connecting via a single pole toggle switch
#1
08-28-18, 06:32 PM
connecting via a single pole toggle switch
I recently moved into a new (to me) home and want to convert the overhead garage lights from a single switch to a pair of three ways. I find that the hot coming from the panel and the hot leading to the lights are backstabbed to a single pole switch in the usual way AND the hot leading to the opener outlet is sidewired to the hot terminal of the same switch. I'm used to seeing this being pigtailed and wirenutted. Is this set up common and/or does it meet code?
#2
08-28-18, 06:53 PM
Group Moderator
That is the lazy man connection.
The proper way would be to make a splice of the hot wires with a tail out to the switch.
The proper way would be to make a splice of the hot wires with a tail out to the switch.
#3
08-28-18, 07:00 PM
Forum Topic Moderator
There is no code issue with the way it was. Some consider it poor practice, but it is allowed.
#4
08-28-18, 07:11 PM
Thanks, Pete. I'm just a homeowner now in my fifth home (I'm old) over the years but I had not run into that before. This house was built 18 years old in a PUD of several hundred and I've run into some other things that suggest the electrical was done in a hurry and/or on the cheap.
Since I have to undo this setup to change to the three ways anyhow I definitely will do it the way you described.
Plus I'm not crazy about backstabbing
Since I have to undo this setup to change to the three ways anyhow I definitely will do it the way you described.
Plus I'm not crazy about backstabbing
Last edited by puzzled2; 08-28-18 at 07:22 PM. Reason: add a line
