Wiring Switches and Outlets from a Power Source
 ';
|
Connecting Electrical Wiring for Switches and Outlets: The Most Common Method for Wiring Switches and Outlets from the Power Source. © By: Dave Rongey |
Guide to Wiring Switches and Outlets
Electrical Wiring Project: My living room power source goes to a switch box at one end of the room.
- I connected a 3way switch and then routed a 14/3 cable from this switch to a second 3way switch at other end of room. I then wired a 14/2 cable from the 2nd switch to top (isolated) half of all outlets in the room to provide switched power.
- I also routed a 14/2 from the power source in the box at the first switch to the bottom halves of each outlet to provide non-switched power.
- I now have a 14/2 switched coming from one side of the room, and a 14/2 non-switched coming from the other side of the room, at each outlet.
- Since the commons on both of these cables are connected directly to the source common in the first switch box, the circuits would work fine whether I keep the switched and non-switched commons separated at each outlet, or if I tie them together at each outlet box.
What is the common practice in this situation?
Thank you,
Wally
This electrical wiring question came from: Wally, from New Berlin, Wisconsin.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring project Wally.
How to Connect Electrical Wiring for Switches and Outlets
Preparation
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools and a Voltage Tester.
Estimated Time: Depends on the persons level experience, ability to work with tools and install electrical circuit wiring.
Precaution: Identify the panel circuit of the switch or outlet, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
Notice: Installing additional electrical wiring for switches and outlets should be done according to local and national electrical codes with a permit and be inspected.
The Most Common Method for Wiring Switches and Outlets from the Power Source
- Typically, I do not like to feed outlets from a switch box unless the outlet will be controlled by the switch.
- With all electrical circuit wiring, we need to plan our circuits and keep track of all the wiring, otherwise we can end up scratching our head trying to figure out what cable went where.
- My advise is to reserve the wiring in the switch boxes for switching and light fixtures.
- Many people get confused thinking that just because they see a white wire they think it is a neutral and they believe that they can extend the wiring to an outlet, and that is not always the case.
More about Wiring Switches and 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 wiring electrical outlets for the home are done.
3 Way Switch Diagram
In response to the requests for this information, I have developed a comprehensive,step-by-step guide designed to walk you through the identification and wiring of your 3-way switches.
Wiring a Light Switch – Diagram 1
Fully Explained Light Switch Wiring Diagrams. Detailed Electrical Wiring Diagrams and Pictures assist your Home Electrical Projects.
Electric Circuit Listing
The size of the home electrical service panel is designed by calculating the square footage of the home and factoring in the code requirements for the electrical circuits that are required.
Electrical Wires and Cables
Electrical Wire for the Home
Complete listing of electrical wire types and parts used for home projects with electrical code information serves as selection guidelines.
Electrical Wiring Junction Boxes
Electrical Junction Boxes for Home Wiring
Understanding electrical junction boxes and what they are used for. Home electrical wiring is the process of installing electrical wire to a location that will serve electrical devices or an appliance. One very important component is the box where the wire will be installed. The type and size of the home wiring electrical boxes will depend upon the circuit size, application and its location.
The following may also be helpful for you:
|
|
Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
More articles about Electrical Wiring and Home Electrical Wiring: |
|
| « Previous | Next » |
How To Make an Electrical Splice |
Replacing a Circuit Breaker – What Size Should Be Used |
