Fully Wiring Switch for Two Outlets: Guide

How To Wire A Switch To Control 2 Outlets

As a homeowner in Providence, Rhode Island, it is essential to have a reliable and efficient electrical system in your residence. From powering appliances and electronics to providing light and warmth, electricity plays a crucial role in our daily lives. However, with multiple outlets and switches scattered around our homes, it can be challenging to keep track of which switch controls which outlet. This can not only be frustrating but also lead to unnecessary energy consumption. But fear not, as B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, is here to help.

With over seventeen years of experience, B&K Electric has been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island. We specialize in electrical repair, electrical panel maintenance, and installation, making us your go-to electrician for your home or business in the Warwick area and the greater Providence area. In this article, we will guide you through the process of wiring a switch to control two outlets, ensuring convenience, efficiency, and safety in your home.

Understanding the Basics

Before we dive into the steps of wiring a switch to control two outlets, it is essential to understand the basics of how electricity flows through your home. All of the electricity in your home is supplied through the main electrical panel, also known as the breaker box. The main panel contains multiple circuit breakers that control the flow of electricity to different areas of your home. Each circuit is connected to a specific switch and outlet, providing power to the appliances and devices connected to them. By turning off the proper switch, you can cut the power flow to a particular outlet and prevent any electrical hazards.

Gathering the Necessary Tools

To get started with wiring a switch to control two outlets, you will need to gather a few essential tools. This includes:

– A screwdriver

– Needle-nose pliers

– Wire cutters/strippers

– Voltage tester

– Electrical tape

– Switch with two switches in one (also known as a double pole switch)

– Two three-prong outlets

– Three-gang wall box

– Wires

– Wire nuts

It is crucial to ensure that these tools are in good condition before beginning the process to prevent any accidents or malfunctions.

Shutting Down the Power

The first and most important step in any electrical project is to shut off the power to the designated area. In this case, you will need to turn off the main power to your home in the electrical panel. This will cut off the electricity flow to all circuits, ensuring your safety while working on the outlets and switches. Once the power is turned off, double-check with a voltage tester to ensure that there is no electricity flowing through the wires.

Installing the Double Pole Switch

Now that the power is off, you can begin the process of wiring a switch to control two outlets. The first step is to install the double pole switch in the three-gang wall box. This switch has four brass screws, with two on each side. The screws on the same side are connected, making it possible to control two circuits with one switch. Start by connecting the two black wires to the brass screws on one side, and the two white wires to the brass screws on the other side, using the needle-nose pliers to twist them securely. The green ground wire should be connected to the green grounding screw at the bottom of the switch.

Wiring the Outlets

Once the double pole switch is installed, you can move on to wiring the two outlets. Begin by connecting the black wires to the top brass screws on each outlet, and the white wires to the bottom silver screws. For additional safety, you can wrap electrical tape around the outlet screws. The ground wire should be connected to the green screw at the bottom of the outlet, similar to the switch.

Connecting the Wires

Now that the switch and outlets are wired separately, it is time to connect them together. This is where the double pole switch comes into play. Connect the black wire from the switch to the black wire on one outlet, and the black wire from the other outlet to the white wire on the switch. Similarly, connect the white wire from the switch to the white wire on one outlet, and the white wire from the other outlet to the black wire on the switch. Next, connect the ground wire from the switch to the ground wires on both outlets.

Testing the Outlets

Once the wiring is complete, it is time to turn the power back on and test the outlets. Use the voltage tester to check if there is electricity flowing through the outlets. If there is no electricity, then you have successfully wired the switch to control two outlets. However, if the voltage tester indicates that there is still electricity flowing, you will need to double-check the wiring and connections. If the problem persists, it is best to consult a licensed electrician like B&K Electric to ensure the safety of yourself and your home.

Last reflections

Having a switch to control two outlets is not only convenient but also ensures energy efficiency and safety in your home. By following the steps mentioned above and consulting with a professional electrician, you can easily wire a switch to control two outlets in your Providence, Rhode Island residence. B&K Electric is dedicated to providing high-quality electrical services to our community and ensuring the satisfaction and safety of our customers. So why wait? Contact us today and make us your go-to electrician for all your electrical needs!

Topics:

Wiring a switch to control 2 outlets,

electrical safety,

residential electrical systems