Lighting, Light Fixtures, Ceiling and Exhaust Fans - adding a receptacle
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bradth27
11-13-07, 07:49 AM
I recently bought an old house, and am now finding the little "issues" involved... nothing major, thank goodness.
So I have done a few projects, but always stayed away from electricity. However, I have an issue that I need to fix.
I have a hallway that is quite dark - and I would like to add a plug for a nightlight in there. There are no receptacles in there at this time. However, there's a good spot in the middle of the hallway for one, and on the other side of the wall there is a light switch for the bedroom.
Can I simply tie into this receptacle, drop down a few feet and add a plug in the hallway?
So I have done a few projects, but always stayed away from electricity. However, I have an issue that I need to fix.
I have a hallway that is quite dark - and I would like to add a plug for a nightlight in there. There are no receptacles in there at this time. However, there's a good spot in the middle of the hallway for one, and on the other side of the wall there is a light switch for the bedroom.
Can I simply tie into this receptacle, drop down a few feet and add a plug in the hallway?
racraft
11-13-07, 08:04 AM
Maybe, maybe not.
Electrically this will only work if full power goes through the switch. If it is a switch loop then you do not have full power available. You will have to open the switch box and investigate. What cables are present, what wires are in those cables, and how are those wires connected to anything (another wire, the switch, etc.).
Legally (according to code) you can only do this if the circuit is properly grounded and if it does not serve certain locations in your house. Telling us the wiring will help us determine if the circuit is properly grounded. You need to tell us everything in the house on this circuit.
If you don't know what is on this circuit then take the time to figure it out, along with that what is on EVERY circuit in your house. You should already know this, as you should have done it shortly after moving in. The information is invaluable when a problem occurs, and under the right circumstances the information could save your life.
Electrically this will only work if full power goes through the switch. If it is a switch loop then you do not have full power available. You will have to open the switch box and investigate. What cables are present, what wires are in those cables, and how are those wires connected to anything (another wire, the switch, etc.).
Legally (according to code) you can only do this if the circuit is properly grounded and if it does not serve certain locations in your house. Telling us the wiring will help us determine if the circuit is properly grounded. You need to tell us everything in the house on this circuit.
If you don't know what is on this circuit then take the time to figure it out, along with that what is on EVERY circuit in your house. You should already know this, as you should have done it shortly after moving in. The information is invaluable when a problem occurs, and under the right circumstances the information could save your life.