Identifying Electrical Circuits for Light Fixtures

How to Identify Electrical Wiring for Lighting Circuits

How to Identify Electrical Wiring for Lighting Circuits
Electrical Question: I have two separate switches. One controls a ceiling fan, and one goes to a switch controlled outlet.
The power comes into the switch that controls the outlet. This was once a three way switch, but no more. I have switched out the 3-way switches for single. I am trying to use the red wire of the existing 3-wire to extend power to the switch box that controls the ceiling fan, and then provide power to the fan through the switch. All seems to work fine until I turn off the switch that controls the outlet, then it trips the breaker.

Your Thoughts?

This electrical question came from: Jeff

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Jeff

Identifying Lighting Circuits

Circuit Testing to Identify Electrical Wiring

Identifying Electrical Circuits

From what has been described it is very possible that there are actually two circuits that are found in the switch box, and that you have tied into these two circuits to be used where one circuit is needed.
A voltage tester is required to identify these two circuits so that each circuit may be isolated to its own separate function and remain separate from the other function.
These two circuits may be part of a multi-wire circuit.
Switch wiring such as this can be complicated and is best identified by a qualified electrician.

RESOURCES

Wiring Ceiling Fans

How to Install Ceiling Fans

Take the mystery out of ceiling fan wiring. Ceiling Fans are a great way to lower your energy bill and brighten up one of your favorite rooms.

Ceiling Fan Wiring
Ceiling Fan Wiring diagram #1
Ceiling Fan Installation #1
How to Wire a Switch

Wiring a Light Switch – Diagram 1

Wiring Diagrams

Fully Explained Light Switch Wiring Diagrams. Detailed Electrical Wiring Diagrams and Pictures assist your Home Electrical Projects.

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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, Handywomen, 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
How to Troubleshoot and Repair Electrical Wiring
Wiring Methods for Upgrading Electrical Wiring
NEC Codes for Home Electrical Wiring
....and much more.

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

More articles about Testers and Meters and Home Electrical Wiring:
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Testing Circuits and Circuit Breakers	Identifying Equipment Ground Conductors and the NEC

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Home Electrical Wiring and Electrical Repairs

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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