Tag: ceiling-fan-wiring

5 Easy Steps to Connect Ceiling Fan Wires

5 Easy Steps to Connect Ceiling Fan Wires
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Your home’s ceiling fan is an energy-efficient way to keep your home cool during hot weather. It can also help reduce your energy consumption by circulating air, which reduces the load on your air conditioner. In addition, a ceiling fan can add a touch of style to your home décor. If you’re looking for a ceiling fan installation guide, make sure to follow these steps to keep your family safe and your home cool. However, if you have an existing ceiling fan that needs to be repaired, you may be wondering how to connect ceiling fan wires. While this task is not difficult, it is important to take safety precautions and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. One wrong move can lead to electrical shock or fire.

Before you begin, turn off the power to the ceiling fan circuit at the breaker panel. This will help prevent electrical shock. Next, remove the ceiling fan blades and light fixture. Then, locate the wire nuts that are connecting the wires from the ceiling fan to the wires from the electrical box. Unscrew the wire nuts and separate the wires. Now, you are ready to connect the ceiling fan wires. However, before you do so, it is important to identify the different types of wires.

There are three types of wires that you will need to connect: black, white, and green. The black wire is the hot wire, the white wire is the neutral wire, and the green wire is the ground wire. Once you have identified the different types of wires, you can begin connecting them. Start by connecting the black wire from the ceiling fan to the black wire from the electrical box. Next, connect the white wire from the ceiling fan to the white wire from the electrical box. Finally, connect the green wire from the ceiling fan to the green wire from the electrical box. Once you have connected all of the wires, screw on the wire nuts to secure the connections. Now, you can reattach the ceiling fan blades and light fixture, and turn on the power to the ceiling fan circuit. Your ceiling fan should now be working properly.

Identifying the Wires

### To Identify the Wires Yourself, do the following:

The first step in connecting ceiling fan wires is to identify the wires. This can be done by looking at the color of the wires. In most cases, the black wire is the hot wire, the white wire is the neutral wire, and the green or bare copper wire is the ground wire. However, it is always best to check the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure.

Once you have identified the wires, you will need to strip the insulation off the ends of the wires. This can be done with a wire stripper or a utility knife. Be careful not to cut the wires when you are stripping the insulation.

Once the wires are stripped, you will need to connect them to the ceiling fan. The black wire from the ceiling fan should be connected to the black wire from the ceiling. The white wire from the ceiling fan should be connected to the white wire from the ceiling. The green or bare copper wire from the ceiling fan should be connected to the green or bare copper wire from the ceiling.

Once the wires are connected, you can turn on the power to the ceiling fan and test it to make sure it is working properly.

Safety Precautions

Before beginning any electrical work, it is essential to prioritize safety measures to prevent electrical shocks or fires. Follow these precautions to ensure a safe installation process:

Turn Off Power at Electrical Panel

Locate the electrical panel in your home and switch off the power to the circuit that will be supplying electricity to the ceiling fan. Ensure that the power is completely off before proceeding with any other steps.

Confirm Power Is Off

To verify that the power is indeed off, use a non-contact voltage tester to check the wires in the ceiling fan junction box. The tester should indicate “no voltage” if the power is successfully disconnected.

Use Proper Tools and Equipment

Always utilize insulated tools when working with electrical wires. Additionally, wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from any flying debris or sparks.

Hire a Qualified Electrician if Unsure

If you are not confident in your electrical abilities, it is highly recommended to seek the assistance of a licensed electrician. They possess the necessary knowledge and experience to ensure a safe and proper installation.

Additional Safety Considerations

In addition to the above precautions, consider the following safety measures:

Hazard Precaution
Falls Use a sturdy ladder or scaffolding to access the ceiling
Electrical Shock Avoid touching bare wires or connections with wet hands
Fire Keep flammable materials away from the work area

Using Wire Nuts for Connections

Wire nuts are inexpensive and easy-to-use connectors that can be used to join multiple wires together. They are available in various sizes to accommodate different wire gauges. To use a wire nut, simply twist the exposed ends of the wires together and then screw on the wire nut until it is tight. The wire nut will create a secure connection that will not come loose over time.

Using Wire Nuts on Ceiling Fan Wires:

1. Identify the wires. The ceiling fan wires will typically be color-coded. The black wire is the hot wire, the white wire is the neutral wire, and the green or bare copper wire is the ground wire.
2. Strip the insulation from the wires. Using a wire stripper, remove about 1/2 inch of insulation from the ends of the wires.
3. Twist the wires together. Take the exposed ends of the wires and twist them together clockwise. Make sure that the wires are twisted tightly so that they will not come apart.
4. Apply the wire nut. Screw the wire nut onto the twisted wires until it is tight. The wire nut should create a secure connection that will not come loose over time. Here is a table summarizing the steps for using wire nuts on ceiling fan wires:

Step Instructions
1 Identify the wires.
2 Strip the insulation from the wires.
3 Twist the wires together.
4 Apply the wire nut.

Connecting the Wires to the Motor

Now it’s time to connect the wires from the ceiling to the motor of the ceiling fan. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you out:

  1. Locate the wire nuts that are attached to the wires coming from the ceiling. These wires will be either black, white, or green.
  2. Match the black wire from the ceiling to the black wire from the motor. Twist the ends of the wires together and secure them with a wire nut.
  3. Match the white wire from the ceiling to the white wire from the motor. Twist the ends of the wires together and secure them with a wire nut.
  4. Match the green wire from the ceiling to the green wire from the motor. Twist the ends of the wires together and secure them with a wire nut.
  5. If your ceiling fan has a light, you will need to connect the wires for the light as well. The wires for the light will typically be blue, red, and black.
  6. Match the blue wire from the ceiling to the blue wire from the motor. Twist the ends of the wires together and secure them with a wire nut.
    Match the red wire from the ceiling to the red wire from the motor. Twist the ends of the wires together and secure them with a wire nut.
    If your ceiling fan has more than one light, you will need to match the black wire from the ceiling to the black wire from the motor. Twist the ends of the wires together and secure them with a wire nut.
Wire Color Usage
Black Live wire
White Neutral wire
Green Ground wire

Once all of the wires are connected, you can turn on the power to the ceiling fan and test it out. If the ceiling fan is not working properly, you may need to check the connections to make sure that they are secure.

Testing the Connections

After you have made all the connections, it is important to test them to ensure that everything is working properly. Here are the steps on how to test the connections:

1. Turn off the power to the ceiling fan at the circuit breaker or fuse box.

2. Use a multimeter to test the voltage between the black and white wires. The multimeter should read 120 volts.

3. Test the voltage between the black and red wires. The multimeter should read 120 volts.

4. Test the voltage between the white and red wires. The multimeter should read 0 volts.

5. If the multimeter readings are correct, then the connections are good and you can turn the power back on to the ceiling fan.

6. Turn on the ceiling fan and check if it is working properly. The fan should rotate smoothly and quietly.

7. If the ceiling fan is not working properly, then there may be a problem with the connections. Check the connections again and make sure that they are all tight and secure.

8. If the connections are all tight and secure, then there may be a problem with the ceiling fan itself. In this case, you will need to contact a qualified electrician to troubleshoot the problem.

Multimeter Reading Condition
120 volts between black and white wires Good connection
120 volts between black and red wires Good connection
0 volts between white and red wires Good connection

Additional Safety Tips

10. **Double-Check Your Wiring**: Before you turn on the power, double-check all of your wiring connections to make sure they are secure and correct. This will help prevent electrical fires and other hazards.

11. **Label Your Wires**: If you have multiple wires running to your ceiling fan, it’s a good idea to label them so you can easily identify them later on. This will save you time and hassle if you need to make any repairs or changes in the future.

12. **Use a Voltage Tester**: Before you start working on your ceiling fan, use a voltage tester to make sure that the power is turned off. This will help prevent electrical shock and other injuries.

13. **Wear Safety Glasses**: When you are working on your ceiling fan, wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris. This is especially important if you are using a power drill or other tools.

14. **Turn Off the Breaker**: Before you start working on your ceiling fan, turn off the circuit breaker that supplies power to the fan. This will help prevent electrical shock and other injuries.

15. **Read the Instructions**: Before you start working on your ceiling fan, read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. This will help you avoid making costly mistakes and ensure that your fan is installed correctly.

16. **Call a Qualified Electrician**: If you are not comfortable working on electrical wires, call a qualified electrician to help you connect your ceiling fan. This is the safest way to ensure that your fan is installed correctly and safely.

How To Connect Ceiling Fan Wires

Connecting ceiling fan wires can be a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple once you know what you’re doing. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

  1. Turn off the power at the circuit breaker.
  2. Remove the old ceiling fan.
  3. Identify the wires coming from the ceiling. There should be three wires: a black wire, a white wire, and a ground wire (usually green or bare copper).
  4. Connect the black wire from the ceiling to the black wire from the fan. Connect the white wire from the ceiling to the white wire from the fan. Connect the ground wire from the ceiling to the ground wire from the fan.
  5. Secure the wires with wire nuts.
  6. Wrap electrical tape around the wire nuts.
  7. Reinstall the ceiling fan.
  8. Turn on the power at the circuit breaker.

People Also Ask

Can I connect a ceiling fan to any electrical box?

No, you cannot connect a ceiling fan to any electrical box. The electrical box must be rated for the weight of the fan. You should also make sure that the electrical box is properly secured to the ceiling.

How do I know if my ceiling fan is wired correctly?

There are a few ways to tell if your ceiling fan is wired correctly. First, make sure that the fan is securely mounted to the ceiling. Second, turn on the fan and listen for any unusual noises. If you hear any humming or buzzing noises, it could be a sign that the fan is not wired correctly.

What is the ground wire for on a ceiling fan?

The ground wire on a ceiling fan is used to protect you from electrical shock. The ground wire connects the fan to the ground, which is a safe place for electricity to flow. If the fan ever malfunctions, the ground wire will help to prevent electricity from flowing through your body.

5 Simple Steps: Wiring a Ceiling Fan With Light

5 Simple Steps: Wiring a Ceiling Fan With Light

Installing a ceiling fan with a light fixture can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little planning and the right tools, you can have your fan up and running in no time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

First, you’ll need to gather your tools and materials. You’ll need a ceiling fan, a light fixture, wire nuts, electrical tape, a screwdriver, and a drill. Once you have your tools and materials, you’re ready to start the installation process. However, before starting the installation process, ensure you turn off the power to the circuit that will be powering the fan.

The first step is to mount the ceiling fan. To do this, you’ll need to locate the electrical box in your ceiling. Once you’ve found the electrical box, you’ll need to attach the mounting bracket to the box. Once the mounting bracket is in place, you can attach the fan to the bracket. However, before attaching the fan to the bracket, connect the wires from the fan to the wires in the electrical box. Once the wires are connected, you can secure the fan to the mounting bracket.

Materials Required

Gathering the Essential Tools and Components

Before embarking on your ceiling fan installation journey, it is crucial to assemble the necessary tools and components. Begin by acquiring a voltage tester to ensure safety and avoid hazardous electrical shocks. Subsequently, gather a variety of screwdrivers (including Phillips and flathead) and an adjustable wrench or pair of pliers. Electrical tape is essential for securing and insulating wire connections, while wire strippers or a utility knife will facilitate the removal of wire insulation. Other indispensable items include a ceiling fan box (or old work electrical box), wire nuts, and grounding wire. Lastly, don’t forget the ceiling fan itself, which will be the centerpiece of your electrical endeavor.

Wire Specifications

The choice of wire is paramount to the successful functioning of your ceiling fan. Opt for 14-gauge copper wire for both the power and switch legs. These wires should be color-coded to distinguish them: black for the hot wire, white for the neutral wire, and green or bare copper for the ground wire. The length of wire required will depend on the distance between the ceiling fan and the electrical box. It is advisable to purchase additional wire to accommodate any unforeseen circumstances.

Wire Type Color Code
Hot Wire Black
Neutral Wire White
Ground Wire Green or Bare Copper

Safety Precautions

Before you start wiring your ceiling fan, it’s important to take some safety precautions to avoid any accidents or injuries.

Turn Off the Power

The first and most important step is to turn off the power to the circuit that will be powering your ceiling fan. This can be done by flipping the breaker or removing the fuse that corresponds to that circuit. Once the power is off, you can safely proceed with the wiring.

Use Proper Tools and Materials

It’s important to use the proper tools and materials when wiring your ceiling fan. This includes a screwdriver, electrical tape, wire nuts, and a voltage tester. Make sure that the tools and materials you are using are rated for the voltage of the circuit that you are working on.

Proper Wire and Box Preparation

Ensure that the electrical box is securely fastened to the ceiling joist. Check that the box can support the weight of the fan. You need to have at least 8 inches of wire from the box to connect to the wires from the ceiling fan. If the wires are too short, you’ll need to splice in some additional wire.

Strip the outer insulation off the ends of the wires using a wire stripper. Twist the exposed wires tightly together to create a secure connection. Secure the wire nuts over the twisted wires and tighten them down firmly with a pair of pliers.

Now, you can connect the wires from the ceiling fan to the wires from the electrical box. Use the following table as a guide:

Ceiling Fan Wire Electrical Box Wire
Black Black or Red
White White
Green or Bare Copper Bare Copper

Once the wires are connected, you can secure the ceiling fan to the electrical box by tightening the mounting screws. Finally, turn on the power to the circuit and test the fan to make sure it’s working properly.

Mounting the Fan Base

1. Prepare the Electrical Components

Gather the necessary electrical components, including the ceiling fan, fan base, electrical wires, and wire nuts. Ensure the electrical circuit is turned off at the breaker panel.

2. Position the Fan Base

Align the fan base on the ceiling electrical box. Insert the mounting screws through the holes in the fan base and tighten them into the electrical box.

3. Connect the Electrical Wires

Carefully remove approximately 6 inches of the outer insulation from each of the three electrical wires (black, white, green or bare copper).
Twist the exposed strands of the black wires together.
Twist the exposed strands of the white wires together.
Twist the exposed strands of the green or bare copper wires together (this is the ground wire).
Connect the black wires from the fan base to the black wire from the ceiling electrical box using a wire nut. Do the same for the white and green wires. Ensure the connections are tight and secure.

Color Function
Black Hot wire (supplies power to the fan)
White Neutral wire (completes the circuit)
Green or Bare Copper Ground wire (protects against electrical shocks)

Connecting the Wires

After you’ve assembled the fan and mounted it to the ceiling, it’s time to connect the wires. This is a fairly straightforward process, but it’s important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid any electrical hazards.

First, you’ll need to identify the wires coming from the ceiling. There will be three wires: a black wire, a white wire, and a ground wire (usually green or copper). The black wire is the hot wire, the white wire is the neutral wire, and the ground wire is the safety wire.

Next, you’ll need to identify the wires coming from the fan. There will also be three wires: a black wire, a white wire, and a ground wire. The black wire from the fan should be connected to the black wire from the ceiling, the white wire from the fan should be connected to the white wire from the ceiling, and the ground wire from the fan should be connected to the ground wire from the ceiling.

Once you’ve connected the wires, you can turn on the power and test the fan. If the fan doesn’t turn on, check to make sure that the wires are connected correctly. If the fan is still not working, you may need to call an electrician.

Connecting the Wires (Detailed)

Here are the steps for connecting the wires in more detail:

  1. Identify the wires coming from the ceiling: black wire (hot), white wire (neutral), and ground wire (usually green or copper).
  2. Identify the wires coming from the fan: black wire, white wire, and ground wire.
  3. Connect the black wire from the fan to the black wire from the ceiling.
  4. Connect the white wire from the fan to the white wire from the ceiling.
  5. Connect the ground wire from the fan to the ground wire from the ceiling.
  6. Turn on the power and test the fan.

If you’re not comfortable connecting the wires yourself, you can always call an electrician. However, it’s a relatively simple process that you can do yourself with a little bit of care.

Installing the Light Fixture

Step 1: Gather Materials. You will need the following materials: light fixture, wire nuts, electrical tape, screwdriver, ladder or step stool, and a voltage tester.

Step 2: Shut Off Power. Locate the circuit breaker that controls the ceiling fan and light. Turn it off to prevent electrical shock.

Step 3: Identify Wires. Inside the electrical box, there should be three wires: black, white, and green or bare copper. The black wire is the hot wire, the white wire is the neutral wire, and the green or bare copper wire is the ground wire.

Step 4: Connect Wires. Connect the black wire from the light fixture to the black wire from the ceiling box. Connect the white wire from the light fixture to the white wire from the ceiling box. Twist the exposed ends of the wires together and secure them with wire nuts. Wrap electrical tape around the wire nuts for extra security.

Step 5: Ground the Fixture. Connect the green or bare copper wire from the light fixture to the green or bare copper wire from the ceiling box. This wire provides a path for electrical current to flow to the ground in the event of a short circuit, preventing serious injury or fire.

Tip Explanation
Use a wire stripper to remove about 1/2 inch of insulation from the ends of the wires before connecting them. This will ensure a good electrical connection.
Tighten the wire nuts firmly with your fingers. Loose wire nuts can cause electrical problems.
After connecting all the wires, use a voltage tester to ensure that there is no live electricity present. This will prevent electrical shock.

Wiring the Light Fixture

Once the ceiling fan has been installed, you can now wire the light fixture. The light fixture will typically come with a set of instructions that you should follow. However, here is a general overview of the steps involved:

  1. Turn off the power to the circuit that will be powering the light fixture.
  2. Connect the black wire from the light fixture to the black wire from the ceiling.
  3. Connect the white wire from the light fixture to the white wire from the ceiling.
  4. Connect the ground wire from the light fixture to the green or bare copper wire from the ceiling.
  5. If your light fixture has a separate ground wire for the light bulbs, connect it to the green or bare copper wire from the light fixture.
  6. Secure the light fixture to the ceiling fan using the screws that came with the light fixture.
  7. Turn on the power to the circuit and test the light fixture.
Wire Color Connection
Black Hot
White Neutral
Green or Bare Copper Ground

Once you have wired the light fixture, you can now enjoy the added light and style that it provides to your room.

Testing the Fan and Light

Once you have completed the wiring, it’s time to test the fan and light to ensure they are working properly.

1. Turn On the Power

Flip the circuit breaker or fuse that supplies power to the fan and light back on.

2. Check the Fan Switch

Turn the fan switch on. The fan should start spinning and the light should turn on.

3. Test the Light Switch

Turn the light switch on and off to ensure the light operates as expected.

4. Check the Fan Speed

Adjust the fan speed control to different settings to ensure the fan is operating at the desired speed.

5. Check for Noise or Vibration

Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations that may indicate a problem with the fan or light.

6. Check for Overheating

Feel the motor housing of the fan and the light fixture after a few minutes of operation. They should not be noticeably hot.

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter any problems with the fan or light, refer to the table below for troubleshooting tips:

Problem Possible Cause Solution
Fan not spinning Loose connections, faulty switch, or motor problem Check connections, replace switch, or call an electrician
Light not turning on Loose connections, faulty bulb, or light fixture problem Check connections, replace bulb, or call an electrician
Excessive noise or vibration Loose fan blades or mount, unbalanced motor Tighten fan blades, remount fan, or call an electrician
Fan or light overheating Wiring problems, faulty components, or obstructed airflow Call an electrician to investigate

Troubleshooting Common Issues

The fan is not turning on

1. Check if the power is turned on at the circuit breaker or fuse box.

2. Check if the fan remote is working properly.

3. Check if the fan blades are obstructed by anything.

4. Check if the fan motor is damaged.

The fan is wobbling

1. Check if the fan blades are balanced.

2. Check if the fan is mounted securely to the ceiling.

3. Check if the ceiling fan downrod is the correct length.

4. Check if the fan canopy is loose.

The fan is making noise

1. Check if the fan blades are hitting the light kit.

2. Check if the fan motor is lubricated.

3. Check if the fan blades are bent or damaged.

4. Check if the fan is mounted securely to the ceiling.

The light is not turning on

1. Check if the light bulbs are burned out.

2. Check if the light switch is turned on.

3. Check if the light fixture is damaged.

4. Check if the fan remote is working properly.

Maintenance and Repairs

Ceiling fans require regular maintenance and repairs to ensure optimal performance and safety. Here are some common maintenance and repair tasks:

Cleaning:

Clean the fan blades, motor, and housing regularly to remove dust and debris that can accumulate and cause the fan to wobble or operate noisily.

Lubricating:

Periodically lubricate the fan’s motor bearings to reduce friction and extend its lifespan. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended lubrication type and frequency.

Troubleshooting:

Address common issues such as:

Issue Cause Solution
Fan won’t start Power outage, loose connections, faulty motor Check power, tighten connections, replace motor if necessary
Fan wobbles Imbalanced blades, loose screws, bent shaft Balance blades, tighten screws, inspect shaft for damage
Fan hums Friction in bearings, damaged blades Lubricate bearings, replace damaged blades
Light flickering Loose connections, faulty bulb, worn-out ballast Check connections, replace bulb, inspect ballast

Safety Precautions:

Always turn off the power before performing any maintenance or repairs on your ceiling fan. Ensure that the fan is securely mounted to prevent accidents.

Additional Tips

1. Double Check Your Connections

Before you turn on the power, double check all of your connections to make sure they are secure. Loose connections can cause arcing and electrical fires.

2. Use Electrical Tape

Use electrical tape to insulate any exposed wires. This will help to prevent electrical shocks and fires.

3. Secure the Ceiling Fan

Make sure the ceiling fan is securely mounted to the ceiling. A loose fan can fall and cause serious injuries.

4. Use a Level

Use a level to make sure the ceiling fan is level. An uneven fan can wobble and make noise.

5. Balance the Ceiling Fan

Some ceiling fans come with a balancing kit. If your fan wobbles, use the balancing kit to balance the fan.

6. Lubricate the Ceiling Fan

Ceiling fans should be lubricated every few years. This will help to keep the fan running smoothly and quietly.

7. Clean the Ceiling Fan

Ceiling fans should be cleaned regularly to remove dust and dirt. This will help to keep the fan looking its best and running efficiently.

8. Turn Off the Power Before Working on the Ceiling Fan

Always turn off the power before working on the ceiling fan. This will help to prevent electrical shocks and injuries.

9. Use a Voltage Tester

Use a voltage tester to make sure the power is off before working on the ceiling fan. This will help to ensure your safety.

10. Hire a Licensed Electrician

If you are not comfortable wiring a ceiling fan yourself, hire a licensed electrician to do it for you. This will ensure that the fan is installed safely and correctly.

How to Wire a Ceiling Fan with Light

Installing a ceiling fan with light involves several steps to ensure proper functionality and safety. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Prepare the Equipment: Gather the necessary tools and materials, including wire cutters, strippers, a drill, electrical tape, and the fan.
  2. Turn Off Power: Turn off the power supply to the ceiling box at the circuit breaker panel. Verify that the power is off using a voltage tester.
  3. Mount the Mounting Bracket: Install the ceiling fan’s mounting bracket onto the electrical box in the ceiling. Secure it with the provided screws.
  4. Connect the Fan Wires: Most fans have color-coded wires. Connect the black wire from the fan to the black wire from the house, the white wire from the fan to the white wire from the house, and the ground wire (usually green or bare copper) to the ground wire from the house. Use wire nuts to secure the connections.
  5. Connect the Light Wires: Connect the fan’s black wire (light) to the black wire from the house and the white wire from the fan (light) to the white wire from the house. Again, use wire nuts to secure the connections.
  6. Mount the Fan: Lift the fan onto the mounting bracket and secure it with the provided screws.
  7. Install the Light Kit: Install the light kit according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Connect the light wires as described above.
  8. Restore Power: Turn the power back on at the circuit breaker panel.
  9. Test the Fan and Light: Pull the fan’s chains or use the remote control to turn on the fan and light. Ensure they are working properly.

People Also Ask

What wire is hot on a ceiling fan?

The black wire is typically used for hot power wires, both for the fan motor and the light connection.

How do you wire a ceiling fan with light and two black wires?

If there are two black wires, one is for the fan motor and the other for the light. Identify the wires using a multimeter or consult the fan’s wiring diagram.

What is the white wire for on a ceiling fan?

The white wire is typically used for neutral wires, both for the fan motor and the light connection.

Can you connect ceiling fan directly to power?

No, a ceiling fan should not be directly connected to power. It must be connected to a properly grounded electrical outlet or power source.