Proper lighting is needed for both the interior and exterior parts of any home to be complete. Floodlights to be precise are very bright and serve many purposes including offering maximum lighting and security. In most case, electricians are responsible for fixing floodlights.
However, with determination and a little effort, you can fix them alone and cut some costs in the long run. While it is true that the procedure is a little bit riskier than many other DIY practices, you should be able to get over the line safely by following the steps that I am going to provide in this article. Here is how to wire a floodlight to an existing switch.
Step 1: Preparation
The preparation stage is as important as any other stage when connecting a floodlight to an existing switch. It is at this stage that you collect every tool and materials that you will need for this project. You also need to decide what type of floodlight you want to install depending on your needs. Today, many designs and brands of floodlights are available with all having varying light intensity. Here are some basics tools and materials that you need when wiring a floodlight to an existing switch:
- 1/2 –inch-diameter conduit
- Right angle conduit connectors (preferably metals ones)
- Extension box
- Screws and screwdrivers
It is also at the preparation stage that you need to ensure your site is safe for use. Clear any unnecessary materials from the surface and cut off electricity supply to the switch that you want to fix the floodlight. Also, wear protective gears such as an overall, gloves and an electrician’s headgear.
Step 2: Start with the Extension Box
Once you are in your protective gear and have all your requirements in place, it is time to start working. Start by mounting the plate that comes with the extension box on the wall where you want to fix your floodlight using screws. When you purchase an extension box, it will come together with the screws so you do not have to worry. Take the 1/2- inch-diameter conduit and attach it to the extension plate that you have already mounted on the wall. Finally, use your screwdriver and screws to fasten the upper part of the extension box onto the plate.
Step 3: Onto the Conduit
This is a tricky but manageable stage so you have to be very keen. First, take the measurements from the top of your extension box to the upper parts (ceiling or roof) of your house/garage. From the measurements, subtract 1 ½ inch and mark the spot. Take a piece of conduit and smoothen any sharp blurs that may be there. Take a right-angled conduit connector and fix on the conduit then connect the part to your extension box. Place a conduit hanger and screw it into the spot that you marked above so that the conduit lies perfectly in place. When wiring a floodlight to an existing switch, remember to make a channel that the wires will use to connect the switch to the floodlight easily.
Step 4: Pull Wires the Wires
After installing the conduit, the next step is to fasten a cable connector to the hole that you made in the previous stage. Again, you will use your screwdriver and screws to fasten the connector in place. It is at this stage that you will also need to install the round outlet box using galvanized decking screws.
The next step is to use an electrician’s tape to attach the black, white and green electrical wires to a fish tape and pull through the right-angle conduit connector and the other installed parts. Be careful at the junction box as you will also need to make some connections as well.
Step 5: Connect the Floodlight
After using the fish tape to successfully pull the wires through the conduit connections, it is time to install the floodlight. Use a utility knife to trim the edges of the cables and connect them to the floodlight. If you have never done this before, you can refer to the directions provided by the manufacturer. Finally, connect the power cables to the existing switch and assemble the floodlight. Use an electrician’s tape to mask any naked wires and check the connections once again to ascertain that you got everything right. Turn on the switch and observe your floodlight light your home.
Conclusion
To the many people inquiring on how to wire a floodlight to an existing switch, I hope this article helps you to answer some questions and help you in the long run. Remember, it is only by having the right tools and following the right procedure that you will be successful here.
