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How do I add a switch to an existing light circuit?
I want to add a ceiling fan to a room that is wired for an overhead light. I want the fan and light to be controlled by different switches. Is it possible for me to just split the hot wire at the light switch (before the switch) and add a new switch, then run a new line to the fixture? I do have access to the attic above the room so running new wires is no problem.
4 Answers
- Jim WLv 71 decade agoFavorite Answer
Yes, that is how it is done. You can use a double switch in the same location, you just need to have another switched lead to the fan location. The biggest problem is to get the wire between the 2 points.
Source(s): 50+ years in the eelctrical industry. - Nuff SedLv 71 decade ago
You can either run a new 14-3 (and abandon the old one in the walls and ceiling after it's disconnected at both ends and all wires are capped together) or install a fan and light combination with a wireless switch. For one of those, just remove the old light, put in the new fixture, turn on the light switch and use the wireless control to turn the fan up or down and the light on or off. Some wireless can actuall attach to the wall with self-adhesive so it looks like a regular light switch. Others are like key-fob for car alarm/lock system.
- 1 decade ago
yes it can be done. you will have to rip out the old 14-2 romex and install 14-3 romex. that can be real easy or real difficult job depending on your house. call an electrician to do this if you are unsure on how to fish the wire through your existing walls. however if you do want to do it, you will have to cut a hole at the point above your electrical box and a point just below the ceiling. fish the wire through and run the new wire through your attic and to the fan electrical box.
ALSO you will have to install a new FAN BOX where the existing device box was for your light. a fan box is rated to support the additional weight of a fan. this can usually be done in your attic.
~~ps, since yahoo answers appears to be international, and industry standards are different from country to country, it would help to mention where you live. another answerer said lights have 5 amp fuses. where I'm from, the overcurrent protection is rated by the current carrying conductors, not the individual device(s)
Source(s): commercial and residential electrician - BeacherLv 71 decade ago
I have done that, but you need to check the fuse rating within the circuit,
lights usually have a 5 amp fuse, I've given this link so you can see how the wires could be connected, be safe.
