How To Look At A House

McGarry and Madsen's home inspection blog for buyers of  

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What is the top of a hanging light fixture called?

Friday, February 10, 2023

It’s called a canopy, and is both decorative and functional. The canopy is usually round and covers the bottom of the electrical box to enclose and protect the wire splices. It should sit snugly up against the ceiling, not like the example shown above. The canopy might also be referred to as a rose or rosette. Sometimes the canopy itself is surrounded by a much larger decorative circular plate that is called a medallion, like at right.

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Field Guide for Home Inspectors, a quick reference for finding the age of 154 brands of HVAC systems, water heaters, and electrical panels, plus 210 code standards for site-built and manufactured homes, and the life expectancy rating of 195 home components. Available at amazon.com for $19.95.
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Here’s links to some of our other blog posts about ELECTRICAL FIXTURES & WIRING: 

Why can't I put a chandelier over the spa tub in my master bath? It would look wonderful!

• What is the average life expectancy of an interior light fixture?

What is the average life expectancy of an exterior light fixture?

• Are bare-bulb light fixtures (lamp holders) legal by code? 

Does a fluorescent light in a clothes closet require a cover lens?

Does a wire nut connection need to be wrapped with electrical tape?

How can extension cords become dangerous? 

What are the most common homeowner electrical wiring mistakes?

• Can I run an electric power cord or extension cord through the wall?  

Can a bare bulb "lampholder" light fixture be installed outdoors? 

Are lights required in closets?  

Why does the bedroom have a light switch but there is no light in the ceiling?

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