Expert Electrician’s Guide to Switch Wiring

How To Wire A Switch To Control 2 Outlets

Are you a homeowner in need of electrical repairs or maintenance? Look no further than B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business located in Warwick, Rhode Island. With over seventeen years of experience, our team of licensed electricians has been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island. Specializing in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, B&K Electric is the go-to electrician for your home or business in the Warwick and greater Providence area.

One common electrical issue that homeowners may face is the need for a switch to control two outlets. Whether you want to add a switch for convenience or for safety reasons, this task may seem intimidating. However, with the right tools and knowledge, you can wire a switch to control two outlets yourself. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process step by step and provide tips for safety and successful completion. So, if you’re a Cranston homeowner looking to tackle this electrical project, read on for all you need to know.

Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to note that electrical work can be dangerous and should only be done by a licensed professional. If you don’t feel comfortable or have any doubts, it’s best to hire an experienced electrician, like B&K Electric, to handle the job. Our team is well-versed in all things electrical and can ensure that the task is done correctly and safely.

With that being said, let’s get into the process of wiring a switch to control two outlets.

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

To begin, make sure you have all the tools and materials needed for this project. This includes:

– A voltage tester to ensure the power is off before starting

– Wire strippers

– Needle-nose pliers

– Screwdrivers

– Electrical tape

– A new switch and outlet

– Electrical boxes and wire nuts

– Electrical wire (preferably 14-gauge)

– Cable clamps

– A staple gun

It’s important to use the correct wires and materials for this project to avoid any potential hazards. If you are unsure about what to use, consult with a professional electrician.

Step 2: Turn Off the Power

Now that you have all your tools and materials ready, the first step is to turn off the power to the outlets you will be working on. This is a crucial step for safety and should not be skipped. To ensure that the power is off, use a voltage tester on the outlet to confirm that there is no current running through it.

Step 3: Remove the Existing Outlet and Switch

Once the power is off, you can safely remove the existing outlet and switch from the wall. Use a screwdriver to remove the cover and screws holding the outlet and switch in place. Be careful not to touch any wires during this process. Once the outlet and switch are removed, use a voltage tester again to confirm that there is no power running through the wires.

Step 4: Disconnect Wires from the Existing Switch

Using needle-nose pliers, carefully disconnect the wires from the existing switch. Make sure to take note of which wires are connected to which screws on the switch. This will make it easier when connecting the new switch later.

Step 5: Connect the New Switch

Start by connecting the black wire from the new switch to the wire that was connected to the top screw of the old switch. Use a wire nut to securely connect the two wires. Next, take the white wire from the new switch and connect it to the white wire from the outlet using another wire nut. Lastly, take the black wire from the outlet and connect it to the remaining black wire from the old switch using a wire nut.

Step 6: Prepare the Outlets

Before installing the new outlets, prepare the electrical boxes by removing any knockouts and attaching cable clamps. This will ensure that the wires are properly secured in the boxes. Next, use the wire strippers to remove about ¾ of an inch of insulation from the ends of the wires.

Step 7: Connect the Outlets

Place the outlets into the electrical boxes, making sure to connect the black wires to the brass-colored screws and the white wires to the silver-colored screws. Use the green screw to attach the ground wire to the outlet. Once all the wires are connected, push the outlets into the boxes and use screws to secure them in place.

Step 8: Test and Turn the Power Back On

Before you can turn the power back on, it’s important to test the new setup. Use your voltage tester to make sure that there is no current running through the outlets. If everything checks out, turn the power back on and test the outlets to ensure that they are working properly.

Step 9: Install the New Switch and Cover

Place the new switch into the wall and use screws to secure it. Next, attach the new cover and secure it with the screw provided. Once everything is in place, turn the power back on and test the switch to ensure that it controls the outlets as intended.

Step 10: Clean Up and Dispose of Old Materials

After completing the installation, clean up your work area and make sure to dispose of any old or unused materials properly. It’s always best to leave your space clean and organized, not just for safety purposes, but also to present a professional appearance.

Wiring a switch to control two outlets may seem like a daunting task, but with the proper tools and guidance, it can be done successfully. Make sure to always follow safety procedures and take your time to ensure the job is done correctly. However, if you have any doubts or concerns, it’s always best to seek help from a licensed electrician.

B&K Electric is a trusted and experienced electrical company in the Cranston, Warwick, and Providence area. Our team of licensed electricians is dedicated to providing quality services and ensuring the safety of our clients’ homes and businesses. For all your electrical needs, contact B&K Electric today.

Topics:

Wiring a switch,

outlet control,

household electrical safety