FAQ'S:
The information contained on this page (or website) is meant as a general guide, and should in no way be a substitute for competent, professional electrical work from a licensed, reputable electrican. MJB Electrical assumes no fault or liability for visitors desiring to perform electrical repair(s) and installation(s) on their own. Always De-energize power from the source (service panel) before performing any electrical work.
Q: What is the proper way to install a receptacle?
A: First, whenever connecting wire(s) inside a junction box, always connect one wire and only one wire to each terminal. The wire may run through the terminal or be "looped" through the terminal so that it can be 'wire-nutted' to another wire. Do not use the adjacent terminal screw as a connection point for 2 or more wires. The only accepted method to joining 2 or more wires together is with the use of a wire nut. Be sure to use the proper size when connecting wires. Observe 'polarity' when connecting wires to a receptacle. In other words, connect the neutral wire (usually identified by white insulation) to the side of the receptacle that has the silver colored terminal or when looking at the receptacle, the side with the longer shaped slot, then connect the other wire (hot), (usually identified by a color other than white), to the other side of the receptacle with the smaller slot, or the terminal that has a brass or black color screw. Screw in or tighten unused screws on the receptacle. Note: Some receptacles have insertion or 'spring connections'. These are not a recommended practice of connection, and may result in overheating of the receptacle and/or possibly a fire. Always use the screw terminals when making connections. It is always a good practice to 'wrap' the wire in the direction of tightening the screw. When all connections are made, install receptacle inside box taking care not to pinch any wires. Install cover plate, and test.
A: Usually, a junction box with a toggle (snap) switch has 2 wires coming in. One is the power or supply wire, the other is the load wire to the light or other electrical device. Install the supply wire on one of the terminals, the other (load) wire to the other terminal. For a simple toggle (snap) switch, it doesn't matter which wire goes to which terminal. It is always a good practice to 'wrap' the wire in the direction of tightening the screw. If your junction box has one or more neutral or white wires, do not connect these to the switch. Just let these wires pass through the juction box. For specialized switching devices, combination devices, dimmers, etc., follow manufacturers instructions for hookup. Install switch, cover plate, and test.