened together to avoid slips.
- Use the appropriate screws to mount the crossbar within the ceiling box. These usually come with the package.
- As much as you would want to, avoid spinning and turning the chandelier on its spindles. The movement can unscrew some of the hardware causing your chandelier to fall off the ceiling. Granted, the locknuts are designed to secure primary hardware components like the crossbar and screw collar.
However, you need to observe the rules. Experts recommend that when doing tasks like cleaning the fixture, you should be the one to move around instead of turning the chandelier.
- Always check the loop on the chandelier to ensure that its well-fastened and secure.
- Use the proper chain weight.
- Ensure that you always check all the connections after cleaning the light fixture to make sure that all screws are well-locked and secure.
Ensure Your Safety During Chandelier Installations
Knowing how to install your chandelier safely can help enhance your confidence during the process. Correct placement ensures not only your safety but also guarantees longevity and great performance of the light fitting.
Now that you know how to safely hang a chandelier, you can go ahead and install the fixture in your home. But, also know when to call in the pros. If you doubt your expertise, you can consult a professional for assistance in installing your chandelier.
