Omar Khalid
Mounting lights on a plastic garage can be a great way to improve the functionality and aesthetics of your space. Whether you're looking to install indoor or outdoor lighting, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to plan the location and height of your lights, ensuring they comply with local building and electrical codes. You'll also need to choose the appropriate type of lighting, such as LED, incandescent, or fluorescent, and ensure you have the right tools and safety precautions in place, especially when working with electricity. Regular maintenance and cleaning of your lights will also help to extend their lifespan and keep them working efficiently.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Height | Install the light 8 to 10 feet above the ground to cover the desired area |
| Angle | Ensure the light is aimed correctly to cover the intended area without causing glare or light pollution |
| Accessibility | Choose a location that allows for easy maintenance and bulb replacement |
| Proximity to power | Select a spot near an existing power source to reduce the need for extensive wiring |
| Mounting | Use a level to mark the position of the mounting holes and ensure the marks are level for a professional installation |
| Drilling | Drill pilot holes for the mounting screws to prevent splitting the mounting surface |
| Mounting on siding | Use a siding block to create a flat surface for installation |
| Electrical box | The electrical box serves as the connection point between your home’s wiring and the floodlight |
| Wiring | Wrap the ground wire around the ground bolt threading and tighten it. Connect wires of the same colour to the same coloured terminals |
| Waterproofing | Seal wire ends with plastic wire connectors or electrical tape |
| Motion sensor | Screw the motion sensor into the centre hole of the lamp-holder cover |
| Mounting fixtures | Mount fixtures to the outside wall and place the lamp-holder cover onto the light |
| Bulbs | Use bulbs of the correct wattage and type as specified by the manufacturer |
| Maintenance | Clean light fixtures and sensor lens every few months, check for water ingress or damage, and trim vegetation that may obstruct the sensor or lights |
| Other | See additional sources for further details |
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What You'll Learn
Safety precautions to take before installation
Safety should always be the top priority when working with electricity. Here are some precautions to take before installing lights in a plastic garage:
Locate your home's main electrical panel and identify the circuit breaker that controls the power to your garage. It is important to switch off the appropriate breaker to avoid electrical shocks. Use a voltage tester to confirm that the power is off at the installation site. Test the voltage tester on a known live circuit before use to ensure it is functioning correctly. Check both hot and neutral wires to confirm that the power is off, providing an extra layer of safety. It is important to recheck periodically during installation to ensure the power remains off, maintaining a safe working environment.
Before starting the installation, choose the best location for the lights. Consider the height and angle of the lights to ensure they cover the desired area without causing glare or light pollution. The lights should typically be installed 8 to 10 feet above the ground. Select a spot near an existing power source to reduce the need for extensive wiring. Use a level to mark the position of the mounting holes and ensure the marks are level for a professional installation.
Gather all the required tools and materials before beginning the installation to ensure a smooth process and minimize interruptions. Always follow safety guidelines and, if you are uncomfortable or unfamiliar with electrical work, consider hiring a professional to install the lights for you.
Additionally, ensure that the bulbs you use are of the correct wattage and type as specified by the manufacturer. Bulbs that produce a lot of heat, especially incandescent bulbs, should be protected by a cover to prevent glass shattering due to heat pressure. Always allow bulbs to cool before handling them and never touch them with bare hands to avoid accidental burns.
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Choosing the best location for your lights
Height
Install the lights at a height that covers the desired area effectively. Typically, garage floodlights are placed 8 to 10 feet above the ground. This height ensures that the light illuminates the intended space while also being out of the way and not causing any obstruction.
Angle
Adjust the angle of the lights to ensure they cover the intended area without causing glare or light pollution. By positioning the lights at the right angle, you can maximize their effectiveness while also being considerate of your neighbours.
Accessibility
Choose a location that allows for easy maintenance and bulb replacement. By selecting a spot that is easily accessible, you simplify future upkeep and make it more convenient to perform regular maintenance tasks, such as cleaning the light fixtures and sensor lenses.
Proximity to Power
If possible, select a location near an existing power source. This reduces the need for extensive wiring and simplifies the installation process. Consider the path for the wires and ensure they are protected by a conduit, providing a safe route around the garage perimeter.
Compliance with Codes
Be mindful of local building and electrical codes when choosing the location for your lights. Different areas may have specific regulations regarding mounting height and placement, so it is essential to check and comply with these codes to ensure your installation is safe and legal.
Lighting Purpose
Consider the purpose of the lights. If you are installing security lights, you may want to place them near your driveway, equipping them with motion sensors to enhance your home's security. If you are a mechanic or enjoy DIY, ensure your garage is well-lit by positioning lights to cover the entire surface area.
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Preparing the mounting surface
Identify the Mounting Location:
Start by choosing the best location for your garage lights. Consider factors such as height, angle, accessibility, and proximity to a power source. Select a spot that allows for easy maintenance and bulb replacement while ensuring the light covers the desired area without causing glare or light pollution.
Remove Existing Fixtures:
If there are existing light fixtures or mounting brackets, carefully remove them. This step may involve unscrewing or detaching the old fixtures and brackets to create a clear and clean surface for the new installation.
Prepare the Surface:
Ensure the mounting surface is clean, dry, and free from any debris or residue. If necessary, you can use a mild detergent or solvent to clean the surface thoroughly. Make sure the surface is completely dry before proceeding with the installation.
Mark the Mounting Holes:
Use a level to mark the position of the mounting holes. This step ensures that your light fixture will be installed straight and level. Mark the locations for the mounting screws, making sure the marks are level and aligned.
Drill Pilot Holes:
Before inserting the mounting screws, it is recommended to drill pilot holes. This step helps prevent splitting the mounting surface. Drill holes that are smaller than the screw size to create a guide for the screws. Pilot holes also make it easier to insert the screws and reduce the risk of the screw head damaging the surface.
Create a Stable Base:
If you are mounting the lights on siding, use a siding block to create a flat and stable surface for installation. This step ensures that your light fixture has a sturdy and secure base.
By following these steps for preparing the mounting surface, you will be well on your way to a safe and professional installation of your garage lights.
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Installing the mounting bracket
Planning and Preparation:
Before beginning the installation, it is crucial to plan the location of the light fixture and prepare the mounting surface. Consider the height and angle of the light to ensure it covers the desired area effectively without causing glare or light pollution. Mark the position of the mounting holes using a level to ensure a straight and professional installation.
Drilling and Mounting:
Drill pilot holes at the marked positions to make it easier to insert screws and prevent splitting the mounting surface. If you are mounting on an uneven surface, use a siding block to create a flat and stable base for the light fixture. The electrical box will serve as the connection point between your home's wiring and the light fixture, so ensure it is properly secured.
Wiring and Connections:
Before proceeding with the wiring, consult the manufacturer's instructions for specific details. Generally, black wires connect to black terminals, white wires to white terminals, and green or bare ground wires to their respective terminals. Strip the plastic insulation from the wire ends if necessary, twist them together, and seal with plastic wire connectors or electrical tape for waterproofing.
Mounting the Light Fixture:
With the wiring complete, it is now safe to mount the light fixture to the prepared surface. Use the appropriate screws and ensure all connections are tight and secure.
Final Steps:
Once the fixture is mounted, install the light bulbs and place the lamp-holder cover onto the light. Test the light fixture to ensure it functions properly.
Remember to prioritize safety throughout the installation process, especially when working with electricity. Always turn off the power and use a voltage tester to confirm that the power is off before beginning any work.
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Wiring the lights
The next step is to choose the best location for the lights, taking into account factors such as height, angle, accessibility, and proximity to a power source. This will help determine the path for the wires, which should be protected by a conduit. The electrical box will serve as the connection point between the wiring and the lights. If there is an existing light fixture, remove it along with its mounting bracket, and use a screwdriver to remove the wall receptacle if there is one.
When wiring the lights, follow the manufacturer's instructions for connecting the wires to the correct terminals. Typically, black wires connect to black terminals, white wires to white terminals, and green or bare ground wires to their respective terminals. Strip the plastic insulation from the ends if necessary, twist the wire ends together, and seal them with plastic wire connectors or electrical tape.
If you are installing a motion sensor light, screw the sensor into the centre hole of the lamp-holder cover and thread the lamp holders into the side holes. Tighten the sensor and holders, and then connect the cable to the garage light. Finally, mount the fixture, install the light bulbs, and place the lamp-holder cover.
It is important to regularly maintain your garage lights to ensure they remain in good working condition. This includes cleaning the fixtures and sensor lens, checking for water damage or ingress, and ensuring all screws and connections are tight. Always turn off the power before replacing bulbs or components, and use bulbs of the correct wattage and type as specified by the manufacturer.
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Frequently asked questions
First, remove the plastic pins holding the electric wires using pliers. Then, use the pre-drilled holes in the walls to secure plastic clips that will hold the plastic conduit pipes. Cut the plastic conduit to the right size using a hand saw, a chop saw, or a Japanese pull saw. For corners, use a flexible corner conduit.
First, identify the circuit breaker that controls the power to your garage and switch it off. Choose the best location for the floodlight, considering factors such as height and proximity to power. Mark the position of the mounting holes using a level and drill pilot holes for the mounting screws. If mounting on siding, use a siding block to create a flat surface. Connect the floodlight to your home's wiring using an electrical box.
Before installing garage lighting, consider whether you have an unfinished garage with exposed studs or a finished garage that you can mount onto or into. If you are installing outdoor garage lights, you may need to remove an existing light and its mounting bracket. When wiring the light, connect the black wires to black terminals, white wires to white terminals, and green or bare ground wires to their respective terminals. Strip plastic insulation from the ends if necessary and seal the ends with plastic wire connectors or electrical tape for waterproofing.
