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How To Make Outlet Not Controlled By Switch

 

Are you tired of having to turn on a light switch just to use an electrical outlet in your home? Do you often find yourself tripping over cords and wires because your outlets are positioned near a switch? These issues are common in many homes, especially those with older electrical systems. But fear not, as there is a solution to this problem – making your outlets not controlled by a switch.

As a homeowner in the lovely neighborhood of Elmhurst, located in the heart of Providence County, Rhode Island (zip code 02908), you may be wondering how to go about this process. Well, look no further, as B&K Electric is here to provide you with all the necessary information and services to help you achieve this goal.

With over seventeen years of experience in the electrical field, B&K Electric is a family-owned and operated business based in Warwick, RI, that prides itself on community involvement and exceptional customer service. Our team of licensed electricians specializes in a wide range of services, including electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation. We have been serving the residents of Warwick, Cranston, and the greater Providence area with utmost professionalism and expertise.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into the steps you need to follow to make your outlets not controlled by a switch.

Step 1: Identify the Switch That Controls the Outlet

In most cases, outlets controlled by a switch are positioned near an entryway or doorway, where a light switch would be commonly located. However, you may have multiple switches in one room, controlling different outlets. So, the first step is to identify which switch controls the outlet you want to “unswitch.”

To do this, you can start by turning off the power to your entire house to ensure your safety. Then, one by one, turn on each switch in your home and see which outlet is affected. This process may be time-consuming, but it is crucial to ensure that you are targeting the correct switch.

Step 2: Disconnect the Wires

Once you have identified the switch, turn off the power to that specific switch at the main circuit breaker. Next, go to the outlet and take off the faceplate. You will see two or more wires attached to the switch in the box behind it. Loosen the screws on these wires to disconnect them from the switch.

Step 3: Create a Bridge Across the Wires

To make your outlet not controlled by a switch, you need to bridge the wires that were previously connected to the switch. This process involves connecting the “incoming hot” wire (black) and the “outgoing hot” wire (also black) together with a wire nut that is usually provided by most hardware stores.

Note: You may want to consult with a licensed electrician or do some thorough research before attempting this step, as it involves working with live wires and poses a potential safety hazard.

Step 4: Test the Outlet

Once the wires are connected, carefully turn the power back on, and test the outlet. If the outlet is now functioning independently, congratulations, you have successfully made your outlet not controlled by a switch!

However, if the outlet is still not working, it could be due to various reasons, such as faulty wiring or an issue with the outlet itself. In this case, it is best to contact a trusted and experienced electrician, like B&K Electric, for further assistance.

Step 5: Safety Precautions

As mentioned earlier, working with electrical wires can be hazardous, and utmost caution must be exercised. Before attempting any of the steps mentioned above, make sure to turn off the power to your entire house to avoid any electrical shocks. Additionally, it is recommended to wear protective gear, such as rubber gloves and eye protection, while working with live wires.

Making your outlets not controlled by a switch is a relatively simple process that requires some basic knowledge of electrical wiring and safety precautions. If you are not confident in your abilities or do not want to take any risks, it is always best to seek the help of a professional electrician.

Remember, when it comes to electrical work, safety should always be a top priority. So, trust the experts at B&K Electric to handle all your electrical needs. We are just a phone call away and ready to provide you with exceptional service and peace of mind.

Topics:

outlet control,

switch control,

electrical wiring