adding a switch to an existing outlet
#1
11-11-04, 08:52 AM
adding a switch to an existing outlet
I want to add a switch to an existing outlet that is in our basement. There are about 6 other outlets all tied together on the same circuit but I only want 1 to be switched. Is this possible?
#2
11-11-04, 09:05 AM
What you need to do is to access the receptacle you want switched. If you can run a piece of nm type cable from this receptacle to the place where you want the switch then you can switchthe receptacle without botghering the balance of the circuit.
Do you want the entire receptacle switched, or only half of the receptacle?
Do you want the entire receptacle switched, or only half of the receptacle?
#3
11-11-04, 10:23 AM
I want the whole outlet switched. This outlet is second from the end of the group of 6, so it's not at the end of the run. This outlet is easily accessible from the other side of the wall which happens to be the utility area of the basement, so getting to it isn't a problem. I didn't think it was possible since there were 5 other outlets tied together. So you're saying that it is possible? I would be able to have this 1 outlet attached to a switch to turn off/on but have the other 5 outlets have constant power?
#4
11-11-04, 10:26 AM
Yes. I'm curious, why do you think this would not be possible?
What size wire is used on this circuit and what size circuit breaker is in place?
What size wire is used on this circuit and what size circuit breaker is in place?
Last edited by racraft; 11-11-04 at 10:54 AM.
#5
11-11-04, 11:22 AM
It is very simple. Remove the 2 black wires from the gold screws of the receptacle. Connect them to the white wire going to the switch with a wire nut. Color the white wire black with marker or tape. Connect the black wire from switch to the gold screw of receptalce. Connect the ground to other grounds.
AT switch connect black and white to switch screws.
AT switch connect black and white to switch screws.
#6
11-11-04, 11:46 AM
racraft - It is 12-2 wire on a 20 amp circuit. I ask if it's possible because I'm not the brightest bulb when it comes to wiring. I never paid attention in electronics class 
joed - thanks much for the info.
joed - thanks much for the info.
#7
11-11-04, 11:49 AM
Follow joed's instructions. Make certain that you use 12/2 cable. Also make sure that the grounds are properly connected at each location.
What you are doing is sending the hot wire down to the switch (on the white wire re-identified as hot), where it is switched. It then returns to the receptacle on the black wire where it connects to the receptacle.
What you are doing is sending the hot wire down to the switch (on the white wire re-identified as hot), where it is switched. It then returns to the receptacle on the black wire where it connects to the receptacle.
