Don't Understand Old Overhead Light Wiring
#1
05-28-14, 06:03 PM
Don't Understand Old Overhead Light Wiring
I am installing a new overhead light fixture in my 1927 home. I do not understand how the wiring works, but it does work. All I know is shown in the attached drawing. The light works if attached as shown with the two wires being interchangeable (I don't know which would be neutral, as both connections are to a black wire). Is this safe?
#2
05-28-14, 06:05 PM
Group Moderator
Your light switch is a switch leg. You have it shown as switching the neutral which is incorrect. It should be switching the hot wire.
#4
05-28-14, 06:43 PM
Group Moderator
You turn the light off to your fixture to service it. Since you turned the switch off and it's no longer working you assume it's dead but it is still live since you are switching the neutral instead of the hot.
Years ago it seemed to be popular to switch either wire.
Years ago it seemed to be popular to switch either wire.
#5
05-28-14, 06:53 PM
I figured that and edited my post before realizing you had already responded.
I've always turned lights off at the circuit breaker before working on them even though I thought it unnecessary. Now I see there is good reason to do that.
I've always turned lights off at the circuit breaker before working on them even though I thought it unnecessary. Now I see there is good reason to do that.
#7
05-29-14, 07:07 PM
Group Moderator
