PDA

View Full Version : How to find what a light switch controls


g2man
May 2, 2009, 05:58 PM
I moved into a house with phantom light switches. I took the switch plate off and the switch is connected to two black wires that pass through it - which is good - but for the life of me I cannot find the outlet or light that the switch controls. Any ideas?

hkstroud
May 2, 2009, 07:45 PM
Where is the switch, that is, what room? Is this a newly constructed or fairly new house?

creahands
May 2, 2009, 07:49 PM
Hi g2man

Are there any other wires in switch box? If so, what are there colors and what are they doing?

Where is switch located in house?

Let us know and we may be able to help u

Chuck

ceilingfanrepair
May 4, 2009, 09:02 PM
Don't you hate this? I'm OCD I HAVE to know what every switch does! Usually it's a light that's burned out, wiring for a fan that doesn't exist, an outlet no one uses, or something outside.

ohb0b
May 4, 2009, 09:13 PM
Dont you hate this? I'm OCD I HAVE to know what every switch does! Usually it's a light that's burned out, wiring for a fan that doesnt exist, an outlet no one uses, or something outside.



OR: There used to be a ceiling fixture in the room, but it has been taken down and the box plastered over.

Missouri Bound
May 5, 2009, 07:57 PM
Is there power at the switch?
Does the switch work... meaning does it actually complete a circuit when switched on?

hkstroud
May 6, 2009, 05:12 AM
I've seen new homes, particularly ones with 2 story foyers or high ceilings in " great rooms" come come wired for ceiling fan/lights. No fixture, just a bank of switches and a covered box in the ceiling.

Guess g2man was just idly curious.

ceilingfanrepair
May 6, 2009, 02:36 PM
Or there is a fan wire inside one of the light boxes.