By Dave Rongey Summary:
Electrical Switches Question:
I have an outlet that is controlled by a wall switch. I want to add a ceiling fan in between the switch and the outlet, keeping the outlet controlled by the switch and the ceiling fan always on to be controlled by its pull chains.
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How to Wire a Ceiling Fan From an Outlet and Switch
Electrical Switches Question:
I have an outlet that is controlled by a wall switch. I want to add a ceiling fan in between the switch and the outlet, keeping the outlet controlled by the switch and the ceiling fan always on to be controlled by its pull chains.
What connections do I use in the new junction box I am going to install to achieve this?
Thank You,
Patrick C.
Hi Patrick,
Before proceeding with this project the exact wiring must be identified noting the wire colors and the specific purpose of the wire. When electrical wiring is used for switching the white wire is often used as a switched leg of power, and may not be used as a neutral wire.
In order to supply power to the ceiling fan a power source containing the complete set of hot, neutral and ground wires must be identified from the proposed wiring circuit that you have in mind, and the location of the full source of power will need to be identified as well as this will determine if the existing wiring may be used as it is.
Where ever the full power source is found then a new cable should be installed from that point up to the desired location for the ceiling fan and this will require that the ceiling fan will be operated by the pull chains only, as you wish to have.
Ceiling fan control options:
Patrick, keep in mind that you may purchase a remote control module kit which will enable independent control for both the fan motor speed and separate levels of control for the light kit if the lamps are allowed to be dimmed.
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Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
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.
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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