Create Non-Controlled Outlets: Homeowner’s Guide, Cranston RI

How To Make Outlet Not Controlled By Switch

Have you ever wished that your outlets weren’t controlled by a light switch? Perhaps you have experienced the frustration of accidentally turning off a power source and having to navigate in the dark to find the switch to turn it back on. Or, maybe you simply want more control over which outlets are on or off at any given time. Whatever your reason may be, the good news is that it is possible to make your outlets not controlled by a switch. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to achieve this in your home. Whether you are located in zip code 02910 Cranston, Providence, Rhode Island or anywhere else in the United States, this article will provide valuable insights for homeowners in the residential industry.

As a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, B&K Electric has been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. We are dedicated to providing top-quality service and are committed to ensuring our customers’ satisfaction. Our expert electricians specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, making us the go-to choice for any electrical needs in the Warwick area and the greater Providence area. Now, let’s dive into how you can make your outlets not controlled by a switch in your home.

Evaluate Your Current Setup

Before making any changes, it is important to take a close look at your current setup and determine how your outlets are currently connected to your light switches. In most cases, outlets controlled by a switch are wired in a way that the top outlet is always on and the bottom outlet is controlled by the switch. This setup is usually done to provide an option for connecting a lamp or any other device that needs to be turned on and off using a light switch.

Prepare for the Change

Once you have determined which outlets are controlled by a switch in your home, it is time to prepare for the changes. First, ensure that you have the necessary tools for the job, including wire strippers, electrical tape, and a screwdriver. Next, turn off the power supply to the outlets you will be working on by flipping the corresponding circuit breaker in your electrical panel. This is essential for safety reasons and should never be skipped.

Rewire the Outlets

Now, it’s time to rewire the outlets to make them not controlled by a switch. Start by removing the screws holding the outlet cover in place and gently pulling it off. Use the screwdriver to unscrew the screws holding the outlet in place. Once the outlet is detached from the wall, you will notice two sets of wires attached to it. One set is connected to the top half of the outlet, and the other set is connected to the bottom half.

To make the outlets not controlled by a switch, you will need to disconnect the wires connected to the bottom half of the outlet, leaving only the wires that are connected to the top half. This will make the top outlet always powered, and the bottom outlet will be disconnected from the switch. If there are only two wires connected to the outlet, you can safely cut the wires connected to the bottom half and cap them off with electric tape.

Double-check and Test

Before securing the outlet back into place, it is crucial to double-check all the connections and ensure that all wires are securely attached. Once you are satisfied with the connections, turn the power back on and test the outlets. The top outlet should now always be powered, regardless of the position of the light switch.

In Conclusion

Making your outlets not controlled by a switch is a relatively simple task, but it is essential to approach it with caution and ensure all safety precautions are followed. If you are not comfortable working with electrical wiring, it is always best to hire a licensed electrician, like B&K Electric, to handle the job for you. However, if you are confident in your DIY skills, following the steps outlined in this guide should allow you to achieve the desired result in your home. Now that you have the knowledge, go ahead and make your outlets not controlled by a switch for more convenience and control in your home!

Topics:

Electrical switch,

outlet control,

residential industry