In fact, the answer to the question of how to assemble the socket is not too difficult, but there are points that you need to know to stay safe and comply with the requirements of the programmed code. This article is built on the opinions of many electricians who share their tips and handy tricks. They will help you deal with the scenarios for the correct connection.
Sawing starter holes
For the first step in the question of how to assemble the outlet, you will need a tool such as a screwdriver.
To solve this problem, plasterboard saws are often used, they are also often called hacksaws. They can be used to pierce the wall to make a hole. But experts have found that less damage occurs when several holes are made in opposite corners of the starter motor with a skinny flat-head screwdriver. Of course, when you need to cut something, it is better to do it with a saw. But cutting too aggressively cancause the drywall to break on the back side, which will significantly weaken it. It is important to stay within the lines. Too big a hole will be unusable. If the hole is small, you can cut the edges with a utility knife.
Find the cavity
This is the second step in the question of how to assemble the outlet.
When power needs to be pulled from an unfinished basement, an easy way to figure out where to drill a hole for new cable is to drill a small "finder" hole near the base of the wall and slide a long wire coat hanger through. Many electricians use wire cutters to cut at 45 degrees and actually use the cutting end to drill. So the hanger will go through carpeting, hardwood floors and even drywall. If you need to do the same work, but from the attic, you need to stretch the wire, and then lower it down and measure about 9-10 centimeters. This is where you need to drill a new hole.
The same trick works in any room, even in the same attic. Just need to drill a hole where the wall crosses the ceiling. Since there is no trim, it is necessary to measure the distance from the hanger only 5 centimeters. Of course, you can use ordinary wire, cutting off the required length from it. But please note that plastic hangers will not work!
Cable stripping
The third step in the question of how to assemble a socket is to prepare materials before they arehood.
It's much easier to strip the sheath off the cables before installing the box. Make sure that at least 6 millimeters of protection is covered inside, behind the clip. And you also need to leave at least 15 centimeters in the device. Measure from the front edge of the box opening. After installation, you need to bend the end of the wires, using the hole on the device to strip them.
Cutting holes
The fourth step in the question of how to assemble sockets. The fork at this point needs to be inspected. It is important that no burning is present on it, and the wires are not tangled.
The rotary tool is a great, safe way to cut through tiles. It is necessary to set a small depth of the cutting element to avoid falling into plumbing or wires into the wall cavity. Where possible, grout lines should be used for both sides of the hole because they are much easier to cut through. The next step is to drill launch holes in opposite corners. For this, a glass and tile tool is suitable.
Electrical box
If the only question is how to properly assemble the outlet, then you should immediately proceed to this fifth step.
There are several types of boxes that are sometimes called remanufactured. Some are easier to find than others (but all are available online), while others are easier to install and more reliable (details below). Instead of being nailed to a nail, the boxes are attached to drywall. Here are some of the most commonstyles:
- Fiberglass Rigid Box is a favorite of many contractors, although it is slightly more expensive. They love it because the strong clamping system is much more secure than the cheaper models. These boxes are not always available in malls, but you can find them in electrical stores. This model works well, especially if the socket is widely used, as it enhances protection.
- The PVC box is the least expensive and most readily available, but it also appears to be the most fragile on the market. Some pros have complained that the clamping tabs are not strong enough and that the screws are pushing the plastic back.
- Finally, fiberglass box is a good choice. The models are reasonably priced, available in many malls, and are stronger than the PVC version.
Foldable wires at the back of the electrical box
How to assemble a socket with grounding? It should be noted here that all subsequent steps assume the presence of this parameter.
Many electricians connect all the wires together and then run short individual cords (pigtails) to the outlet. They also ensure that the rest of the circuit stays energized below the ceiling even if that outlet fails. You need to try to carefully fold all the wires and insert them into the back of the box. Reckless driving of cords into an overcrowded box can result in loose connections and damage to the insulation. Fire may eventually occur.
Two wires with different sizes
To answer the question of how to assemble a double socket, it is worth noting that the procedure remains the same, only the number of cords increases. Therefore, you should carefully monitor each step. And it's best to mark each end with a number.
If, when assembling a double socket, wires are pulled from the circuit and there is a 12-gauge cord among them, it is not necessary to install the material of the 14th connector in a new socket or vice versa. It must be connected with the same wire as the source. The same scheme will be relevant for answering the question of how to assemble triple sockets.
Electrical box finishing support
Many electricians prefer to work with boxes with metal flanges. They provide more support than drop-wing boxes. The disadvantage of them is that they are not designed for thicker walls. Therefore, when adding wires to drywall with a large sheathing, it is recommended to cut about 20 millimeters from both metal flanges with fairing shears before installation. Straight cuts must be made, otherwise the box will be bent in the hole.
Socket included with bare frame
It must be understood that when choosing a circuit to add material to, the ease of connecting the wire is likely to be the most important factor. Here are some acceptable options.
- General purpose outlets in residential areas, attics and unfinished basements.
- Places for switchesand lighting fixtures where unswitched 120-volt power is available.
- Smoke detector locations.
It is worth noting that you cannot simply add to any circuit in the house. Here are some schemes to avoid.
- Dedicated kitchen, bathroom and laundry room.
- Separate circuits for electrical appliances such as garbage trucks, refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers and trash compactors.
- Diagrams for special tools such as microwave ovens.
- Box with too many wires.
Marked switch
When power is supplied from a source other than an outlet (such as a light fixture or smoke detector), the new cable and socket must be protected from arcing. If there are no devices at the input where this type could be installed, then there is no other choice but to protect the entire circuit by installing a circuit breaker on the panel.
Two electrical boxes connected to each other
This method will also be the answer to the question of how to assemble three sockets.
New electrical codes require arc fault protection for all branch circuits powering sockets, switches, lights, smoke detectors, etc. That is, in all areas of the home except bathrooms, storage areas and garages. Fault circuit breakers and socket outlets are designed to detect dangerous, abnormal sparking in branched circuits and cut off power before starting.fire.
When an existing socket saturates for a new one, the electrical code requires protection for both wires. The easiest way to do this is to install a socket on the first device in the chain. The connector will provide outlet protection for most existing and new extended wiring. This tip also allows you to answer the question of how to assemble an outlet block.
Standard socket and protected
Resistant sockets are designed to prevent metal objects from entering. Tamper-resistant receptacles are the safest device available today in all indoor and outdoor locations for residential units.
By eliminating those ugly and often dangerous extension cords, you can quickly and easily add a new outlet without tearing up the wall. The main condition is that you must have at least one nest in the room. No extra holes and messy fixes and repaints. The procedure allows you to place the TV against a wall that did not have an outlet.
Work Safely
Before proceeding with any part of this project, it is necessary to turn off the power to the circuit on the main electrical panel by disconnecting the breaker or removing the fuse.
Use a voltage tester on all cords before touching bare wires or terminals on a switch or outlet.
If the wiring is old, with fabric insulation, you need to contact an electrician to recommend safeconnections. This outlet usually has no ground wire, and it's hard to tell hot from neutral because they're both covered in black insulation.
