Yes — it absolutely matters which wire goes where on a light fixture. Hot (typically black), neutral (white), and ground (green or bare copper) must each connect to their corresponding wire from the home’s wiring. Reversed connections can cause shock, fire, fixture damage, or improper switching. Switch loop wiring adds complications too.

Wiring basics

  • Black (hot) — Connects to fixture’s black or brass-screw wire
  • White (neutral) — Connects to fixture’s white or silver-screw wire
  • Green or bare (ground) — Connects to green ground screw
  • Switch loops and three-way switches add complications
  • Newer code requires neutrals at every switch

Hire a licensed electrician for any fixture work. We install through our lighting service.