My basement was professionally wired by an electrician before drywall. I am now attempting to install the outlets and outlet covers.

Most outlets are easy. One or two sets of black/white wires with one or two grounds, respectively. I have identified the initial outlet in the circuit for those that require GFI's

Here's the problem: I have 3 outlets (out of 41) that have 3 full sets of black/white wires. How do I handle those outlets? I do not believe that any of them are "switched" outlets because there are no extra switches...only ones that turn on and off the recessed lights.

Any thoughts on how this situation should be addressed?

I would be happy to provide more info.....

 

Use a wire nut to connect the three black wires to each other, and to a 3-inch pigtail of black wire. Connect the other end of the black pigtail to a brass screw.

Use a wire nut to connect the three white wires to each other, and to a 3-inch pigtail of white wire. Connect the other end of the white pigtail to a silver screw.

Use a wire nut to connect the three bare wires to each other, and to a 3-inch pigtail of bare wire. Connect the other end of the bare pigtail to the green screw.

 

Thanks for the great advice. I will get back to it first thing tomorrow morning and let you know how it works.

Just so I know the next time, what's the rationale for having the 3 wires come together like that vs. the way that it is in the other outlets (just one or two sets of wire)?

 

If you are certain none of the 6 wires in these particular outlets {you must be sure!!}then I would wire "pigtails" at these outlets & install receptacles.Pigtails are wires that come off of a group of wires{all the same leg or color---hot or neutral}.This will leave only two wires to connect for the recptacles.Do yourself a favor DON'T use the backstabs on any devices you install,they will only create problems later.Good luck

 

The electrician just needs to get the cable to all the boxes. Sometimes it saves some cable and/or drilling to "T" off the main branch. There are a nearly infinite number of cable routing possibilities that will work.