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Brighten Your Closet: A Simple LED Upgrade by HEP

Scenario:
A homeowner in Knoxville reached out because their closet was dim and hard to navigate. They wanted a bright, energy-efficient light but weren’t sure how to tap into the existing circuit without major renovations.

HEP technician arrived, assessed the space, and developed a plan to extend power from the nearby switch box up through the attic and into the closet ceiling. Within a few hours, the customer had a sleek LED strip light and a new wall switch for effortless control. Here’s how it unfolded—and some tips you can use for your next home project.

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1. Examining the Pathway Above

Before installing new wiring, our team needed to see where cables could run safely. In many homes, attics or crawl spaces are the easiest routes for electrical runs—but they can be dusty, cluttered, or poorly insulated.

Homeowner Tip:
• Check for loose or old wiring up above—cables should be secured to joists, not dangling.
• Look at insulation condition; disturbed insulation can reduce energy efficiency.

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2. Clearing and Preparing the Closet

Next, the closet itself needed a clear area for the new fixture. Even a small closet can become an obstacle course if clothes and boxes haven’t been rearranged.

Homeowner Tip:
• Keep a 3-foot clearance around switch boxes and lighting fixtures for safety and easy access.
• A clear work area lets the [HEP technician] focus on wiring, not moving your storage.

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3. Installing the LED Fixture

With power brought from the switch bay and a small opening made in the ceiling, the new two-foot LED strip slid smoothly into place. LED lighting not only uses less energy but also produces minimal heat—perfect for cozy closets.

Homeowner Tip:
• Choose LED fixtures rated for enclosed spaces—they last longer and save on electricity bills.
• If you ever swap a fixture again, make sure the circuit is turned off at the breaker.

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4. Updating the Wall Control

Finally, the team converted the old two-gang switch into a three-gang setup to accommodate the new light. The result is a clean, easy-to-use switch plate.

Homeowner Tip:
• Label your switches if you add circuits later—simple labels save you from guesswork.
• Don’t hesitate to call a professional for switch modifications; loose wiring behind old switches can be a fire hazard.

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Key Takeaways for Homeowners

1. Plan the Route: Whether in [Knoxville] or elsewhere, map out where cables will run—through the attic, inside walls, or along trim.
2. Use Quality Fixtures: Upgrading to LED fixtures reduces long-term costs and improves light output.
3. Safety First: Always have a licensed electrician confirm circuit capacity before adding loads.
4. Accessibility Matters: Keep switches and fixtures within easy reach and maintain clearances.

By following these simple steps and leaning on professionals like HEP technicians, adding a new light in tight spaces becomes a smooth, affordable improvement. Brighten up your home—and your day!