Installing a Dimmer Switch for a Light Fixture
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I am replacing a dimmer switch that controls a light fixture and an outlet. In addition, there is one more black lead that goes somewhere
© By: Dave Rongey
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Dimmer Switch Wiring
[ad#block]Question: I am replacing a dimmer switch that controls a light fixture and an outlet. In addition, there is one more black lead that goes somewhere, not sure where. So while replacing the dimmer, I thought I would separate out the outlet from the light fixture. I have removed a pig tail to the switch and left with 4 black wires. I turned the breaker back on to figure out which black wire is the source back to the breaker. I can touch one wire to two others and get 120 volts on the MM. On the third wire, I get just under 40 volts. What causes only a 40 volt reading on the circuit?
This electrical question came from: Jason, a Homeowner from Whitefield, New Hampshire
See more about Home Wiring for New Hampshire
Additional Comments: Nice resource!
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Jason
The Following links will assist you with your electrical question:
Wiring a Dimmer Switch
3 Way Dimmer Switch Wiring Diagram
Fully explained 3 way dimmer switch wiring diagram will take the mystery out of wiring a 3-way dimmer switch.
The following may also be helpful for you:
A Complete Guide to Home Electrical Wiring
Be sure to get your copy of my BIG Book:
Perfect for Homeowners, Students and Electricians
Includes:
Home Electrical Wiring - Room by Room
120 Volt Circuits
240 Volt Circuits
Multi-Wired Circuits
Wiring Methods for Installing Home Electrical Circuit Wiring
Electrical Codes for Home Electrical Wiring
....and much more.
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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
Electrical Tips to Help You Wire it Right
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The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wires!
The Non-Contact Electrical Tester
This is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.
The Quickest Way to Check for Faulty Electrical Wiring!
The Plug-In Outlet Tester
This is the first tool I grab to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring. This popular tester is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring.
It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets
Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency
Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included
Tests standard 3-wire outlets
UL Listed
Light indicates if wiring is incorrect
Very handy and easy to use.
Strip Off Wire Insulation without Nicking and Damaging the Electric Wire!
The Wire Stripper and Wire Cutter
My absolute favorite wire stripping tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and this is the tool I use to safely strip electrical wires.
This handy tool has multiple uses:
The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation.
The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets..
The wire stripper will work on both solid and stranded wire. This tool is Very Handy and Easy to Use.
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Electrical Parts to Help You Wire it Right
Switches Parts and Accessories
Light Switch Single Pole
3 Way Light Switch
4 Way Light Switch
Switch and Outlet Combo
Dimmer Switch
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