Removing an Older Bath Exhaust Fan

I have removed a wall mount bath exhaust fan. It was on a timer switch. I removed the timer switch

Electrical Wiring Options When Removing an Old Exhaust Fan

Question: I have removed a wall mount bath exhaust fan. It was on a timer switch. I removed the timer switch, I thought the power was not connected to the fan anymore, but it was live.

This is an old house and I am not sure how it is wired.

Now the wire at the fan is live without the switch in the circuit.
1st question is why is the line live?
2nd can I make the box where the switch was a receptacle?

This electrical question came from: Tim, from Syracuse, New York

See more about Home Wiring for New York

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Tim
Wiring a Bath Exhaust Fan
Tim, the old exhaust fan most likely wired where the power came to the fan and then a switched leg went to the timer switch. This is one way that exhaust fans may be wired, and this method works fine. Now that you are removing the old exhaust fan the electrical wiring must be contained in an accessible electrical junction box, and depending on the location and the circuit wiring, you might be able to install a GFI receptacle at this junction box location.

The Following links will assist you with your electrical question:

Bath Exhaust Fan

Bathroom Exhaust Fan

Answers to all of your questions about installing a bath exhaust fan and your bathroom exhaust fan replacement project.

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Wiring Light Switches
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How to Troubleshoot and Repair Electrical Wiring
Wiring Methods for Upgrading Electrical Wiring
NEC Codes for Home Electrical Wiring
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Home Electrical Wiring and Electrical Repairs

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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.