How to Wire an Outlet from a Light Switch: A Step-by-Step Guide

How To Wire An Outlet From A Light Switch

Are you tired of running extension cords all over your home just to have enough outlets for your electronics and appliances? Or perhaps, you have a light switch that is underutilized and you wish to add an outlet in that area for convenience. Well, in either case, the solution is simple – wiring an outlet from a light switch.

Located in the beautiful Elmhurst neighborhood of Providence County, Rhode Island, B&K Electric is the go-to electrical company for all your repair, maintenance, and installation needs. As a family-owned and operated business, we are deeply rooted in our community and take pride in providing exceptional customer service. Our team of expert electricians has been serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years.

In this article, we will walk you through the process of wiring an outlet from a light switch, so you can have more outlets for your electrical devices without the hassle of extension cords. Read on to learn how to do it yourself or when to call a professional electrician.

Materials Needed:

– Multimeter

– Cable stripper

– Electrical tape

– Wire connectors

– Screwdrivers

– Needle-nose pliers

– Fused junction box

– GFCI outlet

– 14/2 non-metallic sheathed cable

– Assorted screws and nails

– Wire mesh or cable staples

– Drill and bits

– Wire cutters

Step 1: Determine if Your Switch has Power

Before starting any electrical work, always shut off the power to the circuit you will be working on. This is crucial for your safety. Use a multimeter to test your light switch and make sure there is no power running to it.

Step 2: Prepare the Light Switch

Remove the switch cover and carefully loosen the screws holding the switch in place. Then, gently pull out the switch and disconnect the wires attached to it. Use your multimeter to double-check that there is no power running to the switch.

Step 3: Install the GFCI Outlet

Next, you will need to install a ground-fault circuit-interrupter (GFCI) outlet in place of the light switch. This type of outlet is designed to protect you from any electrical shock by immediately shutting off the power if there is a ground fault. It is highly recommended to use a GFCI outlet when wiring outlets from a light switch.

Step 4: Connect the Wires

Using a cable stripper, remove about 3 inches of the outer sheathing from the 14/2 non-metallic sheathed cable. Then, strip about ½ inch of insulation from the black and white wires inside the cable. Connect the black wire to the hot screw on the GFCI outlet and the white wire to the neutral screw. Use wire connectors to secure the connections and cover them with electrical tape.

Step 5: Wire the Switch

Take another piece of 14/2 non-metallic sheathed cable and run it from the GFCI outlet to the light switch. Strip the sheathing and insulation from both ends. Connect the black wire to the line/load screw on the light switch and the white wire to the common screw. Then, connect the ground wires to the green screw on the switch and the GFCI outlet.

Step 6: Install the Fused Junction Box

To safely connect the wires, you will need to install a fused junction box. This box will protect any new electrical connections and ensure safety in case of power surges. Using screws or nails, attach the box to the wall or a stud.

Step 7: Secure the Wires

Take the 14/2 non-metallic sheathed cable running between the switch and the outlet and secure it with wire mesh or cable staples. Make sure the cable is not twisted, damaged, or touching any sharp edges.

Step 8: Turn on the Power

Once everything is connected, carefully turn on the power to the circuit from your main electrical panel. Use your multimeter to check for any voltage spikes or shorts.

Step 9: Test the Outlet

Plug in a device or light into the GFCI outlet and test if it is working properly. If it is not, turn off the power and double-check all your connections.

Step 10: Replace the Switch Cover

Once the outlet is working, replace the switch cover and screw it back onto the wall. Congratulations, you now have a new outlet from your light switch!

Conclusion:

Wiring an outlet from a light switch is a great solution for adding more outlets to your home without the need for extension cords. However, if you are not confident in your electrical skills, it is always better to hire a licensed electrician for your safety and peace of mind.

At B&K Electric, we are committed to providing top-notch electrical services to our community. Our experienced and licensed electricians will ensure that all your electrical needs are met efficiently and safely. Trust us to be your go-to electrician for all your residential and commercial needs in the Warwick area and greater Providence area.

Topics:

Wiring an Outlet from a Light Switch,

Electrical Repairs,

Residential Electrical Services