Light Fixture and Ceiling Fan Replacement: what a handyman does
A handyman can swap an existing light fixture or ceiling fan for a new one at the same location, using the wiring and box already there. New wiring, new circuits, moved fixtures, unsafe boxes or damaged wiring go to a licensed independent electrician, and some towns require permits for electrical work.
Jobs we take on
Tap one to add it to your list.
- Replace a flush-mount or semi-flush ceiling light on the existing box
- Replace a bathroom vanity light or light bar in the same location
- Replace a pendant or chandelier and set the chain or rod length
- Replace a ceiling fan with a new fan on an existing fan-rated box
- Replace an exterior wall lantern or porch light and seal around it
- Assemble and hang a fan's blades and light kit, and tighten them for a wobble
- Replace a pull-chain fixture with a fixture of the same type
- Swap bulbs or sockets to LED where the fixture allows it
- Remove an old fixture and touch up the ceiling around the canopy
Signs it is time to call
- A fixture is outdated, cracked or missing a shade, but the light itself works normally
- A ceiling fan wobbles or hums, often from loose blade or bracket screws
- A pull chain has broken or a socket no longer holds a bulb
- A new fixture's label says it needs 90 degree C wire and your wiring is older than 1985
- A fixture box looks loose or moves when you push the fixture
What is not a handyman job
New wiring, new circuits, moving a fixture to a new spot, adding switches, new recessed lighting, aluminum or damaged wiring, and boxes that are not secured to framing go to a licensed independent electrician. A box that is not fan-rated for a ceiling fan also needs an electrician. Winnetka requires a permit for new branch circuits, and other towns have their own rules. If a fixture buzzes, sparks or smells hot, shut off its breaker and call an electrician.
Plumbing, electrical and roofing go to licensed independent contractors.
What a visit looks like
- The breaker is switched off and the wires are tested before a fixture is touched.
- We check how the old fixture is attached and whether the box is secure before the new one goes on.
- You supply the new fixture or fan. Keep its instructions handy, because mounting needs differ by model.
- If the wiring or box is not suitable, we stop and tell you what an electrician needs to do.
Common questions
Can a ceiling fan go where a light is now?
Only if the box can take it. A fan is heavier than a light and moves, so the box must be labeled for ceiling fans and fastened to a joist or brace. Standard light boxes are not enough and can loosen over time. If the box is not fan-rated, replacing it is electrician work, after which we can hang the fan.
Why does my new fixture warn about wire temperature?
Some fixtures are labeled for supply wire rated at 90 degrees C. They generate enough heat to damage the insulation on older wire, and wiring installed before 1985 may not be rated for it. If you are unsure, choose a fixture without that label or have an electrician check the wire.
Will a fixture swap need a permit?
Rules are set by each village, so we cannot say for every address. Winnetka requires a permit for new branch circuits, and its permit desk at 847-716-3527 can say how it treats a fixture replacement. New circuits always go to a licensed independent electrician, who also handles permits for that work.
Can you add a light where there is none?
No. Adding a light, switch or outlet means new wiring, which is licensed electrician work. We replace fixtures only where one already exists, using the existing wiring. Once an electrician has run new wiring, we can help with the carpentry, patching and painting around it.