How do I change the Light fixture?

Question

Hi, I would like to change the bar light in my bathroom. I took it sorta apart today to see what was behind it. I only saw two wires, one black, and one white. So the new fixture black to black and white to white, right? but what about a ground wire?, and I don't think there is a junction box, so what is that, and how do I install it. I would really like my house to remain fire free after this is done.

Thanks so much, I need as much help as I can get on this.

Answer 1

Black goes to black...white goes to white. If there is no third wire the original fixture was not grounded. The wires should be coming out of the junction box. It can be either metal or plastic. If there is not one don't worry about it. You'd have to tear out the drywall to put one in. Just connect the black and white wires and mount the new fixture. You're as fireproof as you can get.

Answer 2

If the house was built in '63' and you have no ground wire,

you will have a metallic junction box.

That's your ground.

You hardware vendor will have grounding screws.

Just ground the fixture to the box.

Answer 3

Use the B-B and W-W colors, connect the ground wire if it's there. If there is no connection box, a plastic  fire resistant box designed for "old work" can be purchased for less than $5. You will need to install it properly and carefully install the wires so the connections can be made.  If you have the old k**b and Tube style of wiring, it should be inspected by a qualified professional electrician ASAP. It should be R/R throughout the house where ever it is.  

Answer 4

1) Check to see how those wires are coming out of the wall.

2) Push a pencil through where the wires are and see if there is an electrical box in the wall. (Should be metal or plastic)

3) How was the light bar attached to the wall?

4) The back plate should have a hole where the wires come through.

5) If there are slots or s***w holes about 4" apart (diagonally) and the fixture was attatched to these (8/32 threads & 1/2 long) there is a junction box there.

6) If the light bar was attached through the ends with wood screws the electrician may have not used a box.

7) You need to see whether the Black & White wires are stranded copper or solid copper and what protective coating/insulation they come from.

8) An older house can have; Romex (plastic coated cable with a ground wire in it), Mineral insulated wire with/or w/o a ground wire, Metal sheathed cable (BX)[no ground wire], Metal sheathed cable mineral insulated wires & no ground ar last but not least mineral insulated rubber coated wire,[ k**b and tube wiring](houses built before the 1930's)

9) If you got this far and need help, take your information to your local home center where you can get the materials you need and advice which is free.

If you are not sure what you have, you need a Licensed Electrician to make a safe decision.

Good Luck and be Safe ! ! !