How to Wire Outlets in a Circle

Installing outlets in a circular layout can be a great way to provide power access all around a room. With some planning and basic electrical skills, you can wire outlets in a circle for a clean, symmetrical look.

Determine the Location and Number of Outlets

The first step is deciding where you want to place the outlets and how many you need. Here are some tips:

Outlets should be spaced 4-6 feet apart for optimal coverage around the room. Make sure there is an outlet within 6 feet of any point along the walls.
Plan for at least 4-6 outlets in the circle to provide sufficient power access. More outlets may be needed for larger rooms.
Mark the outlet locations with a pencil so you can visualize the spacing. Equal spacing usually looks best.
Consider existing fixtures like windows and doors when placing outlets to avoid conflicts. Leave at least 12 inches of clearance.
Keep outlets at least 12 inches from floor level and avoid above counters or cabinets. Standard outlet height is 18 inches.

Gather the Required Electrical Materials

Wiring multiple outlets requires having the right supplies on hand:

NM-B electrical cable - Use 14/2 cable for 15 amp circuits or 12/2 for 20 amp circuits. Purchase enough cable to run from the power source to each outlet.
Boxes to house the outlets - Plastic or metal boxes are fine. Make sure they are large enough for wire clamps and connections.
Wire connectors - Get push-in style or wire nuts in the appropriate size for the cable.
Circuit breaker - Have a 15 or 20 amp breaker available depending on the outlet amperage.
Conduit and fittings (as needed) - If running cable through walls, you may need conduit to protect the wiring.
Electrical tape - Useful for marking wires and connections.
Voltage tester - Essential for safely checking wires are de-energized.
Other tools - Phillips screwdriver, drill, level, stud finder, drywall saw, and clamp.

Turn Off Power and Install New Circuit Breaker

Safety first! Switch off the main breaker panel before wiring the outlets:

Cut power to the room you are working in by turning off the circuit breaker that controls the existing outlets.
Verify power is off by testing outlets with a voltage tester. There should be no voltage present.
Install a new 15 or 20 amp breaker in the panel depending on the outlet amp rating. The new outlets will be powered from this breaker.
Label the new breaker clearly so you and others know what it controls.

Working with the power off reduces the risk of shocking yourself.

Run the Electrical Cable between Outlets

With the power disconnected, you can start routing the NM-B cable:

Run cable between each box location keeping at least 12 inches from any conduits or plumbing.
Leave an extra 1-2 feet of slack at each box to make connections.
Secure the cable with cable staples every 4-6 feet through the framing.
Use conduit where passing cable through masonry or drywall to protect it from damage.
Avoid kinking the cable and keep the bends gradual. Kinks can break wire strands.
Label both ends of each cable segment with tape to keep things organized.

Taking it slow and methodical here makes the wiring much simpler.

Connect the Outlets and Test the Circuit

With the cables run, you can now wire and mount the outlets:

Strip 1/2" of insulation from each wire end and twist the strands together.
Connect each outlet using the hot (black), neutral (white), and ground (bare) wires.
Use push-in connectors or wire nuts to join the wires securely.
Mount the outlets into their boxes keeping wires neatly managed.
Test that each outlet is wired correctly by plugging in a lamp once the power is back on.
Check for proper grounding by using a receptacle tester.
Finally, put on the outlet covers and admire your work!

Taking the time to connect and test each outlet is important to confirm everything is working properly.

Wiring outlets in a circular layout takes planning and attention to detail. By following basic electrical safety procedures and connecting outlets methodically, you can create a clean, functional outlet arrangement. Just be sure to turn the power back off before using any outlets to avoid getting shocked! Proper wiring is key.