Wiring an Outlet from a Light Switch: A Homeowner’s Guide in RI

How To Wire An Outlet From A Light Switch

If you live in the 02904 zip code in North Providence, Rhode Island, and are looking for an experienced and reliable electrician to handle your residential electrical needs, look no further than B&K Electric. Our family-owned and operated business has been serving the communities of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years, specializing in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation. With our strong commitment to both our customers and the community, we take pride in being the go-to electrician for homeowners and businesses in the Warwick area and the greater Providence area.

One common request we often receive from homeowners is how to wire an outlet from a light switch. This may seem like a daunting task for those who are not well-versed in electrical work, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be a simple and cost-effective solution. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of wiring an outlet from a light switch, providing valuable insights and tips along the way.

Materials Needed:

– Power drill

– Drywall saw

– Straight-slot screwdriver

– Wire strippers

– Pliers

– Electrical tape

– 14/2 nonmetallic (NM) electrical cable

– Electrical box

– Outlet

– Light switch

– Wire nuts

– Mounting screws

– Grounding screws

– Wire connectors

– Voltage tester

Step 1: Turn Off the Power

Safety should always be the top priority when working with any electrical project. Before beginning any work, make sure to turn off the power to the room where the light switch and outlet are located. This can be done by flipping the circuit breaker or removing the corresponding fuse from the electrical panel. To ensure that the power is off, use a voltage tester to test the wires and confirm that there is no existing electrical current.

Step 2: Plan the Wiring Route

Once the power is turned off, you can begin planning the route for the electrical wiring. Before cutting into any walls, it is important to map out the path that the wire will need to take. This will help prevent any unnecessary drilling or cutting and ensure that the wiring is running smoothly.

Step 3: Install the Electrical Box

Next, install the electrical box for the new outlet. Determine the location of the box by marking it with a pencil on the wall. Using a power drill, cut a hole in the wall where the box will be installed. Make sure the hole is the appropriate size for your electrical box.

Step 4: Run the NM Cable

Using a power drill, create a small hole in the base of the wall where the light switch is located. This hole will act as a guide for running the NM cable from the light switch to the new outlet. Carefully feed the cable through the hole, using your hand or a fishing tape to push it through to the outlet location.

Step 5: Connect the Cable at the Light Switch

Carefully strip the outer sheath of the NM cable at the light switch location. Next, strip about 3/4 inch of insulation from the individual wires inside the cable. Connect the black wire (hot) to one of the brass screws on the light switch, and the white wire (neutral) to the silver screw on the light switch. Finally, connect the bare copper wire (ground) to the green screw on the light switch. Secure the connections with wire nuts.

Step 6: Connect the Cable at the Outlet

At the outlet location, strip the outer sheath of the NM cable and the individual wires inside, just as you did at the light switch location. Connect the black wire to the brass screw on the outlet, the white wire to the silver screw, and the bare copper wire to the green grounding screw. Secure the connections with wire nuts.

Step 7: Make Adjustments and Reinstall the Light Switch and Outlet

At this point, you can reinstall the light switch and outlet into their electrical boxes. If necessary, make any final adjustments to the wiring to ensure that everything is securely connected and in the proper place. Use the mounting screws to secure the devices into place.

Step 8: Turn the Power Back On and Test the Outlet

After reassembling the light switch and outlet, turn the power back on. Use a voltage tester to ensure that the wires are receiving power. Once you have confirmed that the power is working, test the outlet to make sure it is functioning properly.

Congratulations, you have successfully wired an outlet from a light switch! With a little bit of knowledge and the right tools, this project is not as challenging as it may seem. Of course, if you have any doubts or concerns, do not hesitate to contact a professional electrician for assistance.

Topics:

How to Wire an Outlet,

Electrical Wiring,

Residential Electrician