Is it easy to add electrical outlets near exsisting outlets?
by
Melanie K
+5
I find there aren't nearly enough outlets in my house, especially in and around my bathroom. I would like to add a few more. I just don't know if this would require addition wiring or if we can use the wiring we currently have and just add the outlets.
8 answers
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I always recommend hiring a pro for electric work, and you may have to get a permit to do any electric work on your house. Having said that, you should be able to add outlets, but it will involve adding wires. The easiest way might be to use surface channels for wires, as you often see in offices (the hard cases around wiring that runs between outlets), and connect from an existing outlet. I would say that if you have never done any electrical work before, this might be something to leave to the pros. Good luck.
3po3
on Jan 21, 2012
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Its not necessary easy, but it can be done with some effort. If your just adding these outlets so you do not need to unplug and replug stuff in to use them, then the current power that is supplied to the existing outlet will be fine. If your adding additional outlets so two can use the blow dryer at the same time, you might want to consider adding a new circuit from the panel. Depending on your skill set this can be something a home owner can do. But with the bathroom involved and water etc. You might want to consider Steve G's advice and seek the assistance of a local electrical contractor. Perhaps you can work with him or her to cut the cost. Perhaps with you running the wires and let them wire the outlets? What determines if the job is easy or not is how the room is framed, if there is access above from an attic, or below from an unfinished basement. You need to be able to sink a wire down or push one up to get the new outlet location fed. If there are cats in the walls, or other blockages this can be a bit tricky. If you think you want to proceed with this. Let us know and we will provide you with some ideas on how to fish wires inside of walls.
Woodbridge Environmental Tiptophouse.com
on Jan 21, 2012
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Thank you, this was very helpful. I will definelty get professional help it's just good to know it's possible before I go through the motion of finding someone. Again thank you so much.
Melanie K
on Jan 21, 2012
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Melanie, I am adding outlets to my home as I type right now, well actually the electrician is doing it and adding lights to all my closets, as Steve stated it is rather easy to do, but I leave ALL electrical work to the pros
Faidra at CA Global Inc
on Jan 22, 2012
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Swapping a 2 plug recpt...with a 4 plug one is pretty painless. but like Woodbridge said...this will work for not having to plug / unplug....if you need more juice...pulling a whole new circuit from the panel is a pretty huge project.
KMS Woodworks
on Jan 22, 2012
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I never even thought of making the exsisting 2 plug to a 4, that would definetly solve many problems.
Melanie K
on Jan 22, 2012
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Been there done that...depending on the "box" this can often be done in less than an hour.
KMS Woodworks
on Jan 22, 2012
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You may well be able to handle this...but it's best left to an electrician. There are too many potential problems with wiring that it's really not worth the risk to a homeowner to tackle these types of improvements. Unless you're changing light fixtures or simple outlet or switches....best to leave it to the pro's!
HandyANDY - Handyman & All Repairs, LLC
on Jan 23, 2012
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