Are line and load interchangeable?

On a basic single pole switch the terminals are interchangeable, so as long as you don’t include a neutral wire or swap in a ground wire you can’t really go wrong.

Does it matter which is line and which is load?

Line is the side of the device where the wires from the panel (or other equipment feeding the device) are connected. Load is where any devices that are to be protected by the GFCI device are connected.

What happens if you wire a switch wrong?

What can happen when you wire a smart light switch wrong? The switch may not work. If you connect the hot wire to a ground screw without a functioning ground wire, you can shock yourself. If you damage the wires during installation, you could break the switch, or the wires could come loose.

Which wire is hot line or load?

Line is always hot. Load is the wire going from the switch to the device. Load will only be hot if the switch is closed.

Is load wire white or black?

So, what color is the load wire? Load wires are mostly black, but red can also be used as a secondary load wire. They are also connected to the switch’s top half, while line wires are connected to the switch’s bottom half.

What is the difference between a load and line wire?

In the electrical trades, the terms “line” and “load” are shorthand words that refer to the wires that deliver power from the source to a device (line), vs. those that carry power onward to other devices further along the circuit (load).

Does line or load have power?

What does load and line mean in electrical?

Understanding the Terms “Line” and “Load” in Electrical Systems. In the electrical trades, the terms “line” and “load” are shorthand words that refer to the wires that deliver power from the source to a device (line), vs. those that carry power onward to other devices further along the circuit (load).

What is the difference between load terminals and line connections?

When you connect to both the line and the load terminals, the outlet protects itself and any additional outlets farther down on the same electrical circuit. The line connection is the point where you will connect the incoming feeder wire (also called the line), which is fed from the home’s electrical service panel.

What is Lineline or load with GFCI connection?

Line or Load With GFCI Connection 1 Line Connection. The line connection is the point where you will connect the incoming feeder wire (also called the line), which is fed from the home’s electrical service panel. 2 Load Connection. 3 Ground Connection.

How do I know what wire is my load or line?

If the wire is coming from the top of the switch box, it is likely your load wire. Line Wire – Generally connected to the bottom half of your switch. In some cases, line wires are marked with “line”, “pwr”, or a lightning bolt symbol.

Where do I find the line and load markings on outlets?

The markings for line and load usually are printed on the back of the outlet’s plastic body. The line terminals are easy to see because they are not covered when you remove the outlet from the manufacturer’s packaging.