What to consider when installing a chandelier lighting

The long legacy of chandelier lighting is a testimony to its ever-lasting appeal of art lighting. While a chandelier can be a delightful addition, the selection of the design and the choice of the location are most pertinent to its impact on the room. It is also critical that the chandelier is secured and properly wired to function safely. Read more for further information on the issues to consider when installing a chandelier lighting.

Choosing the chandelier

A favourite choice in decorative lighting, ceiling chandelier designs range from the fairly utilitarian small chandeliers to the more elaborate pieces. Lighting stores carry several designs and your choice should consider the context of the room and its decor, while reflecting your personal taste.

Choosing the location

Chandeliers can be a strong focal point both during the day and at night. Hence, it is important that the location is well considered, since errors in judgment will seem more conspicuous. Chandeliers generally create a sense of formality and are best suited for living rooms, formal dining areas, lobbies and entrance foyers. While this is not a rule, chandeliers are often centred in a room. Rooms with double height, such as foyers have the additional advantage of allowing the chandelier to be suspended by a long linked chain which highlights the appeal of the chandeliers.

Securing the chandelier

Chandeliers can sometimes be very heavy, as in crystal chandeliers and brass chandeliers, and it is most important that they are secured safely to the ceiling to avoid accidents. Owners’ manuals carry detailed instructions on the support brace requirements for ceiling chandeliers, and these should be followed diligently. L-shaped brackets or an hexagonal fan base are commonly used to attach the support brace to the ceiling joists. On hanging the chandelier from its support hook, you should judge the length of the linked chain required, and some links may have to be removed to get the correct length.

Wiring connections

Generally, potential locations for chandelier lighting are already provided with the requisite wiring and the support brace. If not, an electrician’s help would be needed to install the wiring. The circuit breaker, controlling the power supply to the light fixture, must be turned off prior to wiring the chandelier. The installation hardware package accompanying the chandelier will contain wire connectors and instructions on how it should be attached to the main wiring. The electrical box should be fixed to the support brace as per the instructions. Once wired, the chandelier is ready to hold the associated bulbs and shades, and for further testing. Final word Pick the chandelier design and location after careful thought of the overall impact of the overhead lighting. Exercise caution and safety when securing and connecting the chandelier.