Can I Use A Remote Control Switch For Lighting?

How to Wire a Remote Control for Light Fixtures: Installing a Control Module, Wiring the Control Devices, Security and Monitoring Options.

Guide for Controlling Lighting Fixtures with a Remote Control
Electrical Question: I want to put in track lighting in the ceiling to compliment a fireplace mantel.

• There is a ceiling/fan outlet box already existing.
• My ‘theory’ is that I can run thee wires from the existing outlet box to the new install outlet box.
  My theory/question is: I know the switch that operates the fan will then become the switch that also operates the track lighting, so can I install a remote switch in the new box to turn the track lights on/off.
• The fan already has a remote switch so the actual switch is always on, assuming all wires are ‘hot’ to the fan all the time, and the remote switch actually activates the fan, would the same not be true, if a remote switch is installed for the track lighting, for the newly installed light?
• I am trying to do minimal cutting of the drywall, and I do not know where I can install a new switch. I was thinking this could work?
• Would the remote switch currently on the fan interrupt the wires continued to the new outlet?

Any info would be appreciated.
Background: Greg, a Homeowner from Phoenix, Arizona.

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Greg. Yes your theory is correct.

How to Wire a Remote Control for Light Fixtures

• Installing a Control Module
  A ceiling fan remote module can be applied to a standard light fixture as long as the fixture box or housing has enough room to contain the module and the fixture lamp load does not exceed to capacity of the module.
• Setting the Frequency
  The communication frequency of the modules are adjustable as well which provides a few possible control options.
• Control Options
  There are other control device options as well which operate using PLC, Power Line  Carrier  technology, such as the X-10 modules and control devices.
• Wiring the Control Devices
  When installed on an existing circuit these devices use the standard home wiring to transmit signals which are received by their counterpart modules to provide control for a variety of devices including lighting with dimming capabilities.
• Controlling Other Devices
  Systems such as these have the capability to be controlled using a variety of options from a wall switch, stand alone programmable controller, a personal computer and even integrated internet devices as well.
• Security and Monitoring Options
  If you  wanted to, you could turn on the furnace at your cabin at the Lake before you left the airport using your cell phone, or you could see who is at your driveway entry gate while you are somewhere on vacation or busy at work.
• Control Integration Possibilities
  All the devices are available and ready to integrate for what ever function you desire. The possibilities are endless.

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Dave's Guide to Home Electrical Wiring: » You Can Avoid Costly Mistakes! « Wire It Right with the help of my Illustrated Wiring Book Great for any Home Wiring Project. Complete Guide to Home Electrical Wiring Perfect for Homeowners, Students, Handyman, Handy Women, and Electricians Includes: Wiring GFCI Outlets Wiring Home Electric Circuits 120 Volt and 240 Volt Outlet Circuits Wiring Light Switches Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Electric Range Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Dryer Cord and Dryer Outlet Troubleshoot and Repair Electrical Wiring Wiring Methods for Upgrading Electrical Wiring NEC Codes for Home Electrical Wiring ....and much more. Learn more about Home Electrical Wiring with my Online Video Course: Basic Home Electrical Wiring by Example

Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.

Electrical Tips to Help You Wire it Right The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wires! The Non-Contact Electrical Tester This is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use. The Quickest Way to Check for Faulty Electrical Wiring! The Plug-In Outlet Tester This is the first tool I grab to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring. This popular tester is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring. It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect Very handy and easy to use. Strip Off Wire Insulation without Nicking and Damaging the Electric Wire! The Wire Stripper and Wire Cutter My absolute favorite wire stripping tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and this is the tool I use to safely strip electrical wires. This handy tool has multiple uses: The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation. The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets.. The wire stripper will work on both solid and stranded wire. This tool is Very Handy and Easy to Use.

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