Install Ceiling Light Without Outlet Box

Getting the wiring ready mark and cut the holes for the electrical boxes but don t install the boxes until the wires are run.

Install ceiling light without outlet box.

Light fixtures that simply protrude from the ceiling or wall without a junction box are a fire waiting to happen. Standard electrical boxes used for wall outlets are installed for ceiling outlets in garages sheds and workshops. Most building codes require ceiling fans to be mounted on special fan rated boxes which are made of metal or strong plastic and have deep threaded holes for the mounting screws. Or other heavy light fixture in an existing ceiling requires.

The cost to install a ceiling light fan switch isn t much and can save you a lot of work in the future. Installing a ceiling fan chandelier or other heavy light fixture in an existing ceiling requires the right junction box j box. Or if a fixture meets all of the criteria of a box but lacks a cable clamp don t use it without a box. If you have an old light fixture that is not attached to the wall or ceiling with a junction box you should repair the light fixture by removing it installing a junction box and installing a new fixture.

The box must be mounted firmly either by attaching it directly to a framing member or by using a fan rated brace. In contrast to new work boxes which are screwed to the wall studs before drywall is hung old work boxes hang on the drywall with clamps built in to the box. Installing a remodeling box is something you can easily do with just a few. For example if you have a light fixture that doesn t need a box for mounting but the wiring connections are not protected by some kind of cover then you can t use the fixture without a junction box.

If your light fixture weighs more than 50 lbs it has to be supported independent of the electrical box. Trace the outline of the back of the box on the drywall using a pencil. The national electric code requires that all fans 35 pounds and over must be supported with an outlet box or outlet box system that is listed for ceiling fan support. An easy solution is to install a fan brace box available from home centers and hardware stores that s designed to be installed without cutting any additional holes in your ceiling.

In some cases a ceiling outlet is installed to plug in the cord for a hanging light. The procedure for installing a remodel junction box calls for a pencil drywall saw and screwdriver.