Moving an Outlet Without Leaving a Blank Outlet/Old Box
#1
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Moving an Outlet Without Leaving a Blank Outlet/Old Box
Hello All,
I am in the process of trying to install some new trim which will include shadow boxes and wainscoting. My problem is that the old electrical outlets will be in the way.
I don't think I can splice the wires in the old box and run them up the wall for the new outlet as the wainscoting will cover the old box and I am pretty sure that would violate national codes.
I also don't want to have to cut holes in the wainscoting just to put a blank outlet in.
Is there any way to just move the outlet up the wall without leaving the old box there?
All advice is appreciated. If it helps at all (regarding codes) I live in GA.
I am in the process of trying to install some new trim which will include shadow boxes and wainscoting. My problem is that the old electrical outlets will be in the way.
I don't think I can splice the wires in the old box and run them up the wall for the new outlet as the wainscoting will cover the old box and I am pretty sure that would violate national codes.
I also don't want to have to cut holes in the wainscoting just to put a blank outlet in.
Is there any way to just move the outlet up the wall without leaving the old box there?
All advice is appreciated. If it helps at all (regarding codes) I live in GA.
#3
Welcome.
Most of the time, wall receptacle cables are ran down from the ceiling. So if you want to move a receptacle up, there's a good chance you'll be able to do it.
First, look at the existing box, you will see if cables are fed from the top. This is no guarantee but a good sign.
Cut an exploratory hole below final height of wainscot if you want to explore further, this hole will also allow you to reach the staples for removal.
Most of the time, wall receptacle cables are ran down from the ceiling. So if you want to move a receptacle up, there's a good chance you'll be able to do it.
First, look at the existing box, you will see if cables are fed from the top. This is no guarantee but a good sign.
Cut an exploratory hole below final height of wainscot if you want to explore further, this hole will also allow you to reach the staples for removal.
#4
Member
Most of the time, wall receptacle cables are ran down from the ceiling.
#5
Very true Msradell, thanks. Don't see basements here, or very rarely.
If that's the case, OP can pull cables down, install a junction box, and run one new cable up to new receptacle.
The worse case is that the cables run horizontally.
If that's the case, OP can pull cables down, install a junction box, and run one new cable up to new receptacle.
The worse case is that the cables run horizontally.