Light Switch Wiring, Two Switch Circuits For Homes You Should Know

If yes, you should know the basics of how the switches work and how they control your electricity. You should not proceed without knowing these basics. Otherwise, you may risk getting electrocuted. Be sure to turn off power at the breaker box before working on any electrical circuits in your home. Other then that you need to remember nearly two things regarding light switch wiring for homes: operation of power-through switches and function of end-line switches. But before that, you should look at how light switch wiring works.

A light switch wiring function depends on whether the power comes into the switch box or the light fixture first. As already mentioned, these are the two types of electrical wiring switches that you usually see in residential properties in the US.

Wiring of an end-line switch

You will see that the power connects directly into the switch for end-line switches. These switches consist of a hot lead wired to one of the terminals at the switch and then a neutral wire marked with a black tape connected to the other terminal on the switch. Essentially the power passes through the switch before reaching the light fixture. You will see the black lead uncut or two black leads connected together with a wire nut at the light fixture box. That is the lead that goes directly to the switch. The neutral (white leads) would go to the light fixture. One of the white leads would have black tape stuck to it to signal the wire coming from the wall switch is hot. The other white lead moves on continues the circuit.

Light switch wiring for power-through switches

Power-through switches wiring ends at the light fixture, unlike the End-line switch where the wiring ends at the switch. So, what does it look like when you remove the switch plate cover of a power-through switch? When you turn off the power and remove the switch from the electrical box, you will see that both terminals on the switch are connected to the black(hot) leads. Then in the electrical box, you will see two neutral wires connected with a wire nut. You will see the black lead and the white lead connected to the light at the light fixture electrical box.

These tips should help you understand your home's light switch wiring. It is imperative to turn the power off to the circuits you choose to work on to avoid electrocution. If you are searching for help with your home's electrical circuits, give System of Solutions of Washington a call. They have licensed electricians who can deal with all types of electrical issues in your home.