Photos from our own jobs. See more of our work.
What the job involves
Swapping a fixture sounds simple, but a few details decide whether it goes smoothly. The new fixture has to be the right weight for the box it hangs from, the box has to be securely fastened, and the wires in the ceiling or wall have to be in good shape.
We turn off power at the breaker, test that it is dead, remove the old fixture, and look at what is behind it before we hang the new one.
- Condition of the wires and whether insulation is brittle
- Whether the electrical box is rated for the weight of the new fixture
- Matching the mounting hardware to the fixture style
- Switch type and dimmer compatibility with the bulbs
Why it matters in Arizona
Heat is hard on wiring insulation. In attics and in outdoor fixtures, the wire insulation can become dry and crumble when it is touched. Exterior fixtures face sun and monsoon rain, so they should be rated for wet or damp locations and sealed with caulk where they meet the wall.
Older Sun City homes often have original fixtures with aging wiring behind them, and some have aluminum or two-wire runs without a ground. Newer builds usually have more modern wiring, but fixtures are often builder grade and look dated. Either way, we take a close look at what is behind the fixture before swapping.
How a visit goes
We confirm which fixtures you want replaced and whether you have supplied them or want help choosing. For each, we kill the circuit, remove the old fixture, and inspect the box and wiring.
Then we install a proper mounting bracket, connect the wires with correctly sized connectors, secure the new fixture, and install bulbs. For exterior fixtures we seal around the base. We restore power, test the switch and any dimmer, and make sure the fixture sits flat against the surface. Old fixtures are hauled away if you want.
Photos help. If you send pictures of the old fixture and the ceiling or wall around it before the visit, we can usually tell you in advance whether the swap is simple or whether the box will need attention.
What affects the cost
The number of fixtures and their complexity set the price. A simple flush-mount is quick. A heavy chandelier, a ceiling fan with a remote, or a fixture at the top of a two-story entry takes more time and equipment.
A box that needs to be replaced or supported, patching paint around a larger or smaller fixture, and hauling away old ones add to it. You get a free estimate and an upfront price.
When it needs a specialist
If the wiring behind the fixture is damaged, scorched, or does not match what the new fixture needs, or if you want a fixture where no wiring exists, you need a licensed electrician. We do not move fixtures to new locations, add circuits, or work on panels. Low-voltage and landscape lighting systems with transformers are a separate trade as well.
“We really appreciated the work that Nathan did for us. He did a great job! He was recommended by a neighbor who was impressed by him also.”