How to Wire a Switched Outlet: A Step-by-Step Guide
Do you need an outlet to turn on and off with a light switch? If so, wiring a switched outlet can provide a simple solution to this problem. This article will walk you through the step-by-step process, offer safety precautions, and provide information on troubleshooting any issues that may arise. We’ll also compare different methods of wiring and provide tips on avoiding common mistakes.
Step-by-Step Guide
Before you begin, gather the necessary materials and tools:
– Outlet (preferably rated for 15 amps or higher)
– Wire stripper
– Screwdrivers
– Electrical pliers
– Voltage tester (recommended to ensure outlets are off before beginning)
– Electrical tape
Safety Precautions:
– Always turn off the power to the electrical socket before attempting to work on it.
– Wear safety goggles or glasses when working on electrical projects.
– Firmly grip the outlets when working on them and avoid electrocution.
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Turn off the power: Before you do anything, turn off the circuit breaker or the fuse to the outlet you’re working on.
2. Remove the outlet cover plate: Using a screwdriver, remove the screws that hold the outlet cover plate in place. Once removed, place the screws aside for safe keeping.
3. Disconnect the old outlet: Using a screwdriver, disconnect the wires from the old outlet. Be sure to make note of where the wires were connected on the old outlet and the colors of the wires.
4. Prepare the wires: Remove about 3/4 inch of insulation from the tips of the wires using a wire stripper. Then, twist each wire’s exposed end tightly together until they are all of the same length.
5. Connect the wires to the new outlet: Connect the wires to the new outlet in the same configuration as they were connected on the old outlet. Black goes to brass screws, white to silver screws, and green or bare copper to the green or bare screw found on the outlet. Tighten the screws on the wire nuts in a clockwise manner using electrical pliers. Check to make sure none of the wires have become undone.
6. Reattach the outlet cover plate: Screw the outlet cover plate back into place with the screws you set aside earlier.
Illustrations:
Check out the illustrations accompanying each step for a helpful visual guide.
Comparison Guide
There are a few different methods for wiring a switched outlet. The most common is to simply break off the brass-colored tab between the outlet’s two brass screws. This tab allows one wire to be connected to both brass screws, creating two circuits rather than one. This way, one wire is always hot while the other is switched, and flowing current won’t occur.
Many electricians also prefer to wire the outlet’s circuit directly to the light switch which can turn on and off the flow of electricity. For longer wiring distances, this may be the best option, but it does result in an always-hot receptacle with a switched hot wire.
Video Tutorial
For those who prefer video tutorials, this handy guide is for you! This mostly visual guide gives you diagrams along with a verbal explanation of each step of the wiring process.
Safety Precautions Guide
Working with electricity is dangerous, and it’s essential to take safety precautions when working with switched outlets. The primary risk is that you could receive a serious electrical shock, which could be fatal. Here are some tips for working safely:
– Always turn off the circuit breaker or fuse to the outlet you’re working on.
– Use voltage testers to ensure that the outlet is indeed not live.
– Work in a dry environment.
– Wear safety goggles or glasses to protect your eyes from debris and sparks.
– Firmly grip the outlet when working on it and avoid electrocution.
Tips for Safe Troubleshooting:
– When first testing a switched outlet, use a non-contact Electrical Tester.
– Measure the voltage from the hot and neutral wires in the outlet. If the tester reads 120volts, continue with the necessary steps when replacing the outlet.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes that occur when wiring a switched outlet:
– Not breaking off the tab between the brass screws of the outlet.
– Not connecting wires properly to the outlet.
– Not using proper wire nut connections, causing electrical failures or fires.
Apart from these well-known mistakes, there are even more mistakes that can happen when wiring an outlet-switch, so be sure to read some of our other safety guides to ensure a successful job.
Troubleshooting Guide
If you encounter any problems when wiring a switched outlet, here are some steps to help troubleshoot:
– Test the outlet using a non-contact Electrical Tester
– Check and make sure the correct wires are being tempered with correctly
– Tighten any loose wiring using electrical pliers.
Conclusion
Wiring a switched outlet can help provide a simple solution for controlling electricity flow to a particular outlet. As long as safety precautions are followed, it’s a job that can be done by the DIY-er and homeowner. By following our step-by-step guide, you’re well on your way to having a functioning switched outlet while avoiding the common mistakes that lead to electrical failures.
