Pendant lights have become an incredibly popular choice for homeowners looking to add style and class to their living spaces. They can instantly brighten and transform a room, adding a touch of elegance along the way. However, just as with any other interior design element, there are common mistakes that you should avoid when installing pendant lights in your home. In this blog, we will discuss the top mistakes to avoid and provide helpful tips to ensure a successful installation.
Overlooking Electrical Safety and Wiring
Electrical safety is paramount when installing any type of lighting, and pendant lights are no exception. Overlooking electrical safety and wiring can lead to dangerous situations, such as short circuits, electrical fires, and even electrocution.
To avoid these hazards, always turn off the power at the circuit breaker before starting any electrical work. Also, ensure you install pendant lights correctly by following the manufacturer’s instructions and using proper wire connectors. We highly recommend hiring a licensed electrician to handle the wiring and installation if you are unsure about the process or lack experience in this area.
Incorrectly Calculating Cable Length and Mounting Height
Another common mistake to avoid when installing pendant lights is miscalculating the necessary cable length and mounting height. This can result in lights hanging too low or too high, disrupting the balance and aesthetic of the room.
To determine the ideal mounting height, consider the ceiling height, the size of the pendant, and the purpose of the light. Ensure that your lights are hung low enough to give adequate lighting but also high enough that they will not create any sightline obstructions or physical obstructions. Additionally, ensure there is enough cable length in case you need to make adjustments after installation.
Neglecting Load-bearing Capacity and Secure Mounting
Pendant lights come in various shapes, sizes, and weights, meaning you need to take the load-bearing capacity of your ceiling into consideration before installation. Neglecting to assess load-bearing capacity can result in lights falling from the ceiling, leading to damage and potential injury.
Before installing a pendant light, ensure that your ceiling can adequately support the weight of the fixture and any additional hardware. If necessary, use appropriate reinforcement techniques to ensure the electrical box and mounting hardware are securely fastened to the ceiling’s structural elements.
While most focus on pendant lighting is placed on their beauty and aesthetic appeal, the key to long-term enjoyment of your pendant lights is proper infrastructure and installation of your statement lighting. Installing pendant lights may seem like an easy DIY project, but improper wiring and installation can lead to problems like flickering lights, short circuits, and even fall and fire hazards.
To avoid this mistake, a licensed electrician is the best person to thoroughly check your home’s wiring and perform the installation process according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will ensure a safe and secure installation. Things to have your electrician/contractor verify:
- Correct junction boxes for the fixtures you desire to install
- Adequate electrical wiring
- Proper customizations for any unique hanging situations (length of wire, sloped ceilings, offset junction boxes, etc.)
- Lightbulbs with proper wattage for the fixture (make sure the wattage does not exceed the manufacturer’s recommended wattage usage)
By paying close attention to proper wiring and installation, you’ll enjoy a beautiful and well-lit space for years to come.
If you’re looking for a truly stylish and sustainable way to light up your home, consider Bicycle Glass’s range of recycled glass pendant lights. Not only are these pendants aesthetically pleasing, but they also help reduce environmental waste while creating a beautiful atmosphere in your home.
