By Dave Rongey Summary:
Electrical Outlets Question: I'm trying to wire a switched outlet. The problem is in the switch box where there is one set of wires which are black, white, ground, and another set that also has a red wire. The same setup is on the outlet. I am trying to get the switch to control just the top plug, and have the bottom plug hot all the time.
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Electrical Outlets Question:
I'm trying to wire a switched outlet. The problem is in the switch box where there is one set of wires which are black, white, ground, and another set that also has a red wire.
The same setup is on the outlet. I am trying to get the switch to control just the top plug, and have the bottom plug hot all the time.
I am lost and any help would be apprectiated.
Steve M.
Hi Steve - Great Electrical Repair Question! This is a typical half-hot plug.
Please see the Wiring Diagram #1 on this page: Disposal Wiring Diagram
The black or hot wire coming in splices through for the hot to the outlet but also supplies power to the switch.
The red wire is attached to the switch and feeds down to the outlet.
You'll have a split outlet where the tab is broken on the outlet.
The top (black) is hot all the time, the bottom (red) is controlled by the switch.
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The Non-Contact Electrical Tester
This is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.
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The Plug-In Outlet Tester
This is the first tool I grab to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring. This popular tester is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring.
It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets
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Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
Tools Required:
Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter.
Estimated Time:
Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area. Precaution:
Identify the project circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
Important:
Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and national electrical codes with a permit and be inspected.
This is a testing tool that is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.
This is great to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring, is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring.
It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets
Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency
Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included
Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect, Very handy and easy to use.
A wire stripping tool used to safely strip electrical wires.
This handy tool has multiple uses:
The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation.
The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets.
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