Adding An Outlet To A Circuit

To add a new outlet to a group of receptacles already in place splice the new wires to one set of wires on one of the existing outlets.

Adding an outlet to a circuit. You ll need wire cutters a utility knife a flat head screwdriver electrical wires a new outlet and screws for this project. Adding an electrical outlet in the middle of a run is possible if you have basic electrical wiring knowledge and a few tools. Wiring a new outlet to another outlet. Don t make matters worse by adding yet another outlet to the circuit electrical codes restrict the number of lights or electrical outlets that can be connected to one circuit.

Typically you can have no more than eight lights or electrical outlets on a 15 amp circuit. Most garages have only one circuit in them. Adding outlets just for convenience purposes for use for only short periods should cause no problem though. There are 2 basic ways to install a new electrical outlet running electrical wiring from a circuit breaker to the new location or from another outlet in the same room.

Before tapping into an existing circuit to add power for an outlet the line must be verified that it is in fact an outlet circuit and not a line use for switching a light fixture or similar application. Safety precautions should be taken however. The biggest potential problem will be overloading the circuit. When an outlet receptacle falls in the middle of a circuit run rather than at the end there are generally two cables in the outlet box.

If a switch or outlet is on a circuit that often blows its breaker or fuse. Most homes have only a couple of outdoor outlets electrical receptacles but adding one can be easier than you might think. Instead of installing a new circuit for the outlet you may be able to tap into an interior outlet on an existing circuit within the home. One cable is the incoming power source entering the box from one side while a second cable exits the box to continue onward to downstream locations on the circuit.

Check to make sure the wiring will support an outlet. Adding a dozen outlets and using them all at the same time could overload the circuit.