Light fixtures come in dozens of styles that are suitable for any home in Modesto, CA. From elegant chandeliers for your entryway or dining room to wall sconces in hallways or bedrooms, you’ll find fixtures that match your home’s style. Wall and ceiling fixtures can become loose and wobbly for a few common reasons that might require an electrician to fix. See how to fix the problem and when to let the pros handle the task.
Check the Base
Many older light fixtures have a base that affixes the fixture to the wall or ceiling. If you replace an old light with a new one, you’ll usually find that the base isn’t compatible. The base can also loosen over time, especially if you have a ceiling fan or a fixture that moves. As it moves, it wears down the base and causes it to come off the wall. Replacing the base is the only way to fix it.
Tighten the Screws
The movement of the fixture does more than just affect the base because it can also loosen the screws. Not only do you want to ensure the screws are tight, but you also need to use the right type. In some cases, the issue might occur just because you or a previous owner chose the wrong screws. Two-inch wood screws are usually the best choice. Using screws that are too short can make the fixture wobbly because it isn’t properly attached to the ceiling.
Add Anchors
Anchors are small plastic pieces that resemble the design of screws. They sink into the wall and create a good surface that helps the screw adhere to the surface, which keeps them from becoming loose in the future. Using them often requires taking down the old fixture, installing the anchors, and using the screws to attach the fixture. Many local contractors can replace your old fixture and use the right anchors.
Look for Loose Wiring
Loose wiring can also affect your light fixture and make it appear loose or wobbly. The wires are not stable enough to keep the fixture attached to your home. If you suspect the wiring is old or loose, look for other signs of a problem. Those signs range from buzzing noises to flickering lights. Until you replace the old wiring, the lights will continue flickering as the fixture works its way off the wall.
It’s not just old or antique light fixtures that can become loose. Even new ones you install or hire someone to install can pull away from walls and ceilings, making them appear wobbly or shaky. This happens when you don’t have the right base or anchors as well as when the screws or wiring is loose. Get help fixing your fixtures and any other lighting services you need with one call to Ambition Electric in Lincoln, NE.
