Vanity Light

How high should a vanity light be?

The ideal height for a vanity light depends on the specific placement and type of vanity, but a general guideline is:

• Above the Mirror: If you're placing the light above the mirror, it should typically be about 75 to 80 inches (about 6.25 to 6.67 feet) from the floor. This height ensures even lighting across your face without creating harsh shadows.
• Beside the Mirror: If you're installing sconces on either side of the mirror, they should generally be placed about 60 to 65 inches (about 5 to 5.4 feet) from the floor, approximately at eye level, and about 28 to 30 inches apart from each other for balanced illumination.

These measurements can be adjusted based on the height of the mirror, the ceiling, and the preferences of the user.

How to install bathroom vanity light?

Installing a bathroom vanity light is a straightforward process if you follow these steps carefully. Here's a guide to help you install it:

Tools and Materials Needed:

• Vanity light fixture
• Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
• Wire strippers
• Electrical tape
• Wire nuts (usually included with the light fixture)
• Voltage tester
• Ladder or step stool
• Pencil or marker

Steps to Install a Bathroom Vanity Light:

1. Turn Off the Power:

• Go to your home's circuit breaker panel and turn off the power to the bathroom where you'll be installing the light. Double-check by flipping the light switch in the bathroom to ensure the power is off.

2. Remove the Old Light Fixture (if applicable):

• If there is an existing light fixture, remove it by unscrewing the mounting screws. Carefully pull the fixture away from the wall, exposing the wires.
• Use a voltage tester to confirm that the wires are not live. If safe, disconnect the wires by unscrewing the wire nuts.

3. Prepare the Wiring:

• If necessary, use wire strippers to strip about 1/2 inch of insulation from the ends of the wires (black, white, and ground) coming from the wall.
• Ensure the electrical box is secure and can support the weight of the new light fixture.

4. Mount the Bracket:

• Most vanity lights come with a mounting bracket. Attach this bracket to the electrical box using the screws provided.
• Ensure the bracket is level and securely fastened.

5. Connect the Wires:

• Black to Black (Hot): Connect the black wire from the light fixture to the black wire coming from the wall. Twist the ends together and secure them with a wire nut.
• White to White (Neutral): Connect the white wire from the fixture to the white wire from the wall in the same way.
• Ground to Ground: Connect the green or bare copper ground wire from the fixture to the ground wire from the wall. If there is no ground wire, attach it to the grounding screw on the mounting bracket.

6. Secure the Light Fixture:

• Carefully tuck the wires into the electrical box. Align the light fixture with the mounting bracket and secure it in place with the screws provided.
• Make sure the fixture is level and securely fastened.

7. Install Bulbs and Shades:

• Screw in the appropriate light bulbs as recommended by the manufacturer. Attach any shades or covers that come with the fixture.

8. Restore Power:

• Go back to the circuit breaker and turn the power back on. Test the light switch to ensure the vanity light works properly.

9. Final Adjustments:

• Make any final adjustments to the fixture to ensure it is level and positioned correctly.

Tips:

• If you are not comfortable working with electrical wiring, it is best to hire a licensed electrician to install the light fixture.
• Always double-check that the power is off before touching any wiring.

By following these steps, you should be able to install your bathroom vanity light safely and effectively.