How to Add an Outlet to a Single Light Switch in a Bathroom

It is often easier to add an outlet to a light switch box than to run wiring for an entirely new outlet. While adding an outlet can save time and money, it is not always possible, and there are some limitations. Certain areas,such as a bathroom, will not easily accommodate this switch. Most items used in a bathroom, such as a hairdryer, will draw too many amps and require at least a 20-amp circuit. But for smaller appliances and applications, this addition can be very helpful.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver Circuit tester Switch/outlet device Switch cover

1. Turn off the electricity at the breaker for the switch you intend to rewire. Start with the light on, then turn off the appropriate breaker. The light should be off. Test the switch to make certain the power is off before continuing.

2. Using a screwdriver, remove the switch face plate by removing the two small screws. After removing the face plate, remove the light switch from the wall by removing the two screws at the top and bottom of the switch. Pull the switch out of the wall box, and allow it to be supported by the wires.

3. There should be a hot wire and a neutral wire in the junction box. The hot wire should be black and will be secured to the light switch with two screws. Loosen these screws and remove the wire. Remove the old switch.

4. Hold the new switch/outlet in place with the switch portion at the top of the box. Reconnect the two ends of black wire to the light switch by loosening the two screws, placing the stripped ends of the wires under the screw heads and retightening the screws. Make certain the two wires do not touch after the screws are tightened. (If there is an additional green wire in the box, this must be attached to the green ground screw on the outlet.)

5. Carefully guide the new switch/outlet back into the junction box, and secure it by tightening the two screws at the top and bottom of the junction box. Make certain these screws are tight and the switch is firmly in place.

6. Attach the new face plate, and turn the power back on. Check the outlet for power and proper wiring by using a plug-in circuit tester. The outlet should now support any device that does not exceed the original amp rating of the light switch. (The outlet will provide power only as long as the light switch is in the "On" position.)

Tips & Warnings

• If the switch was intended to handle only low-amp items such as a light, you may be restricted on what items you can use in the outlet. If a device draws too many amps, the breaker will trip, and you will lose power.
• Be certain all power is turned off at the breaker before beginning this or any other electrical project.