Question – Ceiling Fan Installation and Dimmer Switches

Installing ceiling fans where fixtures are now on dimmer switches.

© By: Dave Rongey

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I have 4 recessed lights in place on a three-way dimmer switch. I want to remove them and install 2 ceiling fans and 2 track lights with all the lights on dimmer switches.

[ad#block]You will not be able to control the ceiling fan motor with a dimmer switch. From your pictures, it appears that you have a junction box between the ceiling box and the wall switch, as I explained before.
From what you are explaining you will need to have another switch leg installed to control the fan motor separately and not on the same control switch as the lighting.
I have place a few new pages up on the web site that may help assist you with your project. [Click Here]

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Question – Ceiling Fan Light Kit Wiring	Question – Ceiling Fan Replacement

Electrical Tips to Help You Wire it Right

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The Non-Contact Electrical Tester

This is a testing tool that 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.

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The Plug-In Outlet Tester

This is great to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring, is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring.
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The Wire Stripper and Wire Cutter

A wire stripping tool used 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.

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Please Note:
Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects:

Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor.

Electrical Tools Required:
Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter.

Estimated Time:
Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area.

Precaution:
Identify the project circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.

Important:
Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and National Electrical Codes, with a permit and be inspected.

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