What Causes Light Fixtures to Stop Working

I have a wall plug which I use for a table light.

• I attempted to turn the light on, but the light will not work.
• It was working earlier in the day.
• The bulb is good and I reset the breaker for that specific plug and still got nothing.
• Also I noted that two adjacent wall switches are not working either.
• Other wall plugs and switches serviced by that breaker are working.

This electrical question came from: Glen, a Homeowner from San Antonio, Texas.
See more about Home Wiring for Texas

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Glen.

Electrical Circuit Failure and Light Fixtures

• Glen, because you have stated that the electrical power is not working for more devices in this area then the wall light switch should be tested and the wire splices located in the wall switch electrical box should be examined carefully.
• In many cases such as this the problem may be caused by a faulty electrical connection or an electrical splice connection that has failed.
• All electrical junction boxes associated with this circuit should be opened and examined.
• This condition is best identified and repaired by a Licensed Electrical Contractor.

The Following links will assist you with your electrical question:

How to Wire a Switch

Wiring a Light Switch – Diagram 1

• Wiring Diagrams
  Fully Explained Light Switch Wiring Diagrams. Detailed Electrical Wiring Diagrams and Pictures assist your Home Electrical Projects.

Electrical Wire for the Home

Circuit Wiring

• Electrical Circuit Wiring

• This article looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes.

• Electrical Panel Circuit Listing
• Electrical Circuit Breakers

• Home Electrical Circuit Breakers

• A guide to home electrical circuit breakers and how they work to protect your electrical wiring. When properly installed, your home electrical wiring is protected by a circuit protection device.

Guide to Home Electrical Wire

• Electrical Wire for the Home

• Complete listing of electrical wire types and parts used for home projects with electrical code information serves as selection guidelines.

• Lighting For The Home
• Lighting Electrical Codes
• Home Electrical Contractors

Electrical Contractor Directory

Locate an electrical contractor near you.

Splicing Electrical Wires

• Electrical Junction Box Splice

• Electrical junction box splices can be made safely when you understand the method.
• This example will show you how its done step by step and shows how to make a junction box splice and the related electrical codes.
  • Emergency Electrical Splices
  • Wiring Electrical Codes

Using Testers to Identify Electrical Problems

• Testers to Help Solve Electrical Problems

• Troubleshooting Electrical Wiring
• Types of Electrical Testers
• Using Electrical Testers