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    tdferg's Avatar
    tdferg Posts: 4, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Jul 17, 2010, 10:25 AM
    How do I wire two new ceiling fans to replace two existing light fixtures?
    In a bedroom I have two light fixtures that operate off one wall switch. I want to replace these existing fixtures with two new ceiling fans with lights. I am assuming I will need a new type wall switch. What will be the wiring sequence I need to consider?
    stanfortyman's Avatar
    stanfortyman Posts: 5,598, Reputation: 279
    Electrical & Lighting Expert
    		  
    #2

    Jul 17, 2010, 11:39 AM

    Not much really. The wall switch will turn everything on or off.

    Unless it was pre-wire specifically for fans you will not be able to control anything separately, except for using the pull chains.
    tdferg's Avatar
    tdferg Posts: 4, Reputation: 1
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    #3

    Jul 17, 2010, 12:35 PM
    Since I have attic access to the existing light fixtures and to where the wire comes up from the wall switch to the fixtures, can I re-wire for the new ceiling fans?
    stanfortyman's Avatar
    stanfortyman Posts: 5,598, Reputation: 279
    Electrical & Lighting Expert
    		  
    #4

    Jul 17, 2010, 06:46 PM

    If that is the case of course you can. It all depends on how you want to control them. Lights and fans, together or separate.
    tdferg's Avatar
    tdferg Posts: 4, Reputation: 1
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    #5

    Jul 17, 2010, 07:44 PM

    Great! I want to control the lights with one switch and the fans with the other. I just need to know what the wiring sequence should be.
    The line coming into the existing switch right now has a black, white, red and ground.
    I would really appreciate some help. Thank you!
    ceilingfanrepair's Avatar
    ceilingfanrepair Posts: 5,733, Reputation: 109
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    #6

    Jul 19, 2010, 01:23 PM

    In that case, all you need to do is run wire between the two ceiling boxes. Most likely 14/3.

    Tell us what wires you have in each box.
    tdferg's Avatar
    tdferg Posts: 4, Reputation: 1
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    #7

    Jul 24, 2010, 12:04 PM
    Coming to the switch box is 14/3. From the switch to the existing ceiling fixtures is 14/2. I'm thinking I will need to replace the 14/2 from the switch box to the first existing light with 14/3. Correct?
    I'm thinking I will needthe extra "hot" to accommodate the new ceiling fans that will have light kits.
    ceilingfanrepair's Avatar
    ceilingfanrepair Posts: 5,733, Reputation: 109
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    #8

    Aug 13, 2010, 07:09 PM

    Correct. You will also need 14/3 between the two fans.
    ma0641's Avatar
    ma0641 Posts: 15,675, Reputation: 1012
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    #9

    Aug 14, 2010, 11:14 AM

    Check the ceiling boxes prior to hanging a fan. Older light boxes are not rated to support a fan. Unless they are marked "FAN " or FAN rated, you need to change them for a fan rated box. Since you have attic access, this is an easy job. Be safe!
    massplumber2008's Avatar
    massplumber2008 Posts: 12,832, Reputation: 1212
    Senior Plumbing Expert
    		  
    #10

    Aug 15, 2010, 03:21 PM

    Great point Ma0641!

    I'd recommend an adjustable ceiling fan support like in the picture below... available at all home supply stores. These supports span the joist bay and carry the weight of the fan... the electrical box can be slid on the support to align with the existing hole in the ceiling.

    I also attached an image of a box like Ma0641 was talking about... see image.

    Mark
    Attached Images
      
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