How to Connect a Chandelier with a Domino? An Easy and Secure Guide

Understanding the role of the domino in the electrical connection

What is an electric domino?

An electrical terminal block is a connecting device used to safely connect electrical wires. It consists of metal terminals, insulated by a plastic casing.

This device is essential for connecting a chandelier to the electrical circuit, especially when the wires come directly from the ceiling. By complying with standards, a terminal block guarantees a reliable and durable connection.

Why use a domino to connect a chandelier?

The electrical terminal block is a simple and effective solution for connecting a chandelier to the ceiling, whether it's an old or modern model. This connection system allows you to connect the live, neutral, and, if necessary, ground wires. Its installation is easy, provided you follow the necessary steps to avoid any risks.

Prepare the equipment and secure the installation

List of necessary materials

To successfully install, you will need:

An electrical terminal block adapted to the wire section.
A wire stripper to prepare the wires.
A screwdriver to tighten the domino screws.
A voltage tester to check for the absence of current.
Ceiling chandelier mounting accessories (hook, cover, etc.).

Step 1: Turn off the power

Before you begin, turn off the power at the electrical panel by turning off the main circuit breaker. Use a voltage tester to ensure the power is off to the ceiling wires. This step ensures a safe installation and eliminates any risk of electrocution.

Step 2: Identify the wires

Electrical wires are distinguished by their color:

Blue: neutral wire.
Brown or red: phase wire.
Green and yellow: ground wire (if available).

If the wires are not colored, use a tester to identify them. If in doubt, call a professional electrician.

Detailed steps to connect a chandelier with a domino

Step 1: Prepare the wires

Strip the wires using the wire stripper about 8 to 10 mm.
If the wires are flexible, twist them to make them easier to insert into the domino.
Check that the wires are in good condition to avoid bad connections

Step 2: Insert the wires into the terminal block

Insert each electrical wire into a separate terminal on the terminal block:

The blue wire in the neutral terminal.
The brown or red wire in the phase terminal.
The green and yellow (ground) wire in the corresponding terminal, if present.
Tighten the terminal screws firmly to hold the wires in place.

Step 3: Attach the chandelier to the ceiling

Hang the chandelier from a hook or use a mounting system suitable for the weight of the light fixture.
If necessary, adjust the cables so that they are taut, without risk of pulling on the electrical terminal block.

Step 4: Check and test

Restore power at the electrical panel.
Turn on the chandelier to check that the connection is correct.
If the chandelier does not work, turn off the power again and check the connections.

Practical tips for a successful installation

Avoiding common mistakes:

Do not leave any bare wire protruding from the terminals of the terminal block.
If a wire is not used, insulate it with a cap.
Make sure the terminal block screws are tight to avoid loose connections.

Choosing the right domino

Use a terminal block that matches the wire cross-section and the type of chandelier. For heavy chandeliers, make sure the mounting system is strong enough.

Maintain aesthetics

Cover the domino and wires with a decorative cap or rosette. This ensures a clean and harmonious installation with the room's decor.

Alternatives to dominoes for connecting a chandelier

Use modern connectors

Wago connectors are a fast and secure alternative to terminal blocks. Their lever mechanism makes them particularly suitable for modern electrical installations.

Call a professional

If you have any doubts or if the connection seems complex, it is advisable to call an electrician. This ensures a properly installed system that complies with regulations and is free from the risk of electrocution.

How to avoid a short circuit?

Make sure the wires are properly insulated in the terminal block and that the connections are secure. Use a tester to check before restoring power.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the steps for connecting a chandelier with a domino?

To connect a chandelier with a terminal block, start by turning off the power at the electrical panel. Strip the wires by 8 to 10 mm and identify the colors: blue for neutral, brown or red for live, and green/yellow for ground.

Insert the wires into the corresponding terminals on the terminal block, then tighten the screws for a secure connection. Then secure the chandelier to the ceiling, ensuring the wires are properly positioned. Finally, restore power and test the installation.

2. What type of connector should I use to connect a chandelier?

The choice of terminal block depends on the wire cross-section and the required electrical current. A standard terminal block (plastic with metal terminals) is suitable for most domestic chandeliers.

If you're wiring a heavy chandelier or complex light fixture, opt for a heat-resistant terminal block or modern connectors like Wago for faster installation.

3. Can you connect a chandelier with a terminal block without a ground wire?

Yes, if your chandelier has double insulation (indicated by a square symbol within a square). In this case, the ground wire is not required. However, for standard chandeliers, the green/yellow wire must be connected to the terminal block for optimal safety.

4. How to identify wires for a terminal block connection?

Electrical wires are usually color coded:

Blue: neutral.
Brown or red: phase.
Green/yellow: ground. Use a voltage tester to confirm their function if the colors are not correct. If in doubt, call a professional electrician.

5. Is it safe to use a domino for a heavy chandelier?

Yes, provided you respect the wire cross-section and check that the terminal block is properly tightened. Also, make sure the chandelier is attached to a hook in the ceiling, and not suspended solely by the wires. This ensures maximum safety and prevents any risk of falling.

6. How to avoid mistakes when connecting with a domino?

Tighten the terminal screws firmly to avoid false contacts.
Use a tester before restoring power to check the connections.
If a wire is not used, insulate it with a cap.

7. What if my ceiling has only two wires and my chandelier has three?

In this case, connect only the live and neutral wires to the terminal block. Leave the ground wire insulated if your chandelier is double insulated. If it isn't, check with an electrician to adapt your electrical installation.

8. Can you connect several lamps with a terminal block?

Yes, you can connect multiple lights using a terminal block, as long as you respect the maximum wattage of your electrical circuit. Insert the wires from each light into the corresponding terminals on the terminal block. Make sure the connections are secure and the wires do not cross.

9. Should you always use a domino to connect a chandelier?

A domino is a classic and economical option for electrical connections. However, alternatives like Wago connectors offer faster and more secure installation. For a modern chandelier, it is recommended to check if the DCL box is compatible.