How Is A Switched Wall Outlet Wired?

Wiring a Switched Outlet – When wiring a switched outlet care must be taken to identify the individual wires in order to make the right electrical connections.

Switched Outlet Wiring Diagram Shows How
Electrical Question: I spliced into an existing outlet to add a new light fixture to the wall above it.
The new light works, as does the outlet and all those that follow.
The problem is that the outlet was “switched” and now the outlet is hot all the time, The switch does not work.
Is there a way to get the switch working again? I would love a diagram for this.
If I cannot do this, it is OK the way it is where I just have a switch that does nothing, only that bugs me a little.

Additional Comments: Great site for the basics!!
Background: Barbara, a Homeowner from Spokane, WA

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Barbara.

Wiring a Switched Outlet
When wiring a switched outlet care must be taken to identify the individual wires in order to make the right electrical connections.
The switched outlet wiring diagram link below provides a fully illustrated diagram with photos.

The Following Resources will assist you to Wire a Switched Outlet
Switched Outlet Wiring Diagrams

For more information about Wiring Diagram
Wiring Diagrams

Electrical Outlet Wiring

Wiring Electrical Outlets for the Home

Home electrical wiring includes 110 volt outlets and 220 volt outlets and receptacles which are common place in every home. See how the electrical outlets for the home are wired.

» You Can Avoid Costly Mistakes! «

Here's How to Do It:
Wire It Right with the help of my Illustrated Wiring Book
Great for any Home Wiring Project.

Complete Guide to Home Electrical Wiring

Perfect for Homeowners, Students,
Handyman, Handywomen, and Electricians
Includes:
Wiring GFCI Outlets
Wiring Home Electric Circuits
120 Volt and 240 Volt Outlet Circuits
Wiring Light Switches
Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Electric Range
Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Dryer Cord and Dryer Outlet
How to Troubleshoot and Repair Electrical Wiring
Wiring Methods for Upgrading Electrical Wiring
NEC Codes for Home Electrical Wiring
....and much more.

Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.

Electrical Wiring Tips

Electrical Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Helping You Wire it Right

More articles about Electrical Wiring, Switch Diagrams and Home Electrical Wiring:
« Previous	Next »
Testing an Electric Motor Circuit	Adding New Lights to 3-Way Switches

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Home Electrical Wiring and Electrical Repairs

Please Note:
Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects:

Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor.

Electrical 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.

Stay Connected