splicing wires from existing outlet

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07-24-03, 07:40 PM

cathlabrunner

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splicing wires from existing outlet

Hello,

I have recently enclosed my back patio. I would like to install 2 new outlets on the patio wall directly behind two existing indoor outlets in my living room. The indoor outlets are powered on a 20 amp circuit. I would like to tap directly into these exisiting indoor outlets in order to install my outdoor patio outlets.

These outdoor patio outlets will not be exposed to the elements. Also, I am installing a new cypress board wall so I will have access to the back of the existing indoor living room outlets. What is the best way to connect the existing outlets to my new outlets?

Thanks,
Joey

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07-24-03, 07:56 PM

John Nelson

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First of all, you need a ruling from your inspector as to whether these receptacles are considered indoors or outdoors. GFCI requirements don't care whether or not the receptacles will be exposed to the weather -- they only care whether they are indoors or out.

Next, make sure you aren't tapping into switched receptacles. Switched receptacles are quite common in living rooms.

Buy some 12/2 cable. Feed it into both the old and new boxes. At the old box, connect black to brass and white to silver if there are any leftover screws. If no leftover screws, use pigtails to accomplish the same thing. You will probably need to add a pigtail for the grounding connection if there is not already a pigtail there. At the new box, connect black to brass and white to silver and bare to green.

Step-by-step instructions and colorful pictures for all of the above is well covered in most home wiring books.

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