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How to Remove Can Lights in 7 Steps
Throw those old light fixtures in the (trash) can
Get quotes from lighting pros near you
No obligation · 100% free
Get quotes from lighting pros near you
No obligation · 100% free
SKILL LEVEL
Simple
COMPLETION TIME
1 hour
COST
$50–$100
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What you'll need:
TOOLS
- Wire stripper
- Cordless drill
- Screwdriver
- Cable ripper
- Voltage tester
SUPPLIES
- Ceiling electrical box
- Ceiling box cover
- Electrical tape
- Wire nuts
- Face mask
When it’s time to get those old can lights out of your home, you’ll know. That’s because removing unused or outdated can lights can make way for a fresh look and more modern fixtures. Follow this easy guide for seven simple steps that shed light on the DIY removal process.
Prepping to Remove Your Lights
Before removing a can light, gather all the required equipment and materials you’ll need. First, purchase a box cover that will go over the open area. When selecting the box cover, consider the color of your ceiling and decide if you’ll need to paint the cover after it’s installed. If so, add some ceiling paint to your shopping cart.
As you will be working with electricity, it may be in your best interest to wear electrical gloves to prevent any mishaps. You should also consider wearing a face mask and eyeglasses to protect yourself from any debris that falls from the ceiling.
Cut the Power
First and foremost, turn off the power to your can light circuit on your electric service panel. You can use an electrical tester to ensure that the power is off and place a piece of tape on the switch to prevent it from being turned on during the process.
Remove the Bulb and Light Trim
Photo: Edwin Tan / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty ImagesPosition a ladder under the light and climb up it until you can reach the light bulb. Once the light bulb is cool to the touch, remove it by turning it counterclockwise.
Next, remove the trim by prying a putty knife under the outer edge. Pull down with the knife until it’s a little loose and then use your hands to pull it off.
Remove the Recessed Can Light Housing
There are two types of can light housing: remodeled and new construction. If you have a remodeled can light, it will be attached to the ceiling drywall and can be easily removed by prying the clips to loosen it.
If you have a new construction can light, it may be a little more difficult. New construction lighting is connected above the ceiling drywall by two joists. You will need attic access to remove it. It may be best to call an electrician if this is the case.
Access and Disconnect the Wires
Your can light should now be hanging by wires from the ceiling. Use a voltage tester to ensure that there are no currents running through it.
Once you’re sure there’s no power, turn the wire nuts counter-clockwise to disconnect the wires. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws on the retaining ring of the cable lamp and then pull out the wires so they’re fully exposed.
Terminate the Wires
Photo: AleksandarNakic / E+ / Getty ImagesMove the wires to the back of the electrical box, and use a cable ripper to remove three to four inches of cable sheathing. Make sure to not strip the wires completely.
Next, place a wire nut on the end of each wire and secure it with electrical tape.
Install the Blank Plate
Push the electrical box back into the ceiling, and use a cordless drill to turn the screws of the attachment wings. Then take a screwdriver and screw the blank plate over the box.
Depending on the color of the blank plate you’ve purchased, you may want to paint it to better match your ceiling.
Test the Circuit
Finally, turn on the circuit breaker to test the circuit. If other devices are powered by the circuit, leave it on. Otherwise, flip it off.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
With the right tools and expertise, removing a can light can be a quick job that you can do within an hour. However, it does involve working with electricity, which can be dangerous when not handled correctly.
To err on the side of caution, it may be best to contact a local light fixture installation technician to complete the process. With the right knowledge, they’ll be able to safely remove the can light and ensure that everything is sealed properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lighting services reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
4.5★ avg. • 13 total reviews
- Ronald A.
Custom Paint Jobs LLC gave our office a fresh new look. Clients love it!
Custom Paint Jobs, LLC - John S.
Best painters in the Greater Columbus, Ohio area. Quality of work second to none and customer service is head above shoulders than everyone else. I cant wait to work on another project with Silvio and Team!
- Lauren R.
The Mosby team went above and beyond for my project. They not only installed my light fixture; they also worked through an old, wonky, and as it turns out incorrect wiring issue from the work of prior contractors. Professional, thorough, conscientious, and kind. Five star experience. Thank you!
Mosby Electric - Locke M.
We had a 20+ year old landscape lighting system that needed replacement. Midwest Lightscapes worked with us to design a much improved lighting system, lighting the exterior of the house and the back yard. Installation of the 45 light system took one and one-half days, and went very smoothly....
Midwest Lightscapes - Stephen D.
Jeff was a consummate professional. Responsive, courteous, and focused on meeting our needs. I had a small project of installing and replacing two ceiling light fixtures. He responded to my Home Advisory inquiry within 24 hours and in a span of two weeks our light fixtures were installed. ...
- Stephanie S.
For several months I was looking for somebody to tile a wall in my master bath and move lighting fixtures, and could not find anybody who was responsive. I contacted Rowe through Home Advisor and within days they came by to assess the job and provide an estimate. The cost was very...
Rowe House Development - John E.
A team of 2 spent 5 hours, cleaning top to bottom (removed all light fixture and cleaned.... impressive!!!)
Luzia's Cleaning - Jessica E.
It went very well. I was able to select the color blocks I wanted and where they would be placed in the window. All of the employees were very pleasant and patient. The guys who installed the window arrived promptly, did their job, and there was nothing for me to clean up. The window looks...
Innovate Home Org - Columbus Glass Block - Sarah C.
The initial quoted price from a walk-through seemed high, but we discussed that the quote represented worst case scenario (re-wiring to two floors) and we were excited about the opportunity to have the work done in a timely manner with closing for fire safety reasons, etc. When the job was...
- Robb B.
Charlie recommended a separate fan with new lighting to clear steam from the room better. Several weeks ago I contacted Charlie via email to ask about pricing and scheduling, after one follow up he did reply with cost and said it would be about two weeks before he could do the work. I replied...
Settle Muter Electric
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