Installing old ceiling fixture
#1
07-22-02, 09:08 AM
Installing old ceiling fixture
My mother has an old hanging ceiling fixture that she would like to have installed in her front room. The fixture is wired with the "lamp cord" type of wire. Both wires are copper colored and I cannot tell a difference in texture in either cord, as in smooth or ribbed. How do I know which one is hot and which one is neutral? TIA!
#4
07-22-02, 06:59 PM
Member
An ohmmeter is your best tool. The shell of the bulb socket will show zero resistance to the neutral wire, and infinite resistance to the hot wire. The button at the bottom of the bulb socket will show infinite resistance to the neutral wire, and zero resistance to the hot wire.
The best way to buy an ohmmeter is usually to buy a multimeter. Stores such as Home Depot will have a selection of several to choose from under $20.
Although your light will work properly if connected backwards, it will be safer when connected correctly.
The best way to buy an ohmmeter is usually to buy a multimeter. Stores such as Home Depot will have a selection of several to choose from under $20.
Although your light will work properly if connected backwards, it will be safer when connected correctly.
