How To Install A Light Switch In A Finished Wall

Install the wall plate.

How to install a light switch in a finished wall.

When you need to add an outlet or switch in an existing wall you need to use a special electrical box called an old work box an old work electrical box may be metal or plastic and is specially designed to be installed in an existing wall where it has no support other than the wall itself. Select boxes that meet local codes. Tighten the mounting screws to secure the switch to the wall box. Connect the hot wire to the side of the double switch that has the jumper tab between the terminals photo 7.

Connect the white neutral wires with a wire connector. Mark this wire black. Cover with a switch plate. Install a piece of the 12 3 with ground romex between the original switch location laying it in the notches you made in the studs running it up through wall to the second switches location.

To wire the ceiling fixture to the new wall switch first connect the copper grounding wire to the fixture. Connect the wires as shown in figure a. Place switch in the wall box. If the drywall or plaster is damaged cut a larger hole and install a box that attaches directly to a stud or joist.

For a ceiling fan or a heavy light fixture buy a fixture box that attaches to a fan rated brace. Twist and connect wires. Gently bend the wires and push the switch into the wall box. Complete the project by mounting the light fixture screwing the switch to the box and installing the cover plate.

White to white black to black and copper to copper. After removing the black wire to the fixture s lead splice it into the new white wire. Restore power and test the switch. To ensure that frequently used switches last longer purchase a spec rated or commercial device.

Twist a plastic wire cap onto each connection. Install globes and bulbs.