How to Wire a Combination Switch & Receptacle

Wiring a combination switch receptacle..

A switch and receptacle combination can conveniently control table lamps and other plug-in appliances. There are many wiring combinations, but the most common configuration is a single switch controlling power to both outlets of the receptacle.

Things You'll Need

• Common household light switch
• Common household receptacle
• Regular screwdriver
• Wire cutters
• Needle-nosed pliers

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Instructions

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1. Turn off the power to the circuit where the switch and receptacle will be installed. Set your double outlet box in the desired location by securing flush into wall with screws or nails.

2. Pull electrical wiring from the existing outlet into the newly installed outlet box. Pull approximately eight inches of wire into the new box to allow for adequate slack to connect new switch and receptacle.

3. Strip back the outer sheath from the electrical wire to expose three to four inches for connecting to the switch and receptacle. Strip back 1/2 inch of wire insulation from the ends of the black and white wire that were exposed when the outer sheath was removed.

4. Connect the back wire coming into the outlet box to the lower wire screw on the switch and tighten with screwdriver. Connect the white wire to the top wire screw on the receptacle and tighten with screwdriver.

5. Cut a six-inch piece of black electrical wire and strip back 1/2 inch of insulation from each end to be connected between the switch and receptacle.

6. Connect one end of the black wire to the wire screw located near the top of the switch and tighten with screwdriver. Connect the opposite end of black wire to the opposite side of the receptacle from the white wire and secure to screw with screwdriver. Connect the ground wire to the ground wire screw (painted green) on the receptacle and tighten with screw driver.

7. Install switch and receptacle into the outlet box with screws supplied with each. Tighten screws with screwdriver. Place outlet box faceplate onto outlet and secure with screws provided with cover. Tighten with screwdriver.

8. Turn power back on. The switch now controls power to the receptacle.

Tips & Warnings

• Always double check to ensure power has been turned off to the circuit or electrical devise to be serviced before performing repairs.

References

• "Do It Yourself Help": Wiring Diagrams for Household Switches