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-   -   How to find what a light switch controls (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/showthread.php?t=348915)

  • May 2, 2009, 05:58 PM
    g2man
    How to find what a light switch controls
    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?
  • May 2, 2009, 07:45 PM
    hkstroud

    Where is the switch, that is, what room? Is this a newly constructed or fairly new house?
  • May 2, 2009, 07:49 PM
    creahands

    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
  • May 4, 2009, 09:02 PM
    ceilingfanrepair

    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.
  • May 4, 2009, 09:13 PM
    ohb0b
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by ceilingfanrepair View Post
    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.
  • May 5, 2009, 07:57 PM
    Missouri Bound
    Is there power at the switch?
    Does the switch work... meaning does it actually complete a circuit when switched on?
  • May 6, 2009, 05:12 AM
    hkstroud

    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.
  • May 6, 2009, 02:36 PM
    ceilingfanrepair

    Or there is a fan wire inside one of the light boxes.

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