Problem Updating Old Fluorescent Light

starfishnc · 10-26-2009, 04:01 PM

We just removed our old kitchen light which was more like a garage light---long fluorescent box (rectangular). The hole that the wires are coming out of is not centered in the kitchen workspace and we want to install a flush mount light. Help!! We are trying to sell our house and need it to look great! I've attached pics of the problem area....

Thanks in advance for your help!

teamo · 10-26-2009, 04:32 PM

If I understand what you are saying the box is not centered and you want to put a light in the center of the room. You could use track light, or a swag chain and hanging light. If you want a flush mount light you could use wire mold and install a new box at the new location or you could snake a new wire over to the center and install a new box, you would have to use a blank cover over the existing box.

AllanJ · 10-26-2009, 04:37 PM

1. Move the junction box if the wires in the ceiling will stretch that far, you will need to refinish the ceiling.

2. Choose another light fixture that is long. It doesn't have to be as long as the previous fixture so long as you still position it to cover the existing box. Cut a 7/8" hole in the top of the new fixture if needed to string the wires inside and use a wire clamp to line the sharp edges.

sdsester · 10-26-2009, 05:15 PM

If you are trying to sell the house, I would put in track lighting so you don't have to fuss with patching the current fixture hole (and trying to match the texture), cutting a new one, and stringing wire. You should be able to pick up something with 3-4 decent looking track fixtures for $40 or so. Point them wherever you want.

Wildie · 10-26-2009, 08:49 PM

You could build a soffit, just a little larger than the area where the old fixture lay. Then install pot lights or some other type of fixtures in the soffit.
You cannot block access to the outlet box, so perhaps the soffit could be constructed with a hinged cover