So I took off a broken chandelier and wanted to replace with a simple flush ceiling light. When doing so, I found two black and two white connected properly, but found a lone white wire that was covered by a twist-on. What would this be for? The chandelier never worked after I moved in so I'm not sure. Also, note that the fixture was connected to a rotary knob (dimmer).
Anyway, I wasn't sure what it was for so I attached the lone white to the other two. Now when I turn on the breaker it trips. What would it be for? Thanks!
Best Answer
First never attach unidentified conductors until you identify what it is (standard service electrician training). The lone white conductor that was isolated could very well be a switch leg or a non neutral conductor. It should be identified by a phase tape (black, red or blue tape or some other method), but this isn't always done.
So take the lone white wire off of the neutral, cap it off and leave it alone. Then see if they lighting circuit is working properly and make sure no damage was done by connecting it up. If not knowing what that conductor is for is really bothering you, then trace it out or hire a professional to inspect and identify your circuits and make any corrections as needed.
Good luck and stay safe.