Friday, April 6, 2012

Instant Pendant Lights!



This kitchen ceiling sports three instant pendant lights in a bronze finish.

Do you like the look of pendant lights but don't want to mess with electrical wiring? If so, you can buy what are called instant pendant lights that connect to your existing recessed lighting fixtures. The cord length is adjustable. It is kind of tricky to try to get them even, but you can make adjustments to get pretty close.

I have three such recessed lighting fixtures over the bar in my kitchen. They previously had the standard white ring on the outside and an ugly flood light bulb. I bought instant pendant lights in a bronze coating with antique style glass shades to replace them. The glass color is called 'Parchment,' which provides a nice, warm glow. The style fits well with my decor.

These lights came with an adaptor that allows you to use the existing light socket. The entire fixture fits right over the ring that surrounds the socket on the ceiling.

They use standard light bulbs (up to 75 watts each), which are much more attractive than the flood lights. The bulbs are lower now, too, making it easier to switch them out when it's time.  

I bought mine at Improvements Catalog for about $35 each. They sometimes go on sale, or you can get a discount for buying two or more. Considering how much it can cost to have an electrician install new fixtures, or how much it might cost a brave DIY'er in medical bills if they get electrocuted, I'd say that's a great deal!

You can also buy them at Solutions and Home Decorators Collection. Home Depot is also carrying some now, but I believe at this time they are only available online and are not sold in their stores.

You will have to periodically adjust the pendant fixtures, as they tend to slide away from the ceiling ring. It can be kind of a nuisance, but again, it's minor compared to the costs involved in changing the fixtures. This is especially the case if you have high ceilings. How often do you look up and notice things light that anyway? I only worry about adjusting them when I have guests.   

light bulb idea graphic
Now that's a bright idea!