How To Wire Light Fixture Cord Wires
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How can I determine how to connect the wires of a light fixture cord? How to Identify and Connect Light Fixture Cord Wires. © By: Dave Rongey |
Guide to Wiring Light Fixture Cords
Electrical Question: How can I determine how to connect the wires of a light fixture cord?
- I am replacing lights under the shelf on my desk with fluorescent fixtures which are wired in parallel, as I have learned how to do here.
- I want to use the electrical cord that I cut off from the old light to power the new fixtures, since it is already attached to the desk and shelf.
- How can I determine which wire in the cord to attach to the white wire in the fixtures?
- And which to attach to the black?
Background: Johnny, a Homeowner in South Carolina.
Additional Comments: I love this site. It is an excellent resource for me.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Johnny.
Wiring Light Fixture Cord Wires
Application: Wiring a Light Fixture Cord.
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate – Best performed by a Licensed Electrician.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools and Voltage Tester.
Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience, comprehension, and ability to work with tools.
Precaution: Identify the circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
How to Identify 120 Volt Light Fixture Cord Wires
Electric Light Fixture Cords have Two Distinct Indicators
- Flat Light Fixture Cords have two indications that are fairly easy to identify which will reveal how each wire is connected.
- The side of the cord that has Lines on one side identify that side as the neutral.The neutral wire of a 120 volt circuit is typically the white wire.
- The side of the cord that has a Smooth surface identifies that side as the power. The power wire of a 120 volt circuit is typically the black wire.
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