Ceiling light question
#1
09-10-16, 10:02 AM
Ceiling light question
Hi, I removed the light from our 1950 house. I'm an idiot when it comes to electricity. The extent of my ability is changing light flixtures. The attached picture is what I saw after taking the light off. Why are there three wires twisted together? The twisted wires and the other both gave a hot read with a non-contact tester. Would this be an open neutral? Is this something to be concerned about and should I call an electrician?
#2
09-10-16, 10:59 AM
The twisted wires and the other both gave a hot read with a non-contact tester
Do not disconnect any of the wires just connect the new light the same way as the old light. The real problem here is that wire is only rated for 60° and most lighting fixtures you buy require 90° rated wire.
The real mystery is which wire is neutral. To determine that you will need a multimeter and an extension cord with ground plugged into a known correctly wired grounded receptacle. Using a multimeter you will measure first the single wire then the group of three to the wide slot of the extension cord. Either the single wire or group of wires should measure ~120 volts. That will be your hot.
#3
09-10-16, 11:03 AM
Group Moderator
Welcome to the forums.
I see three white neutrals twisted together with way too much exposed wire.
A non contact test pen is good for one thing only..... to tell you if you have high voltage in the area. You have other hot wires in that box so sure.... you're going to get a high voltage positive indication.
Are you checking for voltage for a particular reason ?
You should invest in an inexpensive meter for voltage testing purposes.
I see three white neutrals twisted together with way too much exposed wire.
A non contact test pen is good for one thing only..... to tell you if you have high voltage in the area. You have other hot wires in that box so sure.... you're going to get a high voltage positive indication.
Are you checking for voltage for a particular reason ?
You should invest in an inexpensive meter for voltage testing purposes.
#4
09-10-16, 11:39 AM
Thank you, I will go pick up a multimeter and give it a try and let you know what I find. For the over expose wires, would electrical tape be the best way to cover these.?
Out of curiosity, what are your thoughts on the week rewiring the house. This is the regional wiring from the 1950s house. And what time should a homeowner consider re-wiring a house like this?
Out of curiosity, what are your thoughts on the week rewiring the house. This is the regional wiring from the 1950s house. And what time should a homeowner consider re-wiring a house like this?
#5
09-10-16, 11:45 AM
Group Moderator
what are your thoughts on the week rewiring the house.
You can use tape. We as electricians use heat shrink tubing.
