Electrical wiring can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. However, with a little instruction, you can learn how to run switch and outlet with 2 wire Romex, which is a common type of electrical cable used in residential construction. This article will provide step-by-step instructions on how to complete this task safely and effectively.
First, you’ll need to gather the necessary materials. These include 2 wire Romex cable, a switch, an outlet, a junction box, wire nuts, and electrical tape. Once you have all of your materials, you can begin the wiring process. Start by cutting the Romex cable to the desired length. Then, strip the insulation off the ends of the cable. Next, connect the black wire from the Romex cable to the brass terminal on the switch. Connect the white wire from the Romex cable to the silver terminal on the switch. Finally, connect the green or bare copper wire from the Romex cable to the ground screw on the switch.
Once the switch is wired, you can connect the outlet. Start by connecting the black wire from the Romex cable to the brass terminal on the outlet. Connect the white wire from the Romex cable to the silver terminal on the outlet. Finally, connect the green or bare copper wire from the Romex cable to the ground screw on the outlet. Once the outlet is wired, you can install it in the junction box and secure it with the screws. Finally, turn on the power and test the switch and outlet to make sure they are working properly.
Test the Circuit
Step 6: Turn Off the Power
Before beginning any electrical work, it is crucial to turn off the power to the circuit you will be working on. Locate the circuit breaker panel and identify the breaker that controls the power to the area where you will be installing the switch and outlet. Flip the breaker to the “OFF” position to cut off the electricity.
Step 7: Verify the Circuit is Off
To ensure the power is completely off, use a non-contact voltage tester. Touch the tester to the wires you will be working with. If the tester does not light up, it confirms that the power is off.
Step 8: Identifying the Hot, Neutral, and Ground Wires
To install the switch and outlet correctly, you need to identify the hot, neutral, and ground wires. Most commonly, black wires indicate the hot wires, white wires denote the neutral wires, and green or bare copper wires represent the ground wires. However, it’s essential to double-check the wire colors in your specific situation using a multimeter to confirm their function.
For added clarity, here’s a table summarizing the typical wire colors and their corresponding functions:
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| Black | Hot |
| White | Neutral |
| Green or Bare Copper | Ground |
Install Faceplates and Covers
Once the switch and outlet are mounted in the electrical box, the final step is to install the faceplates and covers.
Installing the Switch Faceplate
- Align the faceplate over the switch with the screw holes.
- Secure the faceplate using the screws provided.
- Check that the switch operates smoothly and the faceplate is flush with the wall.
Installing the Outlet Cover
- Insert the outlet cover into the box opening.
- Align the screw holes and secure the cover with the screws provided.
- Make sure the outlet is oriented correctly and the cover is flush with the wall.
Tips for Installing Faceplates and Covers
- Use a screwdriver that fits the screw size properly to avoid stripping the threads.
- Do not overtighten the screws, as this can damage the faceplate or cover.
- If the faceplate or cover does not fit snugly, use a small washer or shim to fill the gap.
| Faceplate/Cover Type | Screw Type |
|---|---|
| Standard Single Gang | #6 or #8 Pan Head |
| Standard Double Gang | #8 or #10 Pan Head |
| Decora Style | #6 or #8 Oval Head |
| GFCI Outlet | #6 or #8 Pan Head |
How to Run Switch and Outlet with 2-Wire Romex
Running a switch and outlet with 2-wire Romex requires a different approach than when using 3-wire Romex. 2-wire Romex contains only a hot wire, a neutral wire, and a ground wire. There is no dedicated switch leg wire, so you must create one by using the neutral wire as a switch leg. This method is known as a “bootleg ground” and should only be used in older homes where grounding is not required.
To run a switch and outlet with 2-wire Romex, follow these steps:
- Turn off the power to the circuit at the breaker panel.
- Remove the cover plate from the existing outlet box.
- Disconnect the wires from the outlet.
- Connect the black wire from the Romex to the brass terminal on the outlet.
- Connect the white wire from the Romex to the silver terminal on the outlet.
- Connect the ground wire from the Romex to the green terminal on the outlet.
- Push the outlet back into the outlet box and secure it with screws.
- Turn the power back on at the breaker panel.
- Test the outlet to ensure it is working properly.
- Install a switch in the desired location.
- Connect the black wire from the Romex to the brass terminal on the switch.
- Connect the white wire from the Romex to the silver terminal on the switch.
- Connect the ground wire from the Romex to the green terminal on the switch.
- Secure the switch to the electrical box with screws.
- Install a cover plate on the switch.
- Test the switch and outlet to ensure they are working properly.
People Also Ask
Why is it important to use a "bootleg ground" when running a switch and outlet with 2-wire Romex?
A “bootleg ground” is used when running a switch and outlet with 2-wire Romex because there is no dedicated switch leg wire. The neutral wire is used as a switch leg instead, which allows the switch to control the flow of electricity to the outlet.
Is it safe to use a "bootleg ground"?
Using a “bootleg ground” is not ideal, but it is a common practice in older homes where grounding is not required. However, it is important to note that using a “bootleg ground” does not provide the same level of protection as a dedicated ground wire.
What are the dangers of using a "bootleg ground"?
The main danger of using a “bootleg ground” is that it can create a shock hazard. If the neutral wire is accidentally disconnected, the outlet can become energized and pose a risk of electric shock.
Is there a better way to run a switch and outlet with 2-wire Romex?
The best way to run a switch and outlet with 2-wire Romex is to install a grounding outlet. A grounding outlet has a third hole for the ground wire. This provides a safe and proper path for the ground wire, eliminating the need for a “bootleg ground.”
