I have made two seperate attempts at replacing a broken exit sign, both of which ended up with the bulbs exploding when the breaker was turned back on. I can verify that I have not wired it backwards and that it is grounded (I think). What could make it explode? Could the voltage be different? The exit sign(s) I bought were 110, I just assumed that it was standard.
The lines coming out of the ceiling are orange and white, as opposed to black and white, if that makes a difference.
Uh, yes, check the voltage. The hot wire shouldn't be orange (unless it's the high leg of a center-tapped three phase line, or someone didn't wire the place to code).
Edit: Don't start a fire and/or hurt yourself, please.
This is in a commercial building? There is some possibility of it being a different voltage for sure. It could be 250v or even 277v. What happened to the old sign? It would probably indicate what voltage was being used. Otherwise, you will need a voltage tester or a licensed electrician.
Sounds like youve hooked into the 220/240 main instead of the 110 lines. Mebbe use a voltmeter? Color codes are just a guide, the reality is in an older building it doesn't mean jack. Some guy could have made a patch with whatever he found nearby.
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I read them, honest! Of course that doesn't mean I know what I am doing. Stupid broad job description...
Tell my boss that. Please.
Edit: Don't start a fire and/or hurt yourself, please.
um, tell him it's against the law to do it otherwise, and that you'll report him if he doesn't.
Apparently, I am lucky that all it did was blow up the bulbs.
Not much else I can do. Call a pro it is.
Lock away, if need be.