Wiring with Adapters

Although I prefer installing most ceiling fixtures from the floor above and sconces from the wall behind, there are many times when the use of an adapter is advantageous and preferred. Those situations include:

• difficult or impossible access to the floor above or wall behind;
• use of non-replaceable or difficult to replace light bulbs;
• frequent or long-distance moving;
• desire to change fixtures periodically;

When installing a ceiling fixture after the floor above has been finished (i.e., stained and varnished, tiled, shingled, or carpeted), the use of an adapter will eliminate the need to remove and/or re-install flooring. Similarly, should you want to install a sconce on an exterior wall using an adapter is the easier method. Granted, you can hardwire through your wall finish and wrap the excess wire in the space behind the sconce, but it is often difficult to access the wall. This is particularly true when working in a back opening house and trying to install a sconce on the wall at the front of the house.

While they are becoming less available, there are still a variety of fixtures with non-replaceable light bulbs. Once the bulbs burn out, the entire fixture must be replaced. If you must use this type fixture, then you should use an adapter or you will need to remove whatever finish is on the floor above or wall behind when you must replace the burned out fixture. Similarly, some fixtures are equipped with replaceable bulbs that are difficult to remove and re-install. If you plan to install that type fixture in a room deep within the house you may find bulb replacement and re-installation nearly impossible. Use of an adapter will allow you to remove the fixture and change the bulbs more easily.

If your job or career requires frequent moves or if you anticipate that you may be required to move the dollhouse long distances, adapters will provide you the opportunity to remove the fixtures for safe transport. Hardwired fixtures suffer from the bumps and jarring movement of transit; fixtures with adapters can be safely stored and re-installed at the new destination. Even if steps have been made to try to protect the fixtures, some damage may still occur.

Occasionally, dollhouse owners find a fixture that they prefer over a previously installed unit or decide to redecorate a room where the old fixture no-longer fits the decor. Fixtures with adapters can be easily replaced without affecting the room above or to the side.

Keep in mind that most fixtures can be hardwired through wall or ceiling finishes with the excess wires tucked into the canopy or mounting unit of the fixture. In these instances, you are required to shorten the wire so it can be accommodated by the canopy or mounting unit. This application can be difficult when working in tight spaces with the shortened wires.

On the down-side, adapters require attachment to the light fixture. Be prepared to work with the fine wires and small screws and jeweler screwdrivers. If your dexterity or vision is compromised, you may find this a very challenging undertaking. Secondly, adapters do not work with all types of fixtures. If you are planning to install a particular fixture using adapters make certain they are compatible before cutting fixture wires. I'll address selecting and attaching adapters in another post.