Wiring a Light Fixture to a GFCI Outlet

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 Question: 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, however make sure the wiring connections to the GFCI outlet are correct, especially the orientation of the wiring to the LINE and LOAD of the GFCI outlet.

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