Wiring a Separate Light Switch for a Bathroom Combo Light and Exhaust Fan

Question: How to wire a fan and single light switch, so fan stays on and light is controlled at light switch?

This electrical question came from: Dakota, a Contractor from Little Rock, Arkansas.
See more about Home Wiring for Arkansas

Additional Comments: Thank you

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

How to Wire a Separate Light Switch for a Bathroom Combo Light and Exhaust Fan

1. As long as the bathroom exhaust fan and light have separate wire leads or connections in the exhaust fan junction box then a separate wire will be necessary for the separate control for the light fixture.
2. So for example, when the power source is present at the wall switch box, the a 3-wire cable would be installed from the light switch box up to the bathroom exhaust fan unit.
3. The light and fan would share the neutral, however there would be a separate wire for the fan, and a separate wire for the light.
4. So back at the wall switch box, two switches will be required, or one stack-switch could be installed if there is only one space available.

 

The Following links will assist you with your electrical question:

Electrical Wire for the Home

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

You identified your project to be about Bath Exhaust Fan,
so you might find this information useful:

Bath Exhaust Fan

Bathroom Exhaust Fan

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