Ceiling fan install
I'm replacing an old light fixture with a ceiling fan. I am removing the old light fixture anticipating to replace the electrical box, but found an octagon metal box for the current fixture. I do not know if it is mounted on a beam, not am I sure how to determine that. Can I use the box that is currently there not knowing how it is mounted or is there a way to determine what it's mounted on?
I assume there is no access to above this box as from an attic area? ...»
Most older homes have the metal bar that supports the fixture box, however, many of these are not strong enough for many of the heavy light and fan combos made today.
However they all have ether a few machine screws holding them onto the bar that you cannot see or a round bolt like item coming out in the middle of the box. If you remove the nut or the two machine screws the box should drop out of the hole in the ceiling allowing you access to the cavity above. Once that is gained there are several heavy duty expandable support brackets that can be put into place to support your light fixture. You may want a professional contractor to install this for you.
If you see a metal bar running through the middle of the box from one side to the other that to is a fan or heavy light fixture box.
Can you take a photo of it exposed? A good quality close up will help us identify what you have.
Some ceiling fan designs use a larger metal hanger bracket that supports the fans weight. These are mounted using lags in to the ceiling joist or can be set with butterfly mollys. ...»
There are a number of metal boxes that use braces or telescoping mounts. A skilled installer can install these up through the existing "hole" so extensive drywall repair is not needed. Another option is to work from above in the attic space if available.