Learn How to Remodel Your Fluorescent Kitchen Light Box in 6 Steps

Is your kitchen still illuminated by the harsh glow of fluorescent tubes? While fluorescent light boxes were once the norm for kitchen lighting, most homeowners today prefer more versatile and stylish options.

Replacing an outdated fluorescent fixture with new lighting can make a dramatic difference in your kitchen's ambiance. The process involves some electrical work but it's very doable as a DIY project.

Follow this 6-step guide to learn how to remove your old fluorescent light box and install fresh, energy efficient kitchen lighting.

Step 1: Turn Off Power and Remove Old Fixture

Before removing your old fluorescent light box, you'll need to shut off power to avoid getting shocked. Locate the correct breaker in your electrical panel and switch it to the off position.

To confirm power is off, use a voltage tester near the fixture. With the power off, carefully take down the entire fluorescent light box.

You'll need to access the wiring housed in the electrical box. Carefully disconnect the wires and remove the mounting hardware securing it in place.

Once detached, dispose of the fluorescent light box responsibly. Many metal recycling centers accept old light fixtures.

Tips for Removing Old Electrical Box

• Use a voltage tester to confirm no live power before touching wires
• Wear safety goggles in case debris falls from the ceiling
• Have a helper for large, heavy fluorescent fixtures

Step 2: Install New Junction Box

With the old light box gone, you'll need to install a new electrical junction box. Cut a hole in the ceiling at the desired location, matching the fluorescent box's size.

Attach the junction box securely to ceiling joists or framing using proper hardware. Run the necessary electrical cables into the box.

Follow local building codes for junction box sizing and placement guidelines specific to your location.

Junction Box Placement Tips

• Follow building codes for ceiling junction box requirements
• Center placement where original fluorescent box was
• Make hole large enough for multiple fixtures

Step 3: Choose Your New Lighting

Now comes the fun part - picking new energy efficient lighting for your kitchen! Consider your kitchen's size, layout and what tasks need illumination.

Recessed can lights add versatile ambient lighting. Under cabinet fixtures illuminate countertops beautifully. Pendants shine over islands and peninsulas.

Mix lighting types for the best results. LED and halogen lights provide bright, natural light for kitchen tasks.

Questions to Consider When Choosing Lighting

• What's your remodeling budget for new kitchen lighting?
• What's the decor style you want your lighting to match?
• What tasks like cooking or cleaning need the best illumination?

Step 4: Install New Fixtures and Wiring

With your new energy efficient lights purchased, it's time for installation. Connect the wiring following the fixture's directions carefully.

Group all ground wires and connect white neutral wires using wire nuts. Follow local electrical codes for kitchen wiring requirements.

For recessed can lights, cut holes in the ceiling to inset the housing mounts. Take care to position the cans evenly and logically.

Wiring Tips

• Use wire nuts to join the ends of all live and neutral wires
• Connect all ground wires and neutral white wires
• Follow local electrical codes for kitchen wiring

Step 5: Retrofit Ceiling and Patch Holes

With your new lights installed, it's time to make the ceiling look polished again. For recessed lights, install trim kits to neatly frame each can.

Patch any holes or uneven areas with drywall joint compound. When dry, sand smooth and paint to match the surrounding ceiling.

Take care to properly prep and finish the ceiling so new fixtures blend in seamlessly.

Tips for Patching Ceiling Holes

• Use drywall tape and joint compound for cracks or holes
• Apply texture coating to match existing ceiling style
• Paint retouched areas to match the ceiling color

Step 6: Turn Power Back On and Test

The finishing touches involve restoring power and testing the new kitchen lighting. Turn the correct breaker back on at your panel box.

Hit the switches to make sure each light turns on. Replace any bulbs that don't work. Enjoy your bright, stylish new kitchen lighting!

Troubleshooting Tips

• Check for loose wire connections if lights are flickering
• Ensure wiring matches fixture requirements
• Try an LED compatible dimmer switch if having issues

The Benefits of Updated Kitchen Lighting

Taking the time to remodel outdated fluorescent kitchen lighting offers many rewarding benefits. The harsh glare from fluorescent tubes gets replaced by more inviting illumination.

Newer lighting like recessed and under cabinet lights offer superior task lighting for cooking and cleaning. The overall ambiance of your kitchen will feel brighter and more modern.

Upgrading old fluorescent fixtures to ENERGY STAR rated LED and halogen lights provides long term energy savings as well.

Improved lighting also makes your kitchen safer by reducing shadows and glare. Although the process requires some work, the difference new lighting makes is amazing.

Don't let an outdated fluorescent kitchen light box ruin your cooking experience. With some planning and elbow grease, you can upgrade to modern lighting.

Carefully removing the old fixture and installing new wiring and lights takes time. But follow these steps and you can do it yourself.

Just be sure to turn off power and follow local building codes. The improved ambiance and energy savings from new fixtures make the effort very rewarding.

With the right lights illuminating your work spaces, you can love cooking and entertaining in your kitchen again.