How Do You Install A Light Switch Ground Wire?
A ground wire primarily prevents electrical shock and helps minimize outside electrical interference. Combined with a circuit breaker or fuse, ground wires are the standard safety devices used with residential electrical circuits. The ground wire provides an independent path, separate from the main electrical current path in residential wiring, and is connected to the electrical neutral at the main breaker panel to guarantee a low enough resistance path to trip the circuit breaker in the event of an electrical fault or “short.” Installing the ground wire correctly ensures continuity and safety in the circuit. The procedure is completed when the switch is installed. Turn off the electrical circuit being worked on and make sure no current is present. Cut a piece of 12-gauge copper wire approximately 6 inches long. Use needle-nose pliers to make a small loop at the end of the copper wire piece, then hook the loop around the green ground screw on the light switch and tighten to secure the
