How to Wire Outlets and Switches the Old-Fashioned Way

Learning how to wire electrical outlets and switches is an essential skill for any homeowner. While newer methods utilize quicker push-in connections, doing it the old-fashioned way with screw terminals gives you a better understanding of electrical systems. In this comprehensive guide, I'll walk you through the entire process of wiring outlets and switches by hand from start to finish.

Gathering the Right Materials

Wiring outlets and switches requires having the proper materials on hand. Here's what you'll need:

• Electrical wire - 14/2 or 12/2 NM electrical wire is commonly used. The wire contains a black (hot), white (neutral), and bare copper (ground) wire.

• Wire strippers - A proper pair of wire strippers is necessary to strip the plastic insulation off the wires.

• Screwdrivers - Standard screwdrivers are needed to connect the wires to the terminals.

• Voltmeter - Used to test for power. Helpful when wiring a new circuit.

• Outlet and switch boxes - Plastic or metal boxes house the outlets/switches.

• Cable clamps - Allow the wire to enter the box while maintaining proper strain relief.

• Outlets and switches - Get the correct matching voltage and amperage rating.

• Wire nuts - Twists multiple bare copper wires together for a solid connection.

Having these supplies ensures you can safely and effectively wire new outlets and switches. Always turn off the power at the breaker before working.

Wiring a New Outlet

When wiring a brand new outlet, the first step is running the electrical cable between the breaker panel and the outlet box.

Running the Cable

• Shut off the main breaker before running any new wiring.

• Plan the route from the panel to the outlet location. Follow existing runs and drill holes through framing.

• Use NM electrical wire. Preferably 12/2 wire for 20 amp circuits and 14/2 for 15 amp circuits.

• Make sure to leave an extra 1-2 ft of wire in the outlet box to work with.

Installing the Outlet Box

• Mount a plastic or metal outlet box in the desired location. Screw it directly to a stud or use braces for drywall.

• Use a drywall saw to cut an opening if installing in finished wall.

• Drill or knock out holes and insert cable clamps in the box. Feed the cable through the clamp into the box.

Connecting the Wires

• Black wire - Connect to the brass screw on the outlet. This is the hot wire.

• White wire - Connect to the silver screw. This neutral wire completes the circuit.

• Bare copper - Attach to the green ground screw on the outlet. Important for safety.

• Make sure connections are tight and no copper is exposed.

Finishing Up

• Carefully tuck wires into the box, relieving any tension or stress.

• Install the outlet into the box. Screw it in securely.

• Put the wall plate on. Restore power and test with a voltmeter or lamp.

Following these steps properly will result in a safely wired new electrical outlet that provides power as expected.

Replacing an Existing Outlet

When an outlet has become worn out or damaged, replacing it is a simple DIY task.

Turn Off Power

Safety first! Turn off the circuit breaker for that outlet before doing any work. Test with a voltage tester to be sure.

Remove Old Outlet

• Unscrew and take off the wall plate covering the outlet.

• Unscrew the outlet from the box and gently pull it out.

• Carefully inspect the existing wires. Make sure insulation is intact with no cracks.

Disconnect Wires

• Disconnect the black hot wire from the old outlet.

• Disconnect the white neutral wire.

• Unattach the ground wire as well.

• Remove any wire nuts connecting multiple wires.

Connect New Outlet

• Attach the black wire to the new outlet's hot brass screw.

• Connect the white wire to the new outlet's silver neutral screw.

• Attach the ground to the green screw.

• Use wire nuts to reconnect any loose wires.

• Ensure tight and secure connections.

Install and Test

• Mount the new outlet securely into the box.

• Put the wall plate back on.

• Restore power and test operation. Plus check for voltage.

With the proper precautions, swapping a worn outlet is an easy do-it-yourself home improvement project.

Wiring a New Light Switch

Adding a switch to control an existing or new light fixture starts with proper switch box installation.

Mounting the Switch Box

• Shut power off at the breaker.

• Choose a spot accessible to the wiring. Cut a hole if needed.

• Mount a 1-gang box at the desired height. Often 46-48" above floor.

• Run the NM electrical cable into the box through a clamp.

Connecting the Wires

• Black wire - Connect to one of the screws on the switch. The hot wire.

• White wire - Attach to the other switch screw. Neutral return.

• Ground - Connect to the grounding screw or wire inside box.

• Extra black - Hot wire to the light fixture. Connect with a wire nut.

• Double check connections are tight and no copper exposed.

Finishing Touches

• Carefully tuck wires into box avoiding any pinch points.

• Securely screw the switch into the box.

• Attach the wall plate cover.

• Turn on power and test switch operation.

Take the time to label wires to avoid confusion. Follow local electrical codes and permit requirements too. Properly wiring a switch ensures safe control of lights and other devices.

Helpful Wiring Tips

Here are some helpful tips to reference when wiring outlets and switches the old-fashioned way:

• Turn off power - Always shut off electricity at the breaker before starting any electrical project.

• Check wires - Inspect existing wires for damage or cracks before connecting anything new.

• Label wires - Use masking tape to label each wire according to what it connects to.

• Make tight connections - Loose wires can overheat or short. Screw terminals down tightly.

• Use wire nuts properly - Wrap in a clockwise direction and ensure the nut is snug over the wires.

• Organize wires - Neatly tuck wires into the boxes to avoid loose wires or pinch points.

• Work safely - Wear gloves and eye protection when drilling or handling wires.

• Follow codes - Adhere to all local building codes and electrical standards.

• Ensure proper grounding - Grounding provides critical shock protection.

• Check your work - Verify proper outlet and switch operation once the power is back on.

By leveraging these helpful electrical tips and tricks, you can master how to wire outlets and switches like a professional electrician.