Wiring a Light Fixture to a GFCI Outlet
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I added a spot light to an outside receptacle, checked for voltage before closing up box, now the light does not work, could it be the GFCI receptacle? © By: Dave Rongey |
Light Fixture and GFCI Outlet
Electrical Project: I installed a spot light to an outside GFCI receptacle but now the light does not work, could the GFCI outlet be bad?
- I added a spot light (hard wired) to an outside receptacle.
- I checked for voltage before closing up box and had it.
- I then turned off the breaker and put covers on.
- I turned the breaker back on, tested the receptacle and had no power.
- The breaker was on and OK and GFCI did not kick off.
- The GFCI receptacle was on and had voltage, but nothing down stream had any power.
- Could the GFCI outlet be defective?
This electrical wiring question came from Tom, a Handyman in Florida.
Tom, Thank You for Visiting Ask-the-Electrician!
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Tom.
Problem Wiring a Light Fixture to a GFCI Outlet
- Application: Add to the Wiring a GFCI Outlet.
- Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced – Best performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor or a Certified 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 to the GFCI Outlet, turn it OFF and Tag with a Note before working with the electrical wiring. - Electrical Wiring Parts and Materials:
Electrical parts and materials for the GFCI Outlet 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 location. A permit and inspections may also be required.
Wiring a Light Fixture to a GFCI Outlet
This electrical wiring project is about Adding to the Wiring a GFCI Outlet in the Front Yard of a Old Home.
GFCI Outlet to Light Fixture
- Tom, from the information you have provided, Yes, the GFCI could be defective.
- Make sure the wiring connections to the GFCI outlet are correct.
- Check the orientation of the wiring to the LINE and LOAD of the GFCI outlet.
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