How to Connect Bare Copper Wire for a Bathroom Exhaust Fan?

23 June 2025 3 answers
Asked by HandyDandy94
Hey everyone, I'm in the process of replacing my bathroom exhaust fan, and I've come across some wiring confusion. The old fan used both green and bare copper wires connected with a wire nut. The setup involves a timer switch, which might be relevant. Now, I'm unsure what to do with the bare copper wire coming from the wall. I've attached pictures of the new wiring housing and instructions, but the diagram doesn't seem to align with what I have. Any tips? Thanks! My mother-in-law needs this fixed but can't afford a handyman!

Answers

CraftyCarl81
Just a heads up, green and bare wires serve the same purpose, so you're good on that front! Just connect them safely. If the instructions show them separate, maybe they mean to connect them to a common ground, but definitely twist them together for a secure connection.
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FixItFelix42
The bare copper wire is grounding, so you'll want to connect it with the two green wires using a wire nut. Just cut the push-in connector off the fixture ground, strip the end of it, and wire nut them all together! That should do the trick.
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BuilderBob88
Selling the house might seem extreme, but having a ground connected is essential for safety! Just make sure you follow proper grounding procedures. Safety first!
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