How to Remove a Chandelier Before Moving

Get the Right Tools and Packing Supplies

To carry this out properly, prepare packing materials for the move that will facilitate the process. Make sure to get the following:

• Several moving boxes– one large, one small, and several medium-sized
• Protective paper
• Bubble wrap
• Foam padding
• Packing peanuts
• Duct tape
• Cable ties
• Plastic zip lock bags
• Old blankets
• A set of screwdrivers
• Pliers
• Ladder

A great idea is to have someone who can help you, especially if the chandelier is large and heavy.

Pack It to Hang – Use a Crate

In case your ceiling fixture is massive and has plenty of small pieces and ornaments, a wooden crate could be the perfect solution for your valuable item. This crate should be big enough to carry its contents hanging from the top with four inches of space on each side of the item.

Make a Proper Crate

How does one design a mechanism from which the light fixture will hang within the shipping crate during transport? Here’s what you’re going to need for that:

• Two one-by-one pieces of wood that are two inches shorter than the crate’s height
• One more piece of wood the same length as the container

You should secure the one-by-one pieces to the sides of the crate with screws and put the last piece of wood on the top of the ledge made by the side parts. Secure it with screws, too. Repeat this process on the other side of the crate.

Now you will be able to store your chandelier properly when the time comes.

How to Remove a Chandelier – Step by Step

Several things should be done before you start removing the object. These preparatory steps include the following:

• Electricity matter. You should turn off the circuit breaker providing electricity to the room. Make sure to check the wires using a voltage tester for safety.
• Turn off the electricity in the main power case.
• Put away all objects under the fixture and lay something soft on the floor, such as blankets or pillows, that will serve as protection in case any fragile or valuable piece falls off.
• Place an adequate step ladder under the chandelier.

How to Remove the Fixture from the Ceiling – Inch By Inch

To make this process as easy as possible, you should follow these steps. They will help you to be efficient and avoid unpredictable situations and mistakes.

Take Down the Chandelier from the Ceiling

• Check your circuit breaker panel and disconnect the power to the lights.
• Take off the protective shield. That is usually a metal shield fixed to the ceiling. In case it’s masked by a decorative ball, twist it and remove it.
• Take out the screws and consider using another person’s help to prevent anything from falling down.
• Use the voltage tester and check the power. It should be disconnected.
• Release the nut from the wires and separate them.

Don’t Forget the Grounding Wire in the Wall

Untwist the grounding wire if it’s twisted to the junction box. You can recognize it by green shielding material, although it can be a bare copper wire, too. After that, lower the installation carefully and set it aside.

Everything Should Be Ready to Install in the Future

Don’t leave the ceiling wires poking out from the interior of the junction case – place them back. If you’re not planning to install new lights, place the junction case cap as it were.

How to Disassemble It – Handle the Wire and the Grip

After lowering the object, you will see a bunch of wires and cables poking out. Bundle them and fix them with ties or rubber bands. This will make it easier to set up once you reach your new home. Take off all the light bulbs, candle cups, chains, arms, prisms, lampshades, and ornaments if there are any. If there are any crystal pieces, take them off and clean them before wrapping them separately.

What About Removable Pieces

All the detachable parts should be gently set aside or wrapped in appropriate packing materials. It can be useful to take photos of their placement to have a clear picture of how to reattach them after the move. In most cases, they are attached by wires, screws or hooks, so it could be a hassle to put them back as they were before.

Packing for Moving

After you’ve finished with the harder part, it’s time to wrap your installation and its accessories. In case you’ve prepared all the supplies, packing and unpacking can be fun. Make sure to get enough bubble wrap and padding materials to prevent potential damage.

Place the Chandelier In a Crate

Wrap everything in packing paper and bubble wrap. You can use several layers of bubble wrap to protect all parts thoroughly. After you’ve prepared the wooden crate, it’s time to hang the object properly.

Tie one end of the rope tightly around the carrying hook or chain and attach the other end of the string to the top of the crate. There should be around two inches of space between the bottom of the crate and the contents, so adjust the length of the rope accordingly. Now you can add additional padding. A garbage bag filled with packing peanuts might be the right solution. Use the peanuts to fill the crate to prevent the contents from swinging during the transport.

Pack It Into a Box

When it comes to packing the fixture in a cardboard box, the most crucial thing is to find one that is strong and big enough. The bottom should be reinforced to prevent unexpected splitting of the box.

After wrapping the light fixture in a large sheet of bubble wrap, you’ll understand why the box should be a few inches bigger than your valuable item. All space should be filled with foam cushioning or packing peanuts, and you can also consider placing several layers of blankets or towels on the bottom and the sides of the box.

Pack the Light Bulb and Accessories Safely

All the detachable pieces, such as chains, prisms, ornaments, and crystal parts, should be wrapped individually in packing paper or bubble wrap. Place them into a smaller package. Screws, hooks, and nuts should be stored in plastic zip-lock bags. Crystal pieces and light bulbs, being more delicate, need to be protected with bubble wrap and stored in a sturdy package.

Final Test

This last part of the packing process is crucial since it can tell you whether the items are packed correctly or you’ll have to use more padding materials. Shake the package gently, and if you feel or hear any movement, then additional protection must be added. When everything is tucked in nicely, close the boxes and seal them with packing tape. Write down labels such as “This Side Up” and “Fragile”.

Last Word

If this entire packing process seems complicated to you, then you should consider getting moving and packing services. Keep in mind that this comes at costs and it can be an additional expense if you’re planning to move your complete household. However, compared to the costs of possible damage, paying a professional moving company seems reasonable. To maintain peace of mind and to avoid unnecessary worries, hire a reliable mover, and your most valuable things will be delivered to your new home intact.