Upgrading a Bedroom’s Vibe with a Ceiling Fan Replacement and New Sconces

I’m out in Runnin’ J Ranch (home of Vaaler Creek Golf Club), just south of Blanco, and my client, Kathleen, needs some lighting updates. The main issue is that her bedroom is just too dark—it feels like a cave, honestly. The existing ceiling fan is nice, but they lost the remote control for the light kit, and since the fan isn’t wired to a separate light switch, getting decent light is impossible. So, I’m tackling a ceiling fan replacement and swapping out a couple of wall sconces. This kind of upgrade dramatically changes a room’s atmosphere, making it feel brighter and more functional.

Tackling the Heavy Lifting: The Ceiling Fan

The first step is always the ceiling fan, and I start by carefully removing the old fan. Disconnecting the wiring is straightforward: white to white (neutral), black to black (hot), and the green or bare copper for the ground. However, the new fan is a real beast—it’s super heavy. This is where a “simple” job gets a little tougher. Trying to hold a heavy fan up with one hand while aligning the screws and getting them started in the mounting plate with the other is a genuine test of strength and balance. I definitely take my time here; dropping a fan, or pulling the mounting plate out of the ceiling, is not an option.

Once I secure the fan body to the mounting plate, the wiring for the new unit is next. Since Kathleen wants more light, I make sure the wiring is clean and secure. The beauty of a modern fan is the improved illumination it offers, even if it’s still operated by a pull chain or a new remote. I bundle the wires neatly into the electrical box, attach the canopy, and move on to the blades. Looking up at the finished fan, with its new, functional light kit, I know this is going to make a huge difference in the room’s usability and aesthetic. The old cave-like atmosphere is already starting to dissipate.

A Sconce Swap for Subtle Illumination

Next, I turn my attention to the wall sconces. These are generally much more straightforward than a heavy ceiling fan replacement. The existing sconces are functional, but Kathleen wants a more updated look. Removing the old fixtures reveals the standard junction boxes, and again, I follow the basic electrical rules: disconnect the old wires and connect the new ones, making sure the splices are tight within the wire nuts.

The new sconces go up easily. Unlike the fan, which requires overhead maneuvering and muscle, the sconces are light and fit right into the existing mounting brackets. I secure the new backplates, connect the new fixture bodies, and check the alignment. Sconces provide a fantastic opportunity to layer the lighting in a room. While the ceiling fan is great for general, bright light, the sconces add a soft, ambient glow that’s perfect for the evening. When I step back, I see how the new light fixtures—both the fan and the sconces—work together to create a cohesive and welcoming space.

The Clean Finish and Future Projects

I finish up by giving the area a quick once-over. Kathleen made it clear that she doesn’t need any paint touch-ups or drywall repair, which makes my job that much quicker. I’m always mindful of keeping the work area clean, especially since this is an occupied bedroom. The total job is a success. I’m happy to have helped Kathleen get rid of her dark bedroom problem with a successful ceiling fan replacement and new sconces. She’s already talking about some more projects she has lined up for me in a few weeks, which is always a great sign of a satisfied client.

I really enjoy these kinds of jobs because they provide immediate, noticeable results. A little bit of new hardware and some electrical work truly transforms a space.

What lighting upgrade makes the biggest difference in your home?