How do I extend an existing electrical outlet?

Extending an existing electrical outlet allows you to add more outlets without running new wiring through your walls. This can be useful if you find yourself needing more outlets in a particular area for lamps, electronics, or appliances. With some basic tools and materials, extending an outlet is a straightforward do-it-yourself project for most homeowners.

In this article, we’ll walk through the entire process step-by-step. We’ll cover how to plan your project, what materials and tools you’ll need, how to do the wiring, and how to install the new outlet safely. We’ll also provide tips for troubleshooting any issues that come up.

By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to confidently extend an electrical outlet on your own. So let’s get started!

Planning Your Electrical Outlet Extension Project

Before you get to the wiring, take some time to plan your project. This will help ensure you have everything you need and that the installation goes smoothly. Here are some planning tips:

– Decide where you want to locate the new outlet. Consider how furniture is arranged and where you need power. Also look at where existing outlets and wiring are located.

– Determine if you’ll be extending from an existing outlet, or tapping power from a light fixture. Extending from an outlet is easier.

– Examine the existing wiring to see if it’s 15 amp or 20 amp. Know this for buying the correct new outlet.

– Decide if you want the outlet to be switched or constant power. Switched outlets can be turned on/off with a light switch.

– Make sure the circuit you’re extending has capacity for an additional outlet and isn’t overloaded. Check this at your electrical panel.

– Turn off the power at the panel before starting any work. Use a non-contact voltage tester to be sure.

– Gather all necessary materials and tools before starting (covered next).

– Consider your skill level. Extending an outlet is intermediate electrical work. If you’re unsure, hire an electrician.

Taking the time for careful planning will pay off later in the project. Now let’s look at the supplies you’ll need.

Materials and Tools Needed

Extending an outlet requires several basic electrical supplies. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

Materials

• Electrical boxes – Plastic or metal. Match existing boxes.
• NM electrical wire (14 or 12 gauge for 15/20 amp)
• Wire connectors
• Outlet – 15 amp or 20 amp to match circuit
• Wall plate
• Electrical tape
• Anti-oxidant joint compound
• Screws for mounting the outlet

Tools

• Voltage tester
• Phillips screwdriver
• Flat head screwdriver
• Wire strippers
• Needle nose pliers
• Drywall saw
• Stud finder
• Drill with hole saw bit (for new boxes)
• Hammer
• Keyhole saw (for cutting drywall)
• GFCI tester

Many of these supplies are available at your local home improvement or hardware store. It’s okay to purchase items individually, but outlet kits with all the materials in one box are also available.

For safety, be sure to get the right size wire for the amperage circuit, and only use outlet boxes listed for your type of wall construction. GFCI outlets provide protection from shocks in damp areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

Okay, with your supplies gathered and the power turned off, it’s time to get to work.

Extending an Electrical Outlet Step-by-Step

Extending an outlet involves running new NM electrical cable from the existing outlet to the location of the new outlet. Follow these steps:

1. Turn Off Power and Test

Double check that the power is off at the main circuit breaker panel before doing any work. Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm the outlet is dead.

2. Remove the Existing Outlet

Unscrew and gently remove the existing outlet from the electrical box. You’ll see hot and neutral wires attached to screws on the sides of the outlet. Leave these wires in place for now.

3. Plan the New Outlet Location

Decide where you want the new outlet placed. Mark the wall accordingly. Consider height for furniture clearance. Typically outlets are 12-18 inches above baseboards.

4. Cut Access Holes

Use a drywall saw to cut any holes needed to route the new NM cable from the existing box to the new outlet location. Cut access holes in joist bays as needed.

5. Drill Holes for New Box

If adding a new outlet box, use a drill to bore holes for the box tabs. A hole saw attaches to the drill for this. Place the new box in the wall and secure with screws.

6. Run the New Wiring

Run the new NM cable from the existing outlet box through the access holes to the new box. Leave plenty of extra length for connections. Use staples to secure the cable.

7. Connect the Wires

Strip the cable jacket and wires. Connect the new cable’s hot wire to the existing hot wire with a wire connector. Repeat for neutral wires.

8. Connect the New Outlet

Anchor the new outlet in its box. Connect the new cable’s hot and neutral wires to the outlet’s brass and silver screws respectively. Use electrical tape on the wires.

9. Install the New Wall Plate

Mount the outlet into the electrical box, then screw on the new wall plate cover. Make sure connections are tight.

10. Patch and Finish the Walls

Patch any drywall holes or gaps around the boxes with joint compound. Let dry completely then sand smooth. Paint to match existing walls.

11. Turn Power Back On and Test

Turn the circuit breaker back on. Use a GFCI tester and outlet tester to check for correct wiring. Plug in a lamp to verify the new outlet works.

And that covers the key steps for safely extending an electrical outlet! Now let’s look at some tips for troubleshooting problems.

Troubleshooting Electrical Outlet Extensions

If your new outlet doesn’t work, there are a few things you can test:

– Check all wire connections are tight and properly connected. Verify hot to hot and neutral to neutral.

– Make sure the outlet box is properly grounded. There should be a ground wire or connection to the box.

– Check that the outlet is wired to the correct circuit at the breaker box as the existing outlet you extended from.

– Use a multimeter or voltage tester to confirm power is present at the new outlet. If not, trace wires back to find the problem.

– Look for loose or damaged wire causing a short. Replace any NM cable that looks worn or cut.

– Verify the circuit breaker is on and not tripped. Reset any tripped breakers.

– Test outlets downstream in case the issue is farther along the circuit.

– Check for backstabbed wires that should be attached to side screws instead. Backstabs can loosen.

– Try replacing the outlet with a new one in case the original is defective.

– For GFCI outlets, press the “Reset” button if tripped. Test with a GFCI tester.

– Call an electrician if you can’t determine the problem. Improper wiring can be a fire hazard.

Taking the time to carefully diagnose why your new outlet isn’t working can save you from larger problems down the line.

Conclusion

Extending an electrical outlet is a project any competent DIYer can tackle. With good planning, proper materials, and safe wiring technique, you can add new outlets wherever needed around your home. Just be sure to turn off power, follow code requirements, and test connections thoroughly. If in doubt, consult a professional electrician. But with the steps and tips outlined above, you should be able to extend your electrical outlets like a pro!