Replacing a light fixture is one of those projects that you may think is easy and you can DIY (do-it-yourself). Updating old, buzzing light fixtures with new LED illumination is energy-efficient and smart, but not something you or your janitorial staff should do on their own. The job considered easy and affordable might be costly in the long term. Changing a light fixture requires the work of a skilled electrician, and here is why:
1. The Need to Rewire the Entire Fixture 
If you have aged, dated, or damaged wiring behind the fixture, you will need to call an electrician either way. This is because replacing old and dangerous wiring - perhaps for the entire room or wing of the building - goes far beyond the DIY range for changing a light fixture.
2. Potential Damage
Then there is the potential risk to your facility's electrical circuits. Any time new wiring or fixtures are added to a circuit, a mistake runs the risk of blowing a breaker at best or frying the entire circuit and starting an electrical fire at worst. This could lead to a costly and extensive repair instead of a simple fixture swap, and/or lead to injuries. Hiring an electrician to do the correct wiring is safe.
3. Risk of Electrocution and Other Injuries 
A catastrophic issue is the risk of electrocution. If someone is doing a "quick repair" without switching off the breaker, it drastically increases the risk that someone will be harmed by electricity. There are also other risks of injuries, like falling from a ladder or cutting your hand on the fixture, that can be avoided by calling a pro.
4. Structural and Safety Considerations
Before you attempt that DIY project, remember that light fixtures vary in weight. For example, if you install a heavy light fixture, like a chandelier, to the ceiling holding a lightweight fixture, you will risk damaging your entire ceiling or having the light fall on a future occupant.
A professional assesses the location before installation to determine whether it will support the extra weight. With their proper skills, they ensure your ceiling or wall is sturdy and properly structured to support the new light you intend to install.
5. Correct Hanging Distance 
A light fixture should not be hanging too low where people can bump their heads or too high, hence, unable to illuminate the area correctly. The proper height and illumination are especially important in the case of emergency lights, which are governed by fire codes. An electrician has the correct skills to determine the best placement for your light fixtures.
6. Installing Outdoor Light Fixtures
Not all light fixtures can be installed outdoors. Exterior lights must be rated to withstand weather and environmental conditions. Your electrician understands which light fixtures are safe and best for outdoor space and exactly where to install them.
7. Warranty and NEC Specifications 
When buying an electrical fixture, the instructions in the manual often dictate that you should get professional help from an electrician. If your light fixture fails and the manufacturer finds out it was not installed by an electrician, you may not be compensated under the warranty.
The electrical fixtures also need to be done according to NEC specifications, and only a professional understands the specifications well.
Bottom Line
Electrical work should be done by someone in the electrical profession. A professional will perform the work to a high standard following the NEC specifications. Your facility deserves new, gently glowing, low-heat, energy-efficient LED light fixtures, but avoid putting yourself or others in danger by going the cheap way of changing the light fixture without the proper qualifications.
If you are in a geographical area that Lighting Services, Inc. services, we would be proud to become your go-to lighting replacement resource. Contact us to learn more.
