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You need a volt meter to find the two wires that are the supply and likely the other two wires go to the switch. In some older houses it is impossible to tell wire colors because of the older wire insulation. Turn off the power at the main panel for starters. Separate all 4 wires so none are touching. check each possible pair to find out which pair belongs to the switch. Put ohm meter probes across a pair. Have someone operate the switch and see if the ohm meter goes between open and closed. There are only 6 combinations you have to check. You can also trace out wires with a tone generator.

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Q: How do you install a light fixture when the old wiring in the ceiling has 4 unmarked wires?
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How do you replace dining room light fixture?

If you don't know how to install light fixture, I don't recommend that you do it by yourself. The installation theory is actually very simple - all you need to do is attach fixture on the ceiling (or any other place) and then connect the electrical wires (usually there are two of them). After that it's good to put the light cover over the fixture to improve the appearance.


Wiring A Ceiling Fan?

form_title= Wiring A Ceiling Fan form_header= Cool off with a new ceiling fan. Is the ceiling fan installed?*= () Yes () No Is there a light included in the ceiling fan?*= () Yes () No Please describe the wiring problem in detail.*= _ [50]


Where does a new fixture's ground wire go when wiring in the ceiling of a 1940s-era house has only two wires and a metal clamp screwed into the wooden joists to bear the weight of the light fixture?

Just tuck it away in the box. Unless you run ground wires throughout the house it won't serve any purpose.


How do you install a chandelier with 2 no color wires and the ceiling has red white and black?

If the situation is exactly as you described it, you call a licensed electrician! I'm totally serious.As you describe the situation, you have 220 wiring from the ceiling, and a 110V chandelier. Get an electrician to sort that one out!


How do you check electrical ceiling wiring?

If you appear to have a problem with wiring in ceiling and no ceiling access, you may have to make your own access. One way in a Sheetrock ceiling would be to cut a hole that will fit a quick access panel. This way you won't have to repair and repairing the area.

Related questions

Can I install an audio speaker on my ceiling?

You can do this easily if you buy ceiling speakers. These are often ceiling or wall speakers. You should take care to avoid electrical wiring while installing.


How do you replace dining room light fixture?

If you don't know how to install light fixture, I don't recommend that you do it by yourself. The installation theory is actually very simple - all you need to do is attach fixture on the ceiling (or any other place) and then connect the electrical wires (usually there are two of them). After that it's good to put the light cover over the fixture to improve the appearance.


Wiring A Ceiling Fan?

form_title= Wiring A Ceiling Fan form_header= Cool off with a new ceiling fan. Is the ceiling fan installed?*= () Yes () No Is there a light included in the ceiling fan?*= () Yes () No Please describe the wiring problem in detail.*= _ [50]


Can an amateur install a ceiling fan or should they leave it to the professionals?

A professional or someone with electronic experience will be necessary to install this fan.


Installing A Ceiling Light?

Installing a Ceiling LightInstalling A Ceiling LightReplacing ceiling lights is sometimes a required task when you decide remodel a room or the light fixture has worn out with age. Installing a new ceiling light is a simple task that can be done by most homeowners without any outside help.The first thing to do before installing any light in your ceiling is to turn off the power at the circuit breaker. Since you will be working with electrical wiring, you do not want to take the chance of being shocked or electrocuted. After the power is turned off, unscrew the light bulb from the existing fixture and use a screwdriver take out the screws holding the fixture in place and connecting the wires to the fixture.When the fixture is off, attach a mounting plate to the ceiling light outlet box. Then attach the wires to the new ceiling light fixture. Connect the copper wires together and like colored wires together with wire nuts so that the fixture is properly grounded.Attach the base of the new fixture over the outlet box and tighten it up with screws. Once this is finished, screw the light bulb back into place and put a glass bowl over the bulb to cover it. Use bolts on sides of the fixture to secure the glass bowl in place.Once the fixture is securely in place, return to the circuit breaker. Turn back on the power and test out the light to ensure everything is installed correctly.


Is it fairly easy to learn how to install light fixtures, or is it best left to someone who has had proper training?

It isn't difficult to install a light fixture, provided the wiring is in place and in good condition. Much depends on your confidence level and knowledge of the basics of how wiring is connected and how it works. Light fixtures and ceiling fans come with detailed, illustrated instructions for installation and it is widely considered a DIY for many people. If you have the proper tools and feel you possess the basic skills, and feel comfortable tackling the project, it is very likely that you will be successful.


What tools are needed to install bathroom lighting?

To install bathroom lighting, one would need the fixture, light bulbs, a drywall saw, and electrical wiring. And always turn off electricity before doing a DIY project like this!


How do you install outdoor ceiling lights?

Make sure that you have the correct wiring that you need and then follow the wiring diagram that came with your lights. You may also need to decide on the best place to place your motion sensor if you have that type of lighting.


How To Install A Lighting Fixture Onto Your Ceiling Fan?

There are many beautiful lighting fixtures available that can be installed onto a ceiling fan. These lighting fixtures can create a special atmosphere are provide great lighting options within a room. Installing lighting fixtures are very easy to complete yourself on a ceiling fan that is already in place. Here is a guide to help you complete this project in your home. Step 1. Gather all of the products, tools and supplies you will need to complete your lighting fixture installation. For this project you will need a screwdriver, a pair of pliers, wire insulation stripper, your chosen light fixture kit and a step ladder. Step 2. Before you begin with the installation process, you will need to turn off the power to the switch that controls your ceiling fan at the breaker box. Step 3. Remove all glass fixtures that come with the light fixture for your ceiling fan. In the center of your light fixture you will find a tube with a nut and washers. Both the nut and washers should be removed and set aside for later. Remove the center of the canopy and place it on the top of your ceiling fan lighting fixture where the tube is positioned. The canopy with thread downward or slide down over the tubing. Using the washers and nuts that you set aside, tight the canopy onto the lighting fixture. Make sure that this is tight but do not over tighten. Pass the black and white wire that is on your light fixture through the hollow center tube. Use a gentle pull to accomplish this so that the wires do not break. You will be able to see the inside wiring of the ceiling fan. Pull the black and white wires that are used for lighting fixture installation down. If these wires are insulated at the end, remove the insulation cap. If no insulation cap is present, strip about one half inches of the insulation off of each wire. Connect the white wire on the ceiling fan with the white wire on the lighting fixture. Connect the black wire on the ceiling fan with the black wire on the lighting fixture. Finish this by twisting the exposed wires and cap each set of wires. Tuck these wires back into the ceiling fan without breaking them. Replace the screws and tighten them securely without over tightening. Step 4. Place the glass covers that come with the light fixture in place. Insert all necessary light bulbs as needed. Restore the power supply to the ceiling fan. If necessary, attach a pull cord for your lighting fixture.


Where does a new fixture's ground wire go when wiring in the ceiling of a 1940s-era house has only two wires and a metal clamp screwed into the wooden joists to bear the weight of the light fixture?

Just tuck it away in the box. Unless you run ground wires throughout the house it won't serve any purpose.


How do you install a chandelier with 2 no color wires and the ceiling has red white and black?

If the situation is exactly as you described it, you call a licensed electrician! I'm totally serious.As you describe the situation, you have 220 wiring from the ceiling, and a 110V chandelier. Get an electrician to sort that one out!


How do you check electrical ceiling wiring?

If you appear to have a problem with wiring in ceiling and no ceiling access, you may have to make your own access. One way in a Sheetrock ceiling would be to cut a hole that will fit a quick access panel. This way you won't have to repair and repairing the area.