How to Change a Light Switch to an Electrical Outlet
Many times during remodeling projects, homeowners find they need to make changes to the electrical layouts in a room. Whether it's adding new outlets, replacing old outlets with more modern GFI (ground-fault interrupter) outlets or swapping out a switch for an outlet, safety should always come first. The good news is that when replacing a switch with an outlet, the wiring will remain the same. This will cut down on the workload. But be sure to consult a licensed electrician before starting any electrical work. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver (Phillips and/or flat-head)
- Electrical outlet
- Plug-in electrical line tester
Instructions
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1
Turn off the power at the main circuit breaker that is supplying power to the switch to be replaced.
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2
Using the screwdriver, remove the screws and cover plate over the light switch.
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3
Using the screwdriver, remove the two screws on the top and bottom of the switch. Pull the switch out of the electrical box as far as the wiring will allow.
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4
Use the screwdriver to loosen the screws on the sides of the switch and disconnect the wires. Discard the switch.
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5
Connect the wires to the electrical outlet using the screwdriver and the following connections: Connect the black (hot) wire to the brass screw. Connect the white (neutral) wire to the silver screw. Connect the bare (ground) copper wire to the green screw. Tighten each screw to a snug fit.
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6
Push the wiring back into the electrical box and mount the outlet to the box using the screwdriver and included screws.
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7
Mount the outlet cover using the screwdriver and included screws.
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8
Turn the power back on at the main circuit panel.
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9
Plug in the electrical line tester into the outlet. The tester lights should turn on, indicating the outlet is receiving electricity.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Never attempt to work on any electrical lines with power still running through them, as this could result in serious injury or electrocution.
Follow the manufacturer guidelines for safety and operation of the particular model electrical line tester you have.
References
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Comments
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circuitrighter
Feb 03, 2011
These instructions sound like the old switch box contained only one black, one white, and one ground wire. If so, the outlet won't work. If not, the instructions are incomplete; among other things, what becomes of the wires that used to go to the light that the switch controlled (will the light now stay on all the time?)? -
circuitrighter
Feb 03, 2011
These instructions sound like the old switch box contained only one black, one white, and one ground wire. If so, the outlet won't work. If not, the instructions are incomplete; among other things, what becomes of the wires that used to go to the light that the switch controlled (will the light now stay on all the time?)?
