How to Connect Two 12V AC Adapters to Get 24V DC

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Things You'll Need

  • Wire nuts

  • Wire stripper

Connecting AC adapters in series increases the voltage.

12V AC adapters are relatively inexpensive, but 24V AC adapters are often more than double the price. By connecting two 12V adapters, you can achieve the 24 volts of current you need without the extra cost. You will be connecting the two adapters in series, which combines the voltage of the two adapters into the total of both without increasing the amperage. If both individual adapters provide 6 amps, for example, they will still provide 6 amps total when connected in series.

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Step 1

Unplug both AC adapters to avoid risk of electric shock.

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Step 2

Cut the wire of the first AC adapter a few inches from the connector. Mark the positive and negative wire on both ends and strip all four exposed wires.

Step 3

Cut the wire of the second AC adapter a few inches from the connector. Mark the positive and negative wire on the adapter end. You will not need the second connector.

Step 4

Twist the positive wire coming from the first adapter to the negative wire coming from the second adapter. Twist a wire nut around both to seal the connection.

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Step 5

Twist the negative wire from the first adapter to the negative wire of the connector. Twist a wire nut around both to seal the connection.

Step 6

Twist the positive wire from the second adapter to the positive wire of the connector. Twist a wire nut around both to seal the connection. Plug both adapters into the wall. Your connector will now supply 24V DC power.

Tip

If the initial connector does not fit the device you need to power, replace the original connector in the steps above.

Warning

Never touch bare wires when the adapters are plugged into the wall, as there is a risk of electric shock.

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