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Electrical Wiring

load/line

12 years ago

I'm trying to replace a regular light switch with a motion activated switch that automatically turns off after xx min. I'm of course trying to save some $$$ by DIY

I'm by no means a handyman, but I figured I could be able to replace like item with like item.

Upon opening the switch, I see a two black wires and a loose green wire. I understand the green is the ground, and I can connect that to the new switch. However, on the new switch it wants 1 black and 1 blue wire. I understand one is "hot" and the other is "load" but I can't tell which is which.

Is it bad/dangerous if I take my 50/50 chance and try it out, and if it doesn't work change it? Or do I really need to invest in a circuit tester to find out which is "hot"?

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Comments (2)

btharmy
12 years ago
If you plan on doing ANY diy electrical work, the investment in a tester is a required investment in order to work safely. The fact that it will aid in troubleshooting is just a bonus.
hendricus
12 years ago
2 bucks for an idiot light circuit tester is not a big investment. Put one probe on a black wire and the other on the ground wire. Repeat with the other black wire and you've got it.
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