Cut Underground wire?

2316 Views 4 Replies 2 Participants Last post by neamb2, May 7, 2011

neamb2

Discussion Starter · May 6, 2011

There is a cable that runs from the house to the front lawn, and was probably used for a light post at some point. I've traced it as far as possible, but it disappears underground at a depth of over 6 inches and I'm not able to continue looking for the cable end. There is a switch that does not appear to control anything inside by the front door, which MAY control this wire.

To confirm this before disconnecting and capping wires at the switch, I'd like to make a small cut (power off) in the section of the wire I can access and check for power with my multimeter (power back on), while flipping the switch on and off.

Is this feasible and safe? Easier way? Thanks in advance from a cautious newbie.

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neamb2

Discussion Starter · #3 · May 7, 2011

Thanks, good idea. The detector shows no voltage, with switch on or off. Is it safe to conclude the switch does not control the cable? Or could it be that the cable has been disconnected already by the previous owner from whatever switch used to control it? Thanks...

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neamb2

Discussion Starter · #5 · May 7, 2011

Well, the switch is one of three in one box. There are 5 cables coming in/going out, in a really tight space. There are several wires attached to the switch in question, and I don't see any capped off. I will defer to my electrician who will be coming next week to deal with another item. But thanks for your help!

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