	AllExperts > Electrical Wiring in the Home
	Search

About Bob Sponaugle
Expertise
Just about any home wiring question. (not appliance repair) I have done all kinds of home wiring for myself, including adding a new breaker box, etc. Please, questions from North America only. Please be specific with details.

You are here: Experts > Home/Garden > Home Improvement/Repair > Electrical Wiring in the Home > Kitchen ceiling lights

Electrical Wiring in the Home - Kitchen ceiling lights

Expert: Bob Sponaugle - 11/1/2009

Question
We have 8 recessed ceiling lights in our kitchen ceiling; each has a 100 watt bulb. I would like to replace one of these (positioned over a center island) with an antique chandelier, which has 3 lights facing down, and one facing up. How can I tell if the pre-existing wires for one of these recessed lights will have enough power to light the chandelier, please? Thanks very much.

Answer
Hi.

You will have to replace the recess light with a junction box and patch the hole in the ceiling. As far as the wiring, you'll have to see what else is on that circuit. A 15 amp circuit will carry 1800 watts max, a 20 amp circuit 2400. You should try to keep well under the max. If there is a dimmer for the circuit, you'll also have to make sure you do not exceed the capacity of the dimmer.

I hope this helps.

Bob

Add to this Answer Ask a Question

About Electrical Wiring in the Home
This site answers questions related to home electrical wiring, home wiring, general electrical help,and other electrical questions related to aleternating current (AC). You can find help on the National Electical Code, home electrical issues, wiring electrical outlets, installing lighting, electrical grounding, and general electrical help for do-it-yourself projects not require an electrician. If you do not see your home electrical wiring question answered in this area then please ask your electrical wiring question here