When installing a ceiling fan with a remote, the red wire typically represents the second hot wire in a dual-switch setup (e.g., one switch for the fan and another for the light). Here’s what you should do with the red wire during installation:
1. Identify Your Wiring Setup
Before proceeding, turn off the power at the circuit breaker and confirm the wiring configuration in your ceiling box. Common wires you’ll encounter:
- Black wire: Power for the fan motor.
- Blue wire: Power for the light (if the fan has a light kit).
- White wire: Neutral.
- Green or bare copper wire: Ground.
- Red wire: Typically, a second hot wire for separate fan/light control from the wall switch.
2. Check the Ceiling Fan Remote Module
The remote receiver included with your fan will control both the fan and light from one power source. It generally has:
- Input wires: Black (hot), white (neutral), and sometimes green (ground).
- Output wires: Black (fan), blue (light), and white (neutral).
The remote module eliminates the need for a separate switch to control the fan and light independently, so you might not need the red wire.
3. What to Do with the Red Wire
- If using the remote only:
- Cap the red wire with a wire nut and push it back into the ceiling box. This wire won’t be used since the remote handles fan and light control.
- If keeping wall switch control:
- Connect the red wire to the blue wire (light wire) from the fan. This allows the wall switch to control the light, while the remote controls both the fan and light.
4. Connect the Remaining Wires
- Match the black wire (hot) from the ceiling to the black wire on the remote receiver.
- Connect the white wires (neutral) from the ceiling, remote receiver, and fan.
- Attach the ground wire (green or bare copper) from the ceiling to the fan and receiver.
5. Test and Secure
Once everything is connected, restore power and test the fan and light with the remote. Ensure the red wire is securely capped if not in use to prevent any electrical hazards.
Important Note
Always refer to the manufacturer’s wiring diagram provided with your fan and remote system. If you’re unsure about any step, consult a licensed electrician to ensure a safe installation.
