Mastering Outlet Control: Cranston Homeowner’s Guide

How To Wire A Switch To Control 2 Outlets

As a homeowner in Cranston, Rhode Island, you want to make sure that your home is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also safe and functional. One aspect of your home that often gets overlooked is the electrical wiring. We rely on electricity for almost everything in our homes, and having a properly wired system is crucial for the safety and functionality of your home. That’s why it’s important to have a basic understanding of electrical wiring and how to make simple changes, such as wiring a switch to control 2 outlets. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step and provide some helpful tips along the way.

B&K Electric is a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, Rhode Island. With over seventeen years of experience, we have been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island. Our team of licensed electricians specializes in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation. We understand the importance of quality work and excellent customer service, and that’s why we are dedicated to providing top-notch services to our community. Make B&K Electric your go-to electrician for your home or business in the Warwick area and the greater Providence area.

Before we dive into the process of wiring a switch to control 2 outlets, it’s important to note that electricity can be dangerous if not handled properly. We highly recommend hiring a licensed electrician, like those at B&K Electric, for any electrical work in your home. However, if you are confident in your ability and have the necessary knowledge and tools, you can attempt this project on your own. Just remember to always use caution and follow safety protocols.

Now, let’s get started with the process of wiring a switch to control 2 outlets.

Step 1: Gather All the Necessary Tools and Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials on hand. For this project, you will need a wire stripper, a screwdriver, electrical tape, a voltage tester, a cable clamp, a wire nut, and a 15-amp single-pole switch. You will also need 14/2 electrical wire and a 14/3 electrical wire. If you are unsure about the type of wire to use, consult an electrician or refer to the National Electrical Code (NEC).

Step 2: Turn Off the Power

Safety should always be your top priority when working with electricity. Before starting any electrical project, you must turn off the power at the circuit breaker. Use a voltage tester to confirm that the power is off before proceeding. This will ensure that you do not get electrocuted while working on the wiring.

Step 3: Identify the Hot Wire

The hot wire is responsible for carrying the electrical current from your service panel to the outlets. It is usually black in color and can be identified by using a voltage tester. Touch one end of the tester to the hot wire and the other end to a neutral wire. If the tester lights up, you have found the hot wire.

Step 4: Prepare the Wires

Once you have identified the hot wire, you can begin preparing the wires for wiring the switch to the outlets. Using a wire stripper, remove about 1 inch of insulation from the end of each wire. This will expose the copper wire inside.

Step 5: Connect the Wires to the Switch

Now it’s time to connect the wires to the switch. Take the black wire from the 14/2 electrical wire and connect it to the screw on the side of the switch that is labeled common. Then, take the black wire from the 14/3 electrical wire and connect it to the remaining screw on the switch, which is labeled brass.

Step 6: Connect the Ground Wires

Next, connect the bare copper ground wire from the 14/2 wire to the green screw on the switch. If your switch does not have a green screw, wrap the wire around the grounding screw on the switch.

Step 7: Connect the Neutral Wires

Now it’s time to connect the white neutral wires. Take the white wire from the 14/2 electrical wire and connect it to the white wire from the 14/3 electrical wire using a wire nut. Then, connect the other end of the 14/3 wire to the silver screw on the switch.

Step 8: Install the Switch and Outlets

Using a screwdriver, install the switch and outlets into the electrical box. Be sure that all the wires are secured and the connections are tight.

Step 9: Test the Switch and Outlets

Once everything is installed, turn the power back on and use a voltage tester to ensure that the switch and outlets are receiving power. If everything is working properly, you can continue to the final step.

Step 10: Secure the Switch and Outlets

Finally, secure the switch and outlets in the electrical box and close it up.

Congratulations, you have successfully wired a switch to control 2 outlets in your home! We hope this step-by-step guide has been helpful and has provided you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle this project on your own.

Remember, safety should always be your top priority when working with electricity. If at any point you are unsure or uncomfortable with the process, B&K Electric is just a call away. Our team of licensed electricians is always ready to assist with any electrical needs in your home.

Topics:

Wiring,

Switch,

Outlets