How to Identify Light Fixture Wiring
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How to Identify and Repair Light Fixture Wiring Problems: The original fixture was wired using the sets of screws as terminals or a junction. Removing these wires and creating a color to color splice or matching the original terminal wiring configuration, then adding the wires from the new fixtures and installing a wire connector should work just fine. |
How to Identify and Repair Light Fixture Wiring Problems
Electrical Question: I have replaced ceiling fixtures before without trouble.
- I went to replace the 3 ceiling light bulbs in my garage with porch ceiling fixtures.
- When I took down the first light bulb, I saw that there were 4 wires (2 black, 2 white) hooked over a total of four contact screws on the back of the plastic socket holding the light bulb.
- One Romex (?) enters the junction box on the south side and another Romex enters on the north side: whites from each were attached to side by side contact screws on the north side of the box, the blacks on the south side and the grounding wire from each were twisted together across the top of the junction box.
- What is this? Is this series wiring? How do I replace the fixture?
I naively wrapped all 3 (including the new fixture) and put up the light. Of course when I flipped the breaker back on and the new fixture won’t light but the other 2 bulbs and the 2 garage door controls work fine.
Do I need a real electrician to navigate this or is it not possible to put porch ceiling lights inside the garage?
Background: Nancy, a Homeowner from Nicholasville, Kentucky.
Additional Comments: Thank you. I’d usually ask my dad, but he’s been ill and can’t see well.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Nancy
Application: Light Fixture Electrical Wiring.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced – Best performed by a Licensed Electrician.
Electrical Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools, Voltage Tester, and appropriate Safety Gear.
Estimated Time: Depends on the personal level experience, ability to work with tools, install electrical circuit wiring, and the available access to the project area.
Electrical Safety: Identify the electrical power source, turn it OFF and Tag with a Note before working with the electrical wiring.
Electrical Wiring Parts and Materials: Electrical parts and materials should be approved for the specific project and compliant with local and national electrical codes.
Electrical Codes and Inspections: Installing or changing home electrical wiring should be done according to local and national electrical codes as adopted in your local area. A permit and inspections may also be required.
How to Identify and Repair Light Fixture Wiring Problems
- The original fixture was wired using the sets of screws as terminals or a junction.
- Removing these wires and creating a color to color splice or matching the original terminal wiring configuration, then adding the wires from the new fixtures and installing a wire connector should work just fine.
- If the new fixture does not light up then double check your splice connections and make sure the light bulbs are good. As for installing the outdoor ceiling fixtures, as long as they are rated to be installed on the ceiling then they should be fine in the garage, unless stated differently in the manufacturers documentation.
More about Electrical Wiring for a Light Fixture
Electrical Junction Boxes for Home Wiring
Understanding electrical junction boxes and what they are used for. Home electrical wiring is the process of installing electrical wire to a location that will serve electrical devices or an appliance. One very important component is the box where the wire will be installed. The type and size of the home wiring electrical boxes will depend upon the circuit size, application and its location.
Lighting For The Home
Lighting Electrical Codes
How to Install Garage Electrical Wiring
Garage Electrical Wiring Guide
Fully Explained Photos and Wiring Diagrams for Garage Electrical Wiring with Code Requirements for most new or remodel projects.
Electrical Grounding Methods and Requirements
Listing of electrical codes for grounding with examples of electrical grounding codes for home electrical wiring.
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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
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