wiring a switch to a timer
#1
08-17-19, 09:13 AM
wiring a switch to a timer
Sorry for being such a simple question but just need help attaching wires in correct location. Right now have a simple off/on switch and want to replace with a timer. The switch now controls a light and it is the only one connected for it. so somewhat simple but.....I am just not sure on which to connect where off the switch to the timer? I attached photos so if anyone can help me out, greatly appreciated. Thanks.
#2
08-17-19, 09:15 AM
Line goes to the black wire on the switch that is connected to the black in the grey wire nut.
Load goes to the other black wire from the switch.
Neutral goes to the white bundle in the back of the box. You will need a short piece of white wire to make the connection.
Green screw goes to the bare ground wire.
Load goes to the other black wire from the switch.
Neutral goes to the white bundle in the back of the box. You will need a short piece of white wire to make the connection.
Green screw goes to the bare ground wire.
Amadauss
voted this post useful.
#3
08-17-19, 01:02 PM
Thank you very much for the help! Will do as you say. Appreciate it!
Last edited by PJmax; 08-17-19 at 01:12 PM. Reason: added labeled diagram per joeds description
#4
08-17-19, 04:25 PM
Hi, Went to attach a white line for the neutral and pulled that wall switch to make some room to get at that gray cover. Can I put the neutral into that black cover over all those whites? Makes it a little easier. Getting that gray cover off is a bear.
#5
08-17-19, 04:50 PM
Since you have two different breaker circuits in that box the answer is no. You must use the neutral associated with circuit the timer is being installed upon.
Amadauss
voted this post useful.
#6
08-18-19, 07:31 AM
Thanks Joed for the response. Really appreciate the help. Home is 31 years old. So to confirm the neutral line should go into that Gray cover of wires, correct?
#9
08-18-19, 09:06 AM
Here it is. The grey does have a black wire coming out of it. When I turn the breaker off, it shuts down the whole box, so that switch that turned the garage door light on is off as well. Also controls my garage door openers. Home is 31 years old.
#10
08-18-19, 10:05 AM
No, not the grey nut. The black going to the switch has the white from the same cable going to the black nut. Use the black nut for your neutral.
Amadauss
voted this post useful.
#12
08-18-19, 02:33 PM
Group Moderator
I don't see two circuits in that box.
I see a common hot and neutral so that white splice with the black wirenut is the neutral splice.
I see a common hot and neutral so that white splice with the black wirenut is the neutral splice.
Amadauss
voted this post useful.
#13
08-18-19, 03:52 PM
Thank you PJmax for confirming and thanks Joed for all the help. Works!!!! Helped me a great deal here and it means a lot.
#14
08-18-19, 05:10 PM
Group Moderator
Thanks for letting us know how you made out.
