Why Did My Wire Burn When I Turned On the Switch?

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A wire connected from a MAIN BUS BAR to a switch burnt immediately when turned on, while another wire from the switch to the BUS BAR needing power burnt slowly. The user suspects that the wiring may have been reversed, causing the hot wire to connect incorrectly and create resistance, leading to overheating. The discussion emphasizes the potential danger of this situation and advises seeking professional help. An electrician is recommended for safety reasons, as remote troubleshooting is insufficient. Immediate action is necessary to prevent further hazards.
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MAIN BUS BAR wire to SWITCH burnt when switched ON and the other end of switch wire to the BUS BAR needing power slowly burnt.
Hello,

I am wondering why a wire that was connected from a MAIN BUS BAR to the top side of a switch and when turned ON burnt immediately and the wire connected from the bottom side of the switch to the BUS BAR needing power slowly burnt.

I'm thinking the wiring was reversed- Correct me but I think that the hot wire was connected to the side of the switch where power was supposed to go out and that causes the wire to heat up and it somehow bypassed the switch and was now feeding power on the other end of the switch and was slowly cooking the wire because there was resistance. Thank you!
 
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exp6 said:
Summary:: MAIN BUS BAR wire to SWITCH burnt when switched ON and the other end of switch wire to the BUS BAR needing power slowly burnt.

Hello,

I am wondering why a wire that was connected from a MAIN BUS BAR to the top side of a switch and when turned ON burnt immediately and the wire connected from the bottom side of the switch to the BUS BAR needing power slowly burnt.

I'm thinking the wiring was reversed- Correct me but I think that the hot wire was connected to the side of the switch where power was supposed to go out and that causes the wire to heat up and it somehow bypassed the switch and was now feeding power on the other end of the switch and was slowly cooking the wire because there was resistance. Thank you!
Yikes! Please call an electrician right away. There is no way we can help you figure this out remotely. Thread is closed.
 
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