View Full Version : Removing an electrical outlet
inchitown
Apr 25, 2008, 06:18 AM
I am removing a wall which has an electrical outlet, is this something I can remove on my own? The wiring runs up through my ceiling which I have access to from the attic.
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
RickJ
Apr 25, 2008, 06:24 AM
Yes, it's an easy removal on your own. Shut off the electric, unhook the outlet, pull the wire up into your attic then use wire nuts to cap the wires.
The wall removal, of course, is another story. If it's a load bearing wall, I hope you are doing a temporary wall on each side of it before removing it ;)
Washington1
Apr 25, 2008, 08:31 AM
Yes, it's an easy removal on your own. Shut off the electric, unhook the outlet, pull the wire up into your attic then use wire nuts to cap the wires.
Rickj,
Is that really all you would do-- Turn off the power, cap the wires, and leave it in the attic? I agree with turning the power off. (Note: Turn off power anytime you are working with electricity, then check to make sure the power is indeed off).
-If you plan to re-use cable, and the wire is too short to serve the load, you will need:
1. Junction box
2. Blank Face plate
3. Wire
4. Wirenuts
If no further plans for the wire, you will need:
1. Junction box
2. Blank Face plate
3. Wirenuts
If no further plans for the wire, you can:
1. Trace the wire back to its serving point, and diconnect it from the circuit
Note: This will take some level of experience
If you have two wires, then the situation changes.
What's common in your materials list: Electrical box and Face Plate
Now, seeing that we have no idea on what year your conductor was installed, we are still on the fence with what I listed above.
****The above also assumes the existing wire cannot reach another electrical box in a living space below the attic****
RickJ
Apr 25, 2008, 08:33 AM
Washington, No, I did not say just leave it there :) I was only answering the question asked.
inchitown, Washington has provided excellent additional info you should consider. ;)
Washington1
Apr 25, 2008, 08:46 AM
Just to add: DIY doesn't mean you can overlook local, and national codes----noting that some local codes require you to pull a permit for any (and all) electrical work.
Washington1
Apr 25, 2008, 08:47 AM
Washington, No, I did not say just leave it there :) I was only answering the question asked.
inchitown, Washington has provided excellent additional info you should consider. ;)
I see.:eek: :D
ballengerb1
Apr 25, 2008, 08:48 AM
I also agree with Rick regarding the wall itself. Have you determined if it is lead bearing or not, it makes a big difference. I realize that this is not your primary question but it sure needs to be considered. When you say wall switch with an outlet are you describing two separate boxes and is the outlet in the wall that you plan to remove?