PDA

View Full Version : How to add light in my garage and an outlet


jfc89
Apr 23, 2012, 10:02 AM
I would like to add light in my garage and an outlet next to the light switch. Can I just wire from the existing light to the new one? And can I just wire from the switch to the outlet?

Thanks

hkstroud
Apr 23, 2012, 02:53 PM
Can I just wire from the existing light to the new one?

Yes, assuming you want both lights to be controlled by the same switch. Run a 2-wire cable from the existing light to the new location.


And can I just wire from the switch to the outlet?

That depends on how things are presently wired. If power comes to the switch and then goes to the light, the answer is yes.

If power comes to the light fixture and a switch leg goes to the switch, the answer is no. When a switch leg is used, power goes to the switch on one wire and returns to the light on the other. Therefore, you have no neutral at the switch. In that case you will have to run a 2-wire cable from the light fixture to the location of the outlet.