You Replaced A Light Switch – Now Things Do Not Work Right
|
I replaced a switch but now some things are not working right, how do I fix this? How to Fix Light Switch Wiring. |
Light Switch Wiring
Question: I replaced a switch but now some things are not working right, how do I fix this?
Tim, a Homeowner in Minnesota asks:
- I replaced a double switch for a light and fan in my bathroom and now when I turn off the bathroom light (only) it turns off all power to the adjoining bedroom and to the lights only in the laundry room that is directly below.
- The light is not working right. Why is this happening and how do I fix it?
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Tim.
Skill Level: Intermediate – Best performed by a Licensed Electrician.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools and Voltage Tester.
Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience and ability to work with tools.
Precaution: Identify the circuit of the light fixture and switch, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
Notice: Installing additional fixture wiring should be done according to local and national electrical codes, however replacing a light switch does not require a permit in most locations.
Materials: Make sure the replacement light switch has the same amperage and voltage rating as the original switch, and is fully compatible with the electrical circuit, the light fixture and the type of light bulbs being used.
How to Fix Light Switch Wiring
- Tim, you obviously changed the wiring configuration when you replaced the switch.
- The following wiring in the switch box will need to be identified: The Source Power In, The Power Leading Out to other areas, and the Switch Wires leading to the Light and Fan.
- Once these items have been identified then it is possible to make the correct wiring connections.
- From what you have described it appears that you have wired the power leading out that feeds the bedroom and laundry through the bathroom light switch.
More about Light Switch Wiring
Wiring a Light Switch
Wiring a Light Switch – Diagram 1
- Fully explained pictures and wiring diagrams about wiring light switches.
- Describing the most common switches starting with photo diagram 1.
How to Use Electrical Testers
Electrical Safety and Voltage Testers
- When working on home electrical wiring, quality voltage testers can play an important part in electrical safety.
- Electrical testers enable you to identify electrical circuits and help prevent the possibility of accidental electrical shock.
The following may also be helpful for you:
Learn more about Home Electrical Wiring
|
||||||||
Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wires!The Non-Contact Electrical TesterThis is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.
The Quickest Way to Check for Faulty Electrical Wiring!The Plug-In Outlet TesterThis is the first tool I grab to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring. This popular tester is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring. It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect Very handy and easy to use.
Strip Off Wire Insulation without Nicking and Damaging the Electric Wire!The Wire Stripper and Wire CutterMy absolute favorite wire stripping tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and this is the tool I use to safely strip electrical wires. This handy tool has multiple uses: The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation. The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets.. The wire stripper will work on both solid and stranded wire. This tool is Very Handy and Easy to Use. |
||
| More articles about Light Switch, Troubleshooting and Home Electrical Wiring: | |
| « Previous | Next » |
| Grounding a Panel in a Detached Building | I Lost Power to My House How Do I Fix It? |
