Light switch wiring question

[jrj512]

So I bought a new normal light switch to replace the seventies-style dimmer in my dining room, which is now the kitty toy room. However, when I tried to install it, I found this, so I figured what better place to get electrical help than a Miata forum, right?



I have never seen anything wired like this. Only the black wires are hot.

Any ideas how to wire the new switch?

[sammm]

That switch is in-line or daisy chained off a circuit...normal stuff. If there are 2 wires on the new switch, connect them to the 2 wires the current switch is using. Turn off the breaker first.

[trickyrix]

Just in case...

[jrj512]

Thanks. Onething called me, too, and explained it.

[Radio-Active]

Pretty typical, although I prefer putting the junction in the light/fan box on the ceiling instead of the lights switch box. More room to work with.

[onething]

Thanks. Onething called me, too, and explained it.

I told him to turn off the main breaker and check in at the nearest LaQuinta.

[HudsonHawk]

Just in case...

Reading through this was funny...

Step 1 - call the fire department... That way your house can burn down completely.

step 2 - turn off the power.. Shouldnt that be step one.

step 3 - Use a class-C or multi-purpose ABC fire extinguisher to put out the flames. You can not use any other kind of fire extinguisher on an electrical fire... Technically, if you did step 2 this is no longer an electrical fire and any type of extinguisher will work.

step 4 - Throw a sodium bicarbonate such as baking soda on the fire to smother it..... Isnt that what the extinguisher is for?

step 5 - Get out of the house and wait for help to arrive. If you have no means to fight the fire yourself or if it's large or spreading quickly... Shouldn't this be step 1 or 2?

[MadMerv]

wimp! I don't need the breaker off......ZZZZZZAP!!!!!!!!

[POS Racing]

I told him to turn off the main breaker and check in at the nearest LaQuinta.