How to Wire a Switch to Control 2 Outlets: A Step-by-Step Guide

How To Wire A Switch To Control 2 Outlets

Are you a homeowner in the 02904 zip code of North Providence, Rhode Island, looking for a reliable and experienced electrician to handle your electrical needs? Look no further than B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated business based in Warwick, RI. With over seventeen years of experience, we specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, making us the go-to electrician for homes and businesses in the Warwick area and the greater Providence area.

One common issue that homeowners often face is the need to control multiple outlets with just one switch. Whether you’re looking to achieve a cleaner and more streamlined appearance, or you simply prefer the convenience of having one switch to control two outlets, wiring a switch to control two outlets is a relatively simple task that can be done with the right tools and knowledge. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of wiring a switch to control two outlets, so you can have full control over the lighting and appliances in your home. Let’s get started!

1. Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

– A screwdriver (flat-headed and Phillips)

– A pair of wire cutters/strippers

– Needle-nose pliers

– Electrical tape

– A voltage tester

– A switch

– Two outlets

– A junction box

– A roll of 14-gauge Romex wire

– Wire connectors

– Wall plate covers

– A switch and outlet combination device (optional)

2. Turn Off the Power

Safety should always be your top priority when working with electricity. Before you begin, make sure to turn off the power supply to the circuit you’ll be working on. You can do this by shutting off the circuit breaker or removing the fuse controlling the circuit. To be extra cautious, use a voltage tester to check that the power is indeed off before you start working.

3. Identify the Hot and Neutral Wires

Before you can start wiring the switch and outlets, you’ll need to identify the hot and neutral wires. The hot wire carries the electricity from the source to the outlet, while the neutral wire completes the circuit. In most cases, the black wire is the hot wire, and the white wire is the neutral wire. However, it’s always best to use a voltage tester to confirm.

4. Run the 14-Gauge Romex Wire to the Switch

Next, you’ll need to run the Romex wire from the outlet to the switch. Start by removing the sheathing from the end of the Romex wire, exposing the three wires inside (black, white, and copper). Then, using your wire strippers, strip the wires by around 3/4 of an inch. Take the now-exposed wires and connect the black wire to the top brass screw on the switch, the white wire to the silver screw, and the copper wire to the green ground screw.

5. Wire the Outlets

Using wire strippers, strip around 3/4 of an inch of insulation from the ends of the black and white wires of the Romex wire attached to the switch. Then, strip the ends of the wires connected to the two outlets. Connect the black wires together with a wire connector, as well as the white wires and the copper wires. This will create a circuit that connects the outlets and the switch, allowing them to be controlled by the same switch.

6. Mount the Switch and Outlets

Once all the wires are connected, you can now mount the switch and outlets onto a junction box. Use screws to secure the outlets and switch onto the box, making sure they are securely in place.

7. Test the Connections and Turn on the Power

Before you call it a day, use your voltage tester to make sure that all the connections are secure and there are no loose wires. Once you’re satisfied, you can turn the power back on and test out your newly wired switch and outlets.

Optional: Use a Switch and Outlet Combination Device

If you prefer a more streamlined and compact setup, you can consider using a switch and outlet combination device. This device combines a switch and two outlets in one unit, saving you time and effort during installation. However, the wiring process remains the same, with the only difference being that you’ll connect the Romex wire directly to the device instead of using separate outlets and a switch.

Conclusion:

With the help of this step-by-step guide, wiring a switch to control two outlets should now be a breeze. However, if you’re not comfortable working with electricity, it’s best to leave the job to a licensed and experienced electrician like B&K Electric. Our team of skilled electricians has the knowledge and expertise to handle any electrical job with efficiency and precision, ensuring the safety of your home and family.

Topics:

Wiring a Switch,

Two Outlets,

Electrical Repair