Light switch won't turn off

[SIZE=3]Yesterday I replaced the switches on one of my circuits. No problem. There were only two, one three-way to a light on the patio and a single pole to an overhead fan/light combo in the bedroom.

Then today I replaced the outlets in the bedroom. When I threw the breaker back on, the light/fan wouldn't turn off! I must've messed something up when connecting the outlets, but I can't pinpoint it.

Any suggestions? I may have trouble finding this board again, so please feel free to e-mail me. Thanks for any help you might be able to offer.

Elnora[/SIZE]

 

Do you still have the receptacles you removed? Look at the brass screw side. Are the two brass screws connected with a tab, or has the tab been broken out? Compare with the new receptacle. Make them match. The most likely place this will be true is any receptacle outlet that has a red wire.

If this isn't clear enough, post back with more information and we'll give you more help.

 

As you suggested, I looked for the discarded receptacle that had a red wire. Luckily, a little bit of the red insulation was still visible so I was able to pick out that particular receptacle. I duplicated the wiring, including breaking out the metal tab, and voila! the light will now turn off, which is a very good characteristic in a light <grin>.

Thank you so much for your prompt reply! I saw your post and went right to it, finishing the job at 10 p.m. with a flashlight propped up, illuminating the workspace. I slept much better knowing the problem was solved.

Bless you!
Elnora