How To Install Light Switch In Existing Wall

You ll need a noncontact voltage detector a wire stripping tool a screwdriver and a drywall saw.

How to install light switch in existing wall.

If the wall is heavily insulated push conduit through the insulation and then feed wires or cable through the conduit. In the tutorial how to install an electrical box in an existing wall we provide detailed photo rich how to instructions on easily installing the old work electrical box. Here s how to install a wall mounted light directly above a light switch. I really don t know hardly anything about electricity.

Yet here i am adding a switch to an existing light. Gently bend the wires and push the switch into the wall box. To add an outlet to a light switch you start by making a pigtail using the hot wire the wire going to the fixture controlled by the switch and a third length of wire. Restore power and test the switch.

If i can do it so can you. You then splice all the white wires and all the ground wires in the switch box together. Install the wall plate. This project requires an understanding of how a switch is wired and a few basic tools.

Adding a wall switch to a ceiling fixture can be done in a matter of hours. Place switch in the wall box. Hook up the outlet as you normally would. To ensure that frequently used switches last longer purchase a spec rated or commercial device.

Tighten the mounting screws to secure the switch to the wall box. Cover with a switch plate. Since the existing light is already connected to the switch and you are not adding a light switch most of the wiring you need will be present in the wall or ceiling.