4
Simple steps
No
Wiring required
2 hrs
Typical install time
Hexagon lights are designed to be installed by a competent Australian DIYer if they are plug-in systems. The process involves planning your layout, locating ceiling joists, mounting the first panel bracket, connecting the panels together, and managing the cable to a nearby power point. Hardwired systems follow the same mounting steps but require a licensed electrician to make the final connection to the ceiling circuit under AS/NZS 3000.
Installing hex lights on a ceiling is a manageable project for most homeowners. This step-by-step guide covers the process for a standard residential garage ceiling installation of a HEXA Classic system. Adapt the steps for your specific system; always refer to the documentation provided with your product.
On this page
- Before You Start: What You Need
- Step 1: Plan Your Layout
- Step 2: Locate Ceiling Joists
- Step 3: Mark Bracket Positions
- Step 4: Mount the First Bracket and Panel
- Step 5: Connect Additional Panels
- Step 6: Cable Management
- Step 7: Connect Power
- Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid
- Frequently asked questions
Before You Start: What You Need
- Your HEXA hexagon light system (panels, connectors, mounting brackets, cable)
- A drill with the bit sizes specified in the installation guide
- A stud finder or joist finder
- A spirit level and pencil
- A ladder (rated for your ceiling height; 3m is the typical Australian garage ceiling)
- Cable clips or conduit for cable management
- A power point nearby (for plug-in systems) or a licensed electrician booked (for hardwired)
Step 1: Plan Your Layout
Lay your panels out on the floor first. Visualise how they will look on the ceiling. The hexagonal geometry creates multiple layout options: a row, a cluster, a honeycomb block, or a custom shape. Use the wall measurements of your ceiling to plan where the centre of the system will sit.
For a garage, centre the system over the working area, not over the car park space itself. Most garage tasks happen at the rear of the bay, near the back wall and workbench. Position the system so the light output covers that area directly.
Step 2: Locate Ceiling Joists
Most Australian residential ceilings are plasterboard fixed to timber joists (rafters) at 450mm or 600mm centres. Mounting brackets must fix into joists, not plasterboard alone. Use a stud finder or the knocking method to locate joists. Mark their positions with a pencil line.
If your ceiling is concrete or an exposed steel structure (common in larger commercial garages and workshops), different fixing methods apply. Concrete anchors (dynabolts) or beam clamps for steel are the standard solutions. Your installer guide will specify the correct fixing for your ceiling type.
Step 3: Mark Bracket Positions
Using your layout plan and joist positions, mark where each panel bracket will be fixed. Use a spirit level to ensure the first panel is level; subsequent panels are positioned relative to the first, so an unlevel start will compound across the system.
Step 4: Mount the First Bracket and Panel
Drill pilot holes at your marked positions (use the bit size specified in your installation guide to avoid splitting the joist). Fix the bracket securely. Attach the first panel to the bracket. Check it is level before proceeding.
Step 5: Connect Additional Panels
HEXA's modular connector system allows panels to connect edge-to-edge. The connectors carry both power and keep the panels aligned. Connect each panel to its neighbour according to the layout you planned in Step 1. For larger configurations, work from the centre outward to keep the system balanced and reduce the risk of alignment drift.
Step 6: Cable Management
Route the power cable from the system to the nearest power point (plug-in) or to the ceiling knockout (hardwired). Use cable clips or surface conduit to keep the cable close to the wall or ceiling, away from pathways and access routes. In a garage where ladders and long items are stored, cable management is important for safety as well as appearance.
Step 7: Connect Power
For plug-in systems: plug the cable into your power point. The system should illuminate immediately. If any panel does not light, check the connector at that panel first, as a loose connection is the most common cause.
For hardwired systems: this step must be performed by a licensed electrician. The electrician will connect the fixed wiring to the circuit at the switchboard, install the appropriate circuit protection, and test the installation to comply with AS/NZS 3000. Do not attempt this step yourself.
Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid
- Not finding joists before drilling: plasterboard alone will not hold the weight of a multi-panel system.
- Starting unlevel: a slight tilt in the first panel becomes obvious across a 10-panel system.
- Routing cable in traffic areas: cable clips are not a substitute for proper conduit where a cable will be exposed to physical contact.
- Overloading a single power circuit: check the circuit's existing load before adding a large hex system. A double garage system (~600W) on a circuit already running workshop tools may trip the breaker.
For questions about whether your installation requires an electrician, see our article on whether hexagon lights need an electrician. Once installed, see how to maintain your hexagon LED lights to keep your system performing at its best.
Frequently asked questions
How do you install hexagon lights on a ceiling?
Installation depends on the system type. For plug-in hexagon lights: plan the layout, mark stud or joist positions, mount the first panel bracket, connect the panels, route the cable to a power point. For hardwired systems, engage a licensed electrician for the final connection to the ceiling circuit.
Can I install hexagon lights without drilling into the ceiling?
Some hexagon light systems offer adhesive or clip mounting options suitable for smooth ceiling surfaces. However, most installations recommend bracket mounting into ceiling joists for a secure, long-term hold.
How long does it take to install hexagon lights?
For a standard plug-in Penta system, an experienced installer typically takes 1-2 hours including layout marking and cable management. A double garage hardwired system with an electrician may take 3-4 hours.
What tools do I need to install hexagon lights?
For a standard ceiling installation: a drill, a stud/joist finder, a level, a pencil, cable clips or conduit, and a ladder. For hardwired systems, a licensed electrician will bring the necessary electrical tools and test equipment.
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