How to Install an Outlet in a Switch Box
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Adding an Outlet in a Switch Box Requires Understanding and Identifying Electrical Wiring |
Understanding and Identifying Electrical Wiring
[ad#block]Electrical Question: I have a former bathroom I am converting to a closet.
- I have a switch that operates the wall light and the ceiling light.
- I have another switch that operates only the fan.
- I want to put a new light fixture on the ceiling and make the other switch an outlet.
- I can take the fan switch and hook up the new light to it because that switch only powers one thing.
- How do I safely eliminate the wall light and the fan while creating a new outlet next to the switch?
This electrical question came from: Mike, from Sevierville, Tennessee
See more about Home Wiring for Tennessee
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Mike
Adding an Outlet in a Switch Box
Understanding and Identifying Electrical Wiring
- A typical bathroom may have two electrical circuits, one for the GFI outlet and one for the light fixture.
- The circuit wiring must be identified in order to make the right connections when adding an outlet in the switch box.
- Receptacle outlets require a hot, neutral and a ground wire from one circuit, the wiring may not be connected or shared between two separate circuits.
- Identifying the circuit wiring is done using a voltage tester and fully understanding the electrical wiring of the bathroom.
- Projects such as this are best performed by a licensed electrical contractor in you area.
RESOURCES
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 wiring electrical outlets for the home are done.
Wiring a Light Switch – Diagram 1
Fully Explained Light Switch Wiring Diagrams. Detailed Electrical Wiring Diagrams and Pictures assist your Home Electrical Projects.
- In situations like this a “white wire” may not be used ans a neutral wire, but it might actually be used for switching the hot side of the circuit.
- The key is to identify the circuit wiring and understand what each wire is used for in order to achieve the correct wiring configuration.
- If you do not have an understanding of electrical circuit wiring and practical experience of wiring a home then this may be very difficult to understand and it is always best to locale a licensed electrical contractor how can make the required voltage tests and make the electrical wiring connections to get your light fixture working properly.
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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
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