How to Repair a Light Switch Circuit
|
How to Locate and Repair Faulty Electrical Wiring for Lighting: Secrets of Successful Electrical Troubleshooting Methods used to solve the majority of the home electrical problems. |
Locating and Repairing Faulty Electrical Wiring
Electrical Question: Three different light switches in three nearby bathroom areas will not work but the switch adjacent to the light switch controlling the fan will work on all but one.
- I checked the GFI box and none were tripped, I even reset all applicable ones.
- I checked the circuit between the switches with a current tester and neither light switch was getting a signal.
- Two of the switches that controlled the fan had a strong signal but one of them gave a very weak signal. All electrical outlets in each of the room are fully functional.
- There must be a fuse between all three light switches that has blown and I don’t have a clue where to find it.
Any input would be greatly appreciated.
This electrical wiring question came from: Robert, from North Las Vegas, Nevada.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Robert.
Repairing Faulty Light Circuit Wiring
Application: Troubleshooting and Testing Light Switch Circuit Wiring.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced. This electrical repair project is best performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor or Certified Electrician.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools and Voltage Tester or Continuity Tester.
Estimated Time: Depends on experience and level of problem solving skills.
Precaution: Testing live wires is dangerous and should be done by an experienced individual only. Testing using a continuity tester should only be made after the circuit has been identified and turned OFF and Tagged.
Several Light Switches Do Not Work
- From what has been described I don’t believe you will find a fuse problem, however I do believe there is a problem with an electrical splice or connection which is commonly found either in the switch box or in a fixture box where the power my be spliced through leading to the affected areas.
- The electrical wiring and splices in the switch box should be inspected for burnt and damaged electrical wiring.
- Necessary electrical repairs and replacing affected wiring must be made to ensure proper connections and circuit integrity.
More about Troubleshooting Electrical Wiring Problems
Troubleshooting and Repairing Electrical Wiring
Licensed Electrician Reveals the Secrets of Successful Electrical Troubleshooting Methods used to solve the majority of the home electrical problems and wiring failures encountered.
How to Wire a Switch
Wiring a Light Switch – Diagram 1
Fully Explained Light Switch Wiring Diagrams. Detailed Electrical Wiring Diagrams and Pictures assist your Home Electrical Projects.
Electrical Circuit Wiring
This article looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes.
Electrical Panel Circuit Listing
Understanding Electrical Testers
When working on home electrical wiring using voltage testers can play an important part in electrical safety. Electrical testers enable you to identify electrical circuits and help prevent the possibility of accidental electrical shock.
Types of Electrical Testers
The following may also be helpful for you:
Learn more about Home Electrical Wiring
|
Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wires!The Non-Contact Electrical TesterThis 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 TesterThis 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 CutterMy 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. |
More articles about Electrical Repair, Electrical Troubleshooting, Electrical Wiring and Home Electrical Wiring: | |
« Previous | Next » |
How to Avoid Problems When Replacing Electrical Outlets | Installing Workshop Receptacles |