Throughout your home, you will have different electrical needs. As a result, you might find yourself with a room that has switches in a spot where an outlet would be far more practical. If you’re not a trained electrician, it’s easy not to know what you can and can’t do when it comes to the electricity in your home.
Can a Light Switch Be Converted to an Outlet?
Yes, you can convert a light switch to an electrical outlet. However, because outlets and light switches have different functions, the wiring for one or the other will be different enough that you should trust a licensed electrician, such as Mr. Electric, to handle the project for you.
How an Electrician Will Change a Switch into an Outlet
Your first two choices are deciding whether to keep the switch and how you want the new outlet to function. Although you might not often use the existing light switch and think an outlet would better suit your needs, totally removing the light switch may not be the best course of action. Luckily, you don’t have to decide between outlet or switch, as you have options that will give you both outlets and switches. You can have your electrician wire the outlet so that the switch controls it, or the outlet can operate independently of the switch.
Anything related to electrical wiring is not a good candidate for a DIY home project. The inherent danger of working with electricity and the possibility of wiring an outlet incorrectly are not worth the risks. Here’s how your local Mr. Electric would install an outlet where your light switch is:
- Identify which circuit the switch is on and turn off the power supply to that circuit to prevent electrocution.
- Remove the switch from the wall and label the wires connected to it. The general rule for electrical wire color codes is that the red and black wires will be the live wires while a white wire will be neutral, but it’s possible that another color may be used.
- Connect the wires to the proper terminals on the outlet. All wires must be attached correctly for the switch to work properly. This is something that a trained professional can do for you. A potential problem could arise if the person who originally installed the switch connected the wires incorrectly; if you replicate what was done previously, you will end up with the same faulty wiring job.
Related Topic: 6 Types of Electrical Outlet Upgrades
What Can Go Wrong When Turning a Light Switch into an Outlet?
Electricity makes life easier and more convenient, but wiring done wrong can lead to tragic consequences. Take a second to consider these common negative outcomes of DIY conversions before trying to convert your light switch to an outlet.
- A combination light switch/outlet not always being on. If you’re not trying to fully replace a light switch with an outlet, a combo light switch and outlet can help give you the best of both worlds. However, if you don’t properly wire this fixture, you’ll end up with an outlet that only turns on with the switch, which might defeat the purpose of having both.
- Accidentally reversing the hot wires and the neutral wire. This is one of the most dangerous outcomes you might come across. When you replace a light switch with an outlet and don’t connect the wires properly, you can create shock hazards.
Related Topic: Avoid These Dangerous DIY Home Electrical Repairs
Electricians Who Can Help You Change Your Switch to an Outlet
If you’re looking to increase the number of outlets in a room, converting your light switch to an outlet can be a great solution. But messing with electrical wiring and outlets can be a dangerous task, even if you’re an experienced DIYer. To ensure your electrical work is done properly and safely, contact the electrical pros at your local Mr. Electric. Schedule an appointment or call us today.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Mr. Electric is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact the Mr. Electric location nearest you for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.
FAQs About Converting A Light Switch To An Outlet
The safety of your business, customers, and staff are the top priority of every Mr. Electric service professional. Our safety-first commitment to solving your electrical issues includes a meticulous attention to detail on every job. Our commitment also includes using our years of experience to answer your questions. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about converting a light switch to an outlet.
What tools and materials do I need to convert a light switch to an outlet?
You’ll typically need a voltage tester, wire strippers, a new outlet, and a cover plate for a light switch conversion. However, working with live wiring is risky, and even one mistake can cause a short circuit or fire hazard. In most cases, professional outlet installation is the safest way to convert a light switch to an outlet.
How do I know if my circuit can support an outlet?
You’ll need to calculate the circuit’s capacity and current load to determine if it can support an additional outlet.
- Find the amperage rating. Every circuit breaker should be labeled with an amperage rating, indicating the total current capacity (e.g., 15A).
- Convert the amperage to wattage. Multiply amps by voltage (120V in most homes) to find the wattage.
- Stick to the 80% rule. Multiply the wattage by 0.8. This gives you 80% of the circuit’s total capacity, allowing a safety buffer to avoid overloading the circuit.
- Determine the existing load. “Load” refers to how much power the circuit is currently drawing. Calculate the total wattage of any devices on the circuit using a power meter.
- Estimate the future load. Add the estimated wattage of any devices you may plug into the new outlet to the current load. If it exceeds 80% of the circuit’s capacity, you may risk overloading the circuit.
If the circuit is already near capacity, adding an outlet may cause overloading, and a dedicated circuit might be necessary. Overloading a circuit increases the risk of electrical fire, so it’s best to consult a professional electrician before adding an outlet to an existing circuit.
Is it safe to replace a light switch with an outlet?
Converting a light switch to an outlet is safe only if the wiring and circuit support it. Some switches don’t have a neutral wire, which is necessary for an outlet to function properly. Attempting a DIY light switch conversion can increase your risk of improper wiring and electrical hazards. Request assistance from a professional electrician to ensure your switch is converted safely and correctly.
Can I install a GFCI outlet where a light switch was?
Yes, but GFCI outlets require proper grounding. If your current wiring isn’t up to code, you may need electrical wiring upgrades. A professional electrician can install GFCI outlets correctly to protect you from electrical shocks and meet code requirements.
Will I need to update my electrical panel when converting a switch to an outlet?
Possibly. If your panel is outdated or near capacity, adding an outlet could overload it. An electric panel upgrade ensures your home’s electrical system remains safe and reliable.
What are common mistakes when converting a light switch to an outlet?
Some common mistakes when replacing a light switch with an outlet include:
- Not checking for a neutral wire
- Overloading the circuit
- Failing to install a GFCI outlet in required locations
- Ignoring local electrical code
DIY mistakes can lead to costly repairs or electrical hazards, so be sure to consult a professional electrician to ensure your safety.
How long does it take to convert a light switch to an outlet?
A professional can complete an outlet conversion in about an hour, depending on the wiring setup. DIY attempts can take longer and may result in costly mistakes.
