[jchoo]

I want to add a exhaust fan with a switch to control it in my basement washroom. Currently I've got a light, switch & outlet on this breaker all working properly. Nothing else tied in. How do I tie this fan & switch into what I've got set up?

[creahands]

Let us know where power from breaker panel is coming into bathroom and we can help u.

Tell us how many wires are in light box, switch box and outlet box and how they are configured.

With this info can help

Chuck

[jchoo]

I've got power coming into the light box, then pwr to the light switch, then to outlet. Therefore I've got two wires in each.

[Missouri Bound]

Would you consider replacing the current light with a fan/light combination? This would solve your wiring issue and when the light is on, the fan could be on with it.

[jchoo]

No, but here's a question for you. If I go with a fan/light combination, can only the light go on?

[Missouri Bound]

Yes, most definetely. There is provision inside the wiring compartment on the light to switch one or both. You just need another switch and wire to make them work independently.

[jchoo]

Oh, okay. I'll check it out. On my original question, what do you suggest?

[Missouri Bound]

In order to add a second switch where the existing one is you will need an additional wire. From what you describe you have power to the light, then a switch leg. Any chance this is in conduit, or is it cable? You already have the neutral to the light if the power comes in there. So the hot wire, which comes into the switch now will be utilized to power both the fan and light; you will use that wire to power both switches, then add a wire for the second switch to contol the other load (fan or light). Got it?

[jchoo]

Sorry, I'm lost. Anyway I can incl a sketch here to show you what I've got

[jchoo]

See attached sketch

[donf]

Your circuit design is seriously flawed.

First and foremost, a switch does not use the "White" neutral conductor unless it has a pilot light

A better way to create this circuit is to tie Blk to Blk at the power outlet. Wht. To Wht.

Feed the receptacle from the power source.

From the receptacle, pigtail a black to black and a white to white cable to the switch.

Connect the black feed from the receptacle to the bottom of the switch. Bypass the white (neutral around the switch.

Now connect the other end of the black conductor to the top of the switch.

Continue the run to the light. Black to Black and White to White.

Do not forget to connect the grounding conductor through the entire circuit.