As an electrical company, one of the most common questions we receive from customers is whether we can install light fixtures purchased from online retailers such as Amazon or Wayfair. While it may seem like a simple task, it’s essential to ensure that the light fixture is approved by a recognized organization such as the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL).
The reason for this is that electrical products in Canada must meet specific safety standards, and all electrical products sold, displayed, or advertised for sale in the province must be tested and certified by a certification body (CB) accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) against a recognized Canadian product standard. Unfortunately, many lights purchased online, especially those manufactured in China, do not meet these safety standards.
So, can an electrician install your lights purchased from Amazon or Wayfair? The answer is, it depends. If the light fixture has been approved by a recognized organization such as the CSA or UL, then an electrician can install it. However, if the light fixture does not meet these safety standards, then it cannot be installed.
Important Side Note: CSA or UL approval of a light fixture is mandatory if you want to be covered by an insurance company for a fire that is caused by the fixture.
How to Choose An Approved and Safe Light Fixture
To choose an approved light fixture, customers can look for the CSA or UL mark on the product. This mark indicates that the product has been tested and certified by the organization and meets the required safety standards.
Here in Ontario, the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) has published a list of recognized certification marks for electrical products. You can click here to see that list and see the marks you need to find on the light fixture you’ve purchased to know it has been approved.
Additionally, shopping at local stores here in Ottawa and Clarence-Rockland, such as Home Depot, Rona, Home Hardware, or other similar stores is a safe bet as these stores only carry approved lighting.
How Much Does it Cost to Install A Light Fixture?
The cost to hire an electrician to install a typical light fixture can vary depending on various factors such as the complexity of the installation and the type of light fixture being installed. However, on average, customers can expect to pay around $30 to $200 for the installation of a typical light fixture.
Can a Light Be Installed in A Place Where there is No Light Now?
If there’s no wiring where you want a light fixture installed, an electrician can still install it, but it will require running wiring to the new location, with a secured box.
This will increase the cost of installation, but it’s essential to ensure that the installation is safe and meets the required safety standards.
Conclusion: Play it Safe, and Ask Your Electrician First
In conclusion, when it comes to installing light fixtures, it’s essential to ensure that they meet the required safety standards. Look for the CSA or UL mark on the product or shop at local stores that only carry approved lighting. Hiring a licensed electrician to install a light fixture is always recommended to ensure that the installation is safe and meets the required safety standards.
