What To Do When No Ground Wire On Light Fixture

Are you wiring a light fixture that has no ground wire on it? If you find yourself in this predicament, keep reading the following information and use it as a guide.

When faced with a situation where there is no ground wire, there are a couple of choices that you should consider. You can wrap the ground wire in the electrical box with tape, allowing it to float in the electrical box. Or, take the ground wire and attach it in the electrical box to the light fixture itself. In many cases, the light fixture has a nut or lug on the chassis frame, used specifically for tying the ground wire to. Prior to installing it, pay close attention to the directions that came with the light fixture.

It is important to know what the purpose of the ground wire is. The ground wire is used to provide a backup path for current, enabling it to flow through in the event a short circuit occurs in the light fixture, or in the electrical wiring itself. Normally, current should only be flowing on the hot or black/red wire and the return or white wire, and not over the ground wire. Never tie ground and return wires together in an electrical box or anywhere else. The only exception is the back at the bus bar in the main electrical circuit panel.

If a short circuit were to occur, the current will flow over the ground wire. As a result of this, the circuit breaker will trip at the main electrical circuit panel. Subsequently, the circuit breaker can shut off the flow of electricity to the circuit and the light fixture, preventing a potential fatal electrical shock or fire from occurring.

If you are installing an electrical light fixture that has no ground wire into an electrical box that also has no ground wire, connect the hot wire from the electrical box to the hot wire or black or red wire on the light fixture. Next, connect together the corresponding white wires or return wire with wire nuts before putting tape on top of them.

Make sure to keep this information in mind while taking care of your light fixture. If you are interested in seeking help from a professional, do not hesitate to find an experienced electrical contractor near you.

Author’s Bio: Afsara Tasnim is a content writer for BreezeMaxWeb, who helps businesses grow their online presence through creating engaging copy. During her spare time, she enjoys taking photographs of nature and exploring the outdoors.

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