What is the red wire in a light switch?

If you need to know where to connect the red wire to a light switch, the answer is it depends. Read on to learn the difference and avoid having to rewire. read more

If the wire still is hot, the wire is a hot wire that delivers electrical power to the branch circuit. If turning the switch off turns the wire off, the red wire delivers power from the light switch. Note: Never touch wires or their connection points while the circuit is energized. read more

If the switch that was there is a standard light switch with two brass screws on it and one green screw, you can connect the red wire to either of the brass screws. Connect the black wire to the other brass screw. read more

If you change a light fixture and find a red wire in the electrical box, chances are the black wire from the fixture needs to go to the red wire in the box. Normally you’ll see a red wire in places you would expect a ceiling fan. read more