how to connect light switch to outlet




A standard single-pole light switch is the type where you flip the switch up or down to turn the lights on and off. In fact, equipment dealers and electricians refer to this recognizable switch as a "single-pole light switch".

A single-pole switch has two brass terminal screws on the side that connect to the black ("hot") wires of the electrical circuit. One black wire comes from the power source (the electrical panel) and the other goes to one or more light fixtures.

When the switch is on, electricity flows through it from the input wire to the output wire. When the switch is turned off, the flow of electricity stops. Think of it as a drawbridge that cars can cross when it is in position, but when it is open it stops the flow of cars. Most switches also have a green ground screw that connects to the circuit ground wire for a safe "grounding" of the switch.







The operating system wiring diagrams on this page show how to connect a light switch to the ground wire. Always disconnect power from the circuit at the risk of working on the wiring. See how to disconnect power to your home.



Again... white electrical circuit links bypass the breaker UNLESS... a white link has been converted to do the job of a black link. This is sometimes done in homes that are wired with 3-wire non-metallic link (such as Romex® brand), as most homes are. The non-metallic link used for wiring consists of a black link, a white link and a bare or green ground link. Since switch wiring requires a "switch leg" with two black links, the white link is converted to black with black tape or paint. Electrical codes may vary on this practice: some allow it and some do not.





What is the difference between a two-way switch and a three-way switch?

A two-way switch turns lights on or off in one zone. With a three-way switch, you can turn lights on and off in two zones.


What are two types of switches?

There are two types of switches - electrical and mechanical . Mechanical switches require a manual or physical contact. No physical or manual contact is required for electric switches.


What is a triple shaft switch utilized for?

Three shaft or three-way switches are utilized to control at least one lights or installations from different areas, like the top and lower part of a stairwell. Single shaft and three post switches look the equivalent when introduced yet are utilized for various purposes.