If you don’t know the difference between shunted sockets and non-shunted sockets, chances are you’re not an electrician, nor have you done any DIY electrical projects (which is usually a bad idea anyway.)
What are shunted sockets?
First, they have two holes in the unit while non-shunted have four. Other than that, both types look exactly the same. The only true way to tell what type of socket you have is with a voltage meter. You need to set it to the ‘continuity’ setting. A shunted sockets will have power flowing between the connectors, while the non-shunted will not.
Why is this knowledge important? Because when you install your lighting, it could prove to be a safety hazard if the wrong socket is used. A short will cause the socket to blacken, and could shorten the life of the LED lighting.
If you have read the installation manual and you still don’t understand how to install your lighting, then perhaps an electrical DIY project is not for you. It’s always a good idea to call a professional if you are unsure of how to do something. This applies to most things, not just electrical projects.
Getting DIY Education
If you are interested in learning more about electrical projects so you can save some money on hiring a professional, there are several resources you can access. Most large home improvement centers offer workshops on a variety of projects. Ask when their next workshop on electricity projects is and sign up. Many are free, but some may charge a fee, so be sure to ask.
Going Professional
If you’ve successfully completed some DIY projects and are interested in becoming a licensed electrician, there are several steps you need to take. First, know that this is a career that takes years to learn; however, it’s worth the effort. You need a high school diploma to start with. Next, you will need some technical training at a local college or technical school. Once you’ve had some training, you will have to get working – to train with a licensed professional. This is also called an apprenticeship. You will need to log a certain number of hours, and have intermittent class sessions for a period of at least one year, but the requirement varies from state to state. Once you’ve gained the necessary schooling and practical experience, you can write the final exam for your license.
