By: Barry Stone
Dear Barry,
I tried to install a ceiling fan in my living room but was confused by the color scheme of the wires. Of the three wires coming from the ceiling, I have a gray, a yellow, and a purple, but I haven't been able to figure out which
of these wires does what. Your advice would be appreciated. --Rick
Dear Rick,
The usual color orientation for residential wiring is black for hot, white for neutral and green or bare wire for ground. In the case of unfamiliar wiring, the wise course of action is to employ the services of a licensed electrical contractor. In fact, unless you have professional knowledge and experience regarding electrical wiring, a qualified electrician is the only one who should install your fanlight or perform any manner of electrical work in your home.
An electrician won't evaluate your wiring on the basis of coloration. Instead, the lines will be tested to determine which is the hot, the neutral, and the ground. The very fact that your wires are not typically colored may indicate substandard wiring by a nonprofessional, and this would also warrant consideration by a qualified expert.
Wiring decisions should not be a matter of guesswork. To ensure against fire, electric shock and damaged equipment, the services of an electrical professional are always advisable.
. Questions of a Do It Yourself nature should be submitted to our "