Wiring Configuration for Ceiling Fans

Electrical Question from Barbara about Wiring a Ceiling Fan
Background: Barbara, a Homeowner from Houston, Texas
Question: I am trying to wire a ceiling fan that has a white, black and black/white wire (and also a green ground). My junction box has a white, black, red and green ground wire. The wall switch for this fan is a dimmer switch. The fan instructions do not address the red wire. Which wire do I hook the red wire to in the ceiling fan harness. I assume the black and black/white hook to the black on the fan and the white hook to the white.Thanks

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Barbara.
* Here is the wiring configuration:
(Ceiling Fan Wires  – Ceiling Electrical Junction Box Wires, respectively)
Black to Black
Black/White to Red
White to White
Green to Ground
Notes:
The Dimmer Switch can only be used for the Light, not the fan motor.
A Wall Mounted Fan Speed Control can be used for the Fan Motor by itself.
The Ceiling Fan Electrical Box must be Approved for Ceiling Fans and supported according to code.
* Positive identification of the existing wiring can be revealed using a voltage or continuity tester.

The Following links will assist you with your electrical question:

Ceiling Fan Installation

Electrical Wiring Codes

Electrical Testers

This link is helpful as a Homeowner
Do-It-Yourself Electrical

Make sure not to miss these Resources for: How-To-Videos
Electrical Videos

Be Careful and Be Safe – Never Work on Energized Circuits!

For Best Results Consult a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
Locate An Electrical Contractor in Your Area

» 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, Handywomen, 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 Ceiling Fans, Wiring Configurations and Home Electrical Wiring:
« Previous	Next »
Electric Circuit Requirements For Clothes Washer and Dryer	How to Repair Telephone Wiring

Home Electrical Wiring and Electrical Repairs Please Note: Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects: Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor. Electrical Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter. Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area. Precaution: 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.

STAY CONNECTED

ELECTRICAL NEWS UPDATES