chain stuck on overhead hanging fluorescent light.

KatieSue

How do I unstick the chain on my fluorescent lighting fixture. I have this light hanging over my washer and dryer.

oberkc

My instinct is that you will have to replace the switch on the fixture. I believe these to be readily available at the normal places and that this to be a pretty easy job. If I recall correctly, the switch is simply installed through a hole in the fixture housing, held by a nut over the threaded body. I expect that you will find two wires at the switch. Install them to duplicate the original wiring.

KatieSue

OK, I took the fixture down (figured if couldn't fix it would need to replace it and would be easier to work on while down). I unscrewed the brass colored screw. The post it was screwed on is like a clear plastic. When I wiggle it, I can see it move with my movements through the slots in the black box that it is in. I am stymied at this point. Do I just go buy a new fixture?

brosea

If you remove the flourescent tubes you should have a few small screws that hold on the cover or reflector. Removing this reflector will give you access to the switch. It probably has a black wire going into it and one going out. ***UNPLUG*** light fixture and try to remove these wires ( you may need to cut them as close to the switch as possible. ) Take the switch to a hardware store and see if they have a replacement.

KatieSue

Well, I took/tore the thing apart ..... no screws to undo. They didn't mean for this thing to be repaired. I think next stop is hardware for new light fixture. Thanks for your suggestions.