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.

» You Can Avoid Costly Mistakes! « Here's How to Do It: 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, Handy Women, 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 Electrical Repair and Home Electrical Wiring:
« Previous	Next »
Dealing With Serious Electrical Repairs	Outlet Wiring Connections