Why Do I Have Two Black Wires On My Light Switch?

How many people does it take to change a light bulb? This old joke comes with a variety of tongue-in-cheek answers. However, when we start talking about changing a light switch, the jokes die down a bit. Changing out your old almond light switch for a more modern look is not as hard as it may seem. However, if you are new to the game, it is better to call an electrician or try it out under the eye of someone experienced in the field.

If you take the light switch cover off, you will notice a few different colors of wires running through the box. So, what is the purpose of the two black wires in the light switch?

The two black wires connected to your light switch are called hot wires or terminal wires. The first black hot wire will connect to the bottom terminal screw. Then, the second hot wire will connect to the top terminal screw and run through the ceiling box to the light fitting. You will also notice white neutral wires and green or copper ground wires in your light switch.

We’ll look at how to safely work with your light switch and give you an idea of what goes on inside when you turn on the light bulb.

If you take off your light switch plate, you will see a few different color wires. However, where do they come from and where do they go?

Residential homes have a breaker box as the main center for the wires in your home. If one area of your home is overloaded on the electrical front, it can trip the breaker and leave that part of the home without power. Most of us have had experience checking out the breaker box and turning areas of the house on and off. The breaker box is exactly where you should start when you are working on any part of your home involving electricity. Flip the breaker that is connected to your light switch off so you can work safely.

Your light may still work even if the wires are reversed. However, if you fix the hot wire where the neutral wire should be, this could give you a shock when you are changing the bulb. In a worst-case scenario, it could spark, causing a fire. It is important to return each wire to the correct position when you work with light fixtures.

Luckily, if you are changing out a single-pole light switch, you will only work with the ground wires and hot wires. This process is fairly simple and straightforward. If more intense work or repairs need to be done to your light, we recommend calling a qualified electrician.

Related Questions

What is the current trend in light switches?

There was the push button light switch, the dimmer knob, and the flip switch. Now a new trend is beginning for the light switch, the smart switch. This light switch makes turning your lights on and off even more convenient.  You can control your lights without having to get up and flip the switch. Many smart light switches are multi-way switches that you are able to control remotely.

Which light bulbs are the most efficient?

LED light bulbs are much more efficient than their incandescent, energy-efficient light bulbs (CFLs), and halogen counterparts. LEDs provide a solid light source and also use less electricity. You will notice LED lightbulbs often have a longer life span than other types of light bulbs.

Is a positive wire the same as a hot wire?

A positive wire has the same meaning as a hot wire or live wire. This wire carries electricity. It is the source of electricity and can be dangerous if handled incorrectly. In the U.S., this wire will usually be black in color.