Separating a light switch from an outlet can be accomplished in a couple of different ways. Let’s explore both options in detail.
Option 1: Running a separate line from the electrical box to the outlet
1. Before starting any electrical work, it’s crucial to turn off the power to the circuit you’ll be working on. Locate the correct circuit breaker in your electrical panel and switch it off.
2. Once the power is off, you can begin by removing the cover plate of the outlet and the light switch. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the cover plates in place.
3. After removing the cover plates, you will see the wiring connections inside the electrical boxes. Take note of how the wires are currently connected, and if needed, make a diagram or label the wires for future reference.
4. Next, you will need to run a new electrical cable from the electrical box where the power source is located to the outlet box. This will involve drilling holes through studs or running the cable along the surface, depending on your specific situation.
5. Once the new cable is in place, strip the outer insulation of the cable at both ends to expose the individual wires. Connect the black (hot) wire to the brass-colored screw terminal on the outlet, the white (neutral) wire to the silver-colored screw terminal, and the bare or green (ground) wire to the green screw terminal. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper wiring techniques.
6. In the electrical box where the power source is located, connect the other end of the new cable to the corresponding wires. Make sure to connect the wires to the correct terminals, matching their color coding.
7. Once all the connections are secure and properly tightened, carefully tuck the wires back into the electrical boxes. Ensure that there is no exposed copper wire visible.
8. reattach the cover plates to the outlet and the light switch, and turn the power back on at the electrical panel.
Option 2: Running a separate line from the hot lines in the light switch box to the outlet
1. Start by turning off the power to the circuit you’ll be working on, using the appropriate circuit breaker in your electrical panel.
2. Remove the cover plate of the light switch, using a screwdriver to loosen the screws holding it in place.
3. Carefully disconnect the wires from the light switch, taking note of their positions. It’s advisable to label the wires or make a diagram to remember the connections.
4. In the light switch box, you will need to run a new electrical cable from the hot lines to the outlet box. This will involve drilling holes or running the cable along the surface, similar to the first option.
5. Strip the outer insulation of the new cable at both ends, exposing the individual wires. Connect the black (hot) wire to the brass-colored screw terminal on the outlet, the white (neutral) wire to the silver-colored screw terminal, and the bare or green (ground) wire to the green screw terminal.
6. In the light switch box, connect the other end of the new cable to the existing hot wires. Again, ensure that you match the wire colors correctly and tighten all connections securely.
7. Once all the connections are made, carefully tuck the wires back into their respective boxes, ensuring there are no exposed wires.
8. Reattach the cover plate to the light switch and turn the power back on at the electrical panel.
Remember, electrical work can be dangerous if not done properly. If you are unsure about any part of the process or lack experience with electrical work, it’s always best to consult a licensed electrician to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.