How To Install A Light Switch In An Existing Wall

Adding an electrical box to your existing wall for a switch or outlet is easy when you have the right materials and know a few tricks.

How to install a light switch in an existing wall.

Twist the wire nut onto the three wires to secure them. Turn the power back on and use a noncontact voltage tester to locate the hot wire. Wiring a new switch and light from an outlet in this diagram power is taken from an existing wall outlet for a new switch and light fixture. Start the light fixture installation project by turning the power off at the main electrical panel unscrewing the switch and pull it out the switch.

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. From the switch new 2 wire cable is run to the new light location. Remove the cover plate from the existing light switch. Unscrew the wire nut holding the two white wires together.

Unscrew the switch cover with a screwdriver remove it and unscrew the switch from the electrical box in the wall. Strip the last one inch of your new black wire and place all three black wires together. See the video above for more specific instructions. This project guide will walk you through the process of installing the switch including wiring both the switch and the fan.

And you don t have to remove any drywall except for the box s cutout itself. Pull the switch from the box and loosen the terminal screws slipping the circuit. Shop all lighting now. Remove the two 6 32 screws securing the switch in the box.

The switch comes first in the new part of the circuit and new 2 wire cable is run to it from the outlet.