What is a Parallel Circuit
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Troubleshooting a problem with a Multi-Wire Branch Circuit? The Difference Between Series and Parallel Electrical Circuit Wiring, Fixing a wiring problem. © By: Dave Rongey |
Electric Circuit Problem
Electrical Problem: How can I troubleshoot a problem with a Multi-Wire Branch Circuit?
- I have a legacy, incorrectly wired 15A MWBC (0V between black and red) with one loop feeding a whole house fan and the other feeding a 1/2 bath, desk outlet and light, and two ceiling fans. I am leaving the breaker for the house fan off until I can correct the wiring in the panel and purchase a tie bar to connect the breaker switches.
- Originally, the 3-wire Romex was split into the separate circuits inside a double wide outlet box with only one outlet in it. It was a jumble of wires, so I moved the split to a separate junction box.
- I added two “convenience” outlets to the BR loop, the first being a GFCI that cuts power to the whole circuit.
- I have tested all the outlets, and they read 121V. I have one set of switched wires waiting for a light for over the sink, and a ceiling fixture box with a temporary drop light socket.
- The light socket reads 121V, but all light bulbs screwed into it burn out immediately.
They never did with the previous fixture. So, I am at a loss to figure out what could be the source of the problem.
Any help would be appreciated.
This electrical question came from: Frank, a Homeowner from New England, USA.
Additional Comments: Looks good!
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Frank.
How to Troubleshoot an Electric Circuit Problem
Application: Wiring a Light Fixture.
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate. This electrical project is best performed by a Licensed Electrician.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools and a Voltage Tester.
Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools.
Precaution: Identify the circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
Notice: Installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and national electrical codes with a permit and be inspected.
Frank, one possibility is that it sounds like you have wired the lighting circuit in series and not parallel.
An Example of Series Circuit and Parallel Circuit
Using a light circuit as an example:
- Series Circuit Wiring is where the load of the entire light circuit is being passed through each light bulb, which would essentially make the light bulb work just like a resistor, which would resist the full circuit power from being available to all of the light bulbs.
- Parallel Circuit Wiring is where the circuit is tapped into for each light or electrical device, and the circuit will not fail if one of the electrical devices is removed or disconnected.
Double check the electrical circuit wiring configuration and your connections.
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