Follow standard color codes that identify each wires function in a circuit. Black means hot white signifies neutral and green indicates ground.
Electrical Basics Wiring A Basic Single Pole Light Switch
I have 2 black wires and 1 white wire. Youll have two cables in the switch box a live one with a black and white wire and the one going to the outlet which has a red black and white wire. I tried to figure out the path of power but i wasnt getting the readings i was expecting. The old switch had 3 screws on it. The ground is screwed into the box so i understand that. 2 light brass and 1 dark brass named common. Essentially you connect the white and bare wires directly to the light and switch the black wire hot through a switch.
They should both be of the same wire gauge. When i pulled out the existing switch i noticed i have 2 black wires and a white wire connected to the old switch. 12 awg for 20 amp circuits and 14 awg for 10 and 15 amp circuits. However if you need to rewire a light switch or a plug socket you may occasionally come across two black wires. In the outlet box you will have a black white and bare ground wire. Its essential that you determine which black wire is hot before proceeding.
The easiest and safest way is to use a multimeter to test for current. Knowing which wire does what and goes where is imperative not only in the correct configuration of an electrical system but also for your familys safety. All home electrical wires made in the us.