Wiring Diagrams to Add a Receptacle Outlet

This page contains wiring diagrams for adding a receptacle outlet to an existing circuit. The source for the new outlets here can be taken at a light fixture or a light switch with an always–hot wire.

Note: The ground wire in these circuits should be spliced to each device and outlet box that has a metal grounding terminal. These diagrams illustrate 15 amp circuits and 14/2 awg cable, however, existing lighting and receptacles may be on 15, or 20 amps circuits. When working with 20 amp circuits use 12 awg cable and 20 amp switches and receptacles.

Add a Receptacle Outlet from a Light Fixture

This circuit diagram shows the wiring for a new receptacle outlet connected at a light fixture. The source at the fixture is always hot and a switch loop controls the light. New 14/2 cable runs from the fixture box to the new receptacle and the source hot, neutral and ground are splice to it and a short jumper wire to connect back to the light fixture.

Add an Outlet from a Light Switch

This diagram shows the wiring for a new receptacle outlet added from a light switch. The switch must have an always–hot wire for the source and a neutral wire must be present for the return path. The hot source is spliced to a jumper wire back to the switch and to a new 14/2 cable running to the new outlet. The neutral is spliced in the switch box to both, the existing light, and the cable to the new receptacle.