How to Wire an Electrical Outlet in Series

How To Wire An Electrical Outlet In Series

As a homeowner in zip code 02906, East Providence, Rhode Island, it’s important to be knowledgeable about basic electrical repairs and maintenance. While it’s always best to hire a professional, like B&K Electric, for more complex electrical work, there are some simple tasks that you can handle on your own. Wiring an electrical outlet in series is one of them.

B&K Electric is a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, that has been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. We specialize in electrical repair, electrical panel maintenance, and installation, making us the go-to electrician for households and businesses in the Warwick and greater Providence area.

Whether you’re looking to update your electrical system or simply need to replace an old outlet, wiring in series is a simple yet essential technique that you should know. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of wiring an electrical outlet in series, from gathering the necessary materials to safely completing the task.

First Things First: Understanding Electrical Outlets

Before we dive into the specifics of wiring an electrical outlet in series, it’s important to have a basic understanding of electrical outlets. They are the most commonly used type of electrical plug, and they provide a connection point for electrical devices to receive power. Outlets consist of three main parts: the outlet faceplate, the wiring terminals, and the plug slots.

The outlet faceplate is the visible part of the outlet where the plug of the electrical device is inserted. It is usually anchored to the wall with screws, and depending on the style, it can be round or square, in white, black, or any other color to complement the decor.

The wiring terminals are the parts of the outlet where the electrical wires are attached. They are responsible for carrying the electrical current from the wiring in your walls to the electrical device that is plugged into the outlet.

The plug slots are the holes in the outlet faceplate where the prongs of the electrical device’s plug are inserted. They come in different shapes and sizes, depending on the type of outlet and the voltage of the current it carries.

Wiring in Series: What Does it Mean?

Wiring in series means connecting electrical devices one after the other. In other words, the current flows from one device to the next in sequence until it reaches the end of the series. In a household setting, this means that all the devices, such as light switches or outlets, are wired on the same circuit, and when one device stops working, it can break the entire circuit.

Why Wire in Series?

You may wonder why anyone would choose to wire outlets in series instead of parallel. While parallel wiring is the more common method used in households, there are situations where wiring in series is necessary.

For instance, in older homes, outlets are often wired in series because it requires fewer wires and materials. Additionally, if the outlet in question is not used as frequently, it may be more cost-effective to wire in series to reduce materials and installation time. Professional electricians, like B&K Electric, will be able to advise you on the best method for your specific situation.

Materials You Will Need:

– A screwdriver (flathead or Phillips, depending on the outlet)

– A voltage tester

– New outlets with wiring terminals

– Electrical wires (make sure they match the color and gauge of your existing wiring)

– Wire cutters and strippers

– Electrical tapes (insulation and non-conductive)

– Wire connectors (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide to Wiring an Electrical Outlet in Series:

Step 1: Prepare the Work Area and Shut Off the Power

Before starting any electrical project, make sure to turn off the power to the outlet that you will be working on. This can be done by switching off the corresponding switch on the circuit breaker panel. If you’re unsure which switch controls the power to the outlet, use a voltage tester to check.

Then, clear the area around the outlet and cover it with a towel or cloth to protect the floor or wall from any debris.

Step 2: Remove the Old Outlet

Using a screwdriver, remove the screws from the outlet’s faceplate and gently pull it out of the wall. Next, unscrew the outlet from the wall and disconnect the wires from the wiring terminals. Keep in mind the location of each wire, as you will need to reconnect them later.

Step 3: Prepare the New Outlet and Wires

If the new outlet does not come with attached wiring, use wire cutters and strippers to cut the wires to the desired length. Then, strip the ends of the wires to expose a small amount of copper. Make sure to use the appropriate wire gauge for your electrical system.

If you choose to use wire connectors, now is the time to attach them to the stripped ends of the wires.

Step 4: Connect the Wires to the Outlet

Starting with the black wire, insert it into the brass or gold-colored wiring terminal. If necessary, use a screwdriver to tighten the terminal around the wire. Repeat this process for the white wire, inserting it into the silver-colored terminal and the green or bare wire into the green-colored terminal. Make sure all the wires are securely connected without any exposed copper.

Step 5: Install the Outlet

Gently push the outlet into the wall opening, making sure that the wiring terminals are facing in the correct direction. Use screws to secure the outlet to the wall and then attach the faceplate.

Step 6: Test the Outlet and Restore Power

Once the outlet is installed, use a voltage tester to check if there is power running through it. If it’s working correctly, restore power to the circuit by switching on the corresponding switch on the circuit breaker panel.

Topics:

Electrical Wiring,

Electrical Outlets,

and Home Repair.