Installing Electrical Outlets in Closets

Adding outlets to closets can be very useful for powering lighting, charging devices, using vacuums, and more. However, closets present some unique challenges when it comes to electrical wiring that need to be addressed to ensure the outlets are installed safely and to code. In this article, I will provide a step-by-step guide to installing electrical outlets in closets, covering key considerations and best practices.

Safety Precautions

When working with electrical wiring, safety should always be the top priority. Here are some important safety steps to take when installing outlets in closets:

• Turn off the power at the main circuit breaker panel - This ensures the wires you are working on are not live.
• Test wires with a non-contact voltage tester - Double check wires are not hot before working on them, even after turning off the main power.
• Follow local electrical codes - Closets may have special wiring requirements, so check with local permitting office.
• Use caution drilling into walls - There may be existing wires inside the wall you need to avoid hitting.
• Wear personal protective equipment - Eye protection, gloves, etc.

Choosing a Location

When selecting where to install the closet outlet, consider:

• Reachability - Don't install too high or low. Standard outlet height is 12"-18" off the floor.
• Door swing - Avoid locations where outlet box or cord/plugs will interfere with closet door opening.
• Purpose - Consider what you want to plug in and select convenient location.
• Existing wiring - Try to tap into existing wiring runs if possible.

Also check local code for any restrictions on placing outlets inside closets. Some jurisdictions prohibit outlets being installed on the wall of closet storage space.

Electrical Load Considerations

The outlets you install in a closet need to be able to safely support the electrical load that will be placed on them.

• For general use (charging phones, basic lighting), a 15 amp standard outlet is sufficient.
• If powering larger lights or vacuum cleaners, use 20 amp outlet.
• Follow NEC guidelines for required number of outlets per square footage of closet space.
• Use GFCI outlet for protection, especially near plumbing fixtures.
• For heavy loads, a dedicated 20 amp circuit just for the closet may be required.

Wiring Options

There are a few different ways to wire new outlets into an existing closet:

Using Existing Circuit

• Tapping into existing circuit is easiest if there is access to wires in wall box.
• Requires wiring a new run inside walls and ceiling into closet.
• Limited to capacity of existing circuit breaker.

New Circuit

• Running a new wire from main panel allows creating dedicated circuit just for closet.
• More complex, but allows higher capacities.
• Often easier in new construction.

Using Existing Lights

• If closet has light fixture, the wiring may be able to be extended down to new outlet.
• Only works if light is not at max capacity.
• May require updating wiring with higher capacity cables.

Step-by-Step Installation

Once you've addressed the above considerations, follow these steps to install the new closet outlet:

1. Turn Off Power

Shut off circuit breaker for the closet area at the main panel. Test wires with non-contact tester before proceeding.

2. Cut Hole for Outlet Box

• Measure and mark location for new outlet box.
• Use drywall saw to cut open hole in wall. Make hole 1/2" larger than box dimensions.

3. Fish Wires

• Run new or existing wires from power source through walls and ceiling into outlet box location.
• Use fish tape to pull wires through finished walls. Use staples to secure.

4. Install Outlet Box

• Secure outlet box into wall opening. Make sure it is level and flush with finished wall surface.
• Leave at least 6" of extra wire.

5. Connect Wires

• Strip wires and connect to outlet using screw terminals or push-in connectors.
• Follow proper polarity - hot, neutral, ground.

6. Install Outlet

• Secure outlet into box with long securing screws.
• Test for power before finishing drywall.

7. Cover Box & Finish Wall

• Mount drywall or paneling over box opening. Cut out just for outlet flush plate.
• Install wall plate cover once painting/finishing is complete.

And that covers the major steps involved in safely and properly adding an electrical outlet to an existing or new closet. Always get necessary permits and have work inspected for safety and compliance with local electrical codes. Let me know if you have any other specific questions!