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DIY & Home Improvement

OAITW r.2.0

(32,540 posts)

7. A couple of weeks ago, I had to replace an outdoor light fixture.

Reply to chicoescuela (Reply #5)

Thu May 14, 2026, 01:48 PM

11 hrs ago

I didn't bother shutting power from the circuit breaker, figuring the power was cut off at the light switch. While replacing the fixture, I gave myself a buzz. Turns out I had wired the neutral wire (white) to break switch power instead of the power wire (black). The switch still functioned, but this allowed the lighting fixture to remain hot.

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I have a floppy lightswitch! (And no, this is not a personal problem.) [View all] Beartracks Wednesday OP

Not sure buy I'd buy commercial grade replacements. SheltieLover Wednesday #1

Happens all the time. OAITW r.2.0 Wednesday #2

I'm a chickenshit. chicoescuela Wednesday #5

A couple of weeks ago, I had to replace an outdoor light fixture. OAITW r.2.0 11 hrs ago #7

Exactly my point- safety first chicoescuela 2 hrs ago #8

The worst scenario regarding replacing the switch would be running into aluminum wiring. John1956PA Wednesday #3

Please replace. Janky switches can arc and cause fires if the contacts are not solidly made. usonian Wednesday #4

1: it's a broken switch, not loose wires, definitely ret5hd Wednesday #6