Replacing a Ceiling Fan with a Light Fixture

';	Ceiling Fan and Light Fixture Wiring Connections © By: Dave Rongey

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Understanding Ceiling Fan Wiring Connections
[ad#block] I removed a ceiling fan with a light fixture and noticed that there are four wires from the ceiling box. Two black and two white. I want to add just a light fixture that only has one black and one white wire. When I connected the black to black and white wires to white the light stayed on and could not be switched on or off at the wall switch. When I connected the white to black wire I blew a fuse. Could you please show me how to connect the black and white wire from the light fixture to the two black and two white wires from the the ceiling box. Thanks.

This electrical question came from: Steve, a Homeowner from Hamilton, Canada.
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Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Steve.

Ceiling Fan and Light Fixture Wiring Connections

Steve, what you are describing is most likely that one set of the black and white wires are the incoming power being both the hot and neutral, the other set of black and white wires should lead from the ceiling electrical junction box and down to the wall switch, one being the power to the switch, the other being the switched leg bringing the power back to the ceiling light fixture box. This wiring scenario is identified in the wiring diagrams found below.
The Following links will assist you with your electrical question:

How to Install Ceiling Fans and Wiring
Step-by-step pictures – Easy wiring diagrams and installation guide – Light and fan switch variations.

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.

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Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects:

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Electrical Tools Required:
Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter.

Estimated Time:
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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.