FAQs
6. Need More Clarity?
Q: What happens if I mix up the common wire with a hot wire?
A: Mixing up the common wire with a hot wire can lead to short circuits, blown fuses, damaged appliances, and even electrical fires. It's a serious safety hazard, so always double-check your wiring before turning the power back on.
Q: Can I use any type of wire for the common wire?
A: No. The common wire should be a neutral wire, typically white or gray, and should be connected to the neutral bar in your electrical panel. Using the wrong type of wire can create a dangerous situation.
Q: My common wire is black. Is that normal?
A: While the common wire is typically white or gray, it's possible that it was re-purposed as a hot wire. You should always verify the wire's function with a multimeter before making any connections. If it's indeed being used as a hot wire, it should be marked with black tape or paint.
Q: I touched a wire and got a small shock, what to do?
A: You should never experience any shock when touching a wire, it means there's some serious problem with the wire, call qualified electrician right away.
