How To Install An Outlet and Light Switch Combo | Adding a Receptacle To Any Room

In this video I show how I go about adding a receptacle to any room. No need to cut any holes, add boxes, or run additional wiring. I use a 15-amp tamper resistant residential/commercial duplex switch outlet combo to do this. It is by far the quickest and easiest way to add a receptacle in a room that either doesn't have one or all of the current receptacles are not accessible.
Items and Tools Used In This Video:
Eaton 15 amp Switch/Outlet Combo: amzn.to/3jvJevy
Similar Residential Grade GE Switch/Outlet Combo:amzn.to/3HB9w7o
Decora Leviton Switch/Outlet Combo: amzn.to/3DDzrud
Southwire Wire Strippers: amzn.to/3DDzrud
Klein Lineman Pliers: amzn.to/3la08Ao
Ideal Tan Wire Nuts: amzn.to/3RvHv5Q
Optional Wago 221 Lever Nuts: amzn.to/3jyiXN9
Klein Outlet Tester: amzn.to/3WXjl5q
Klein Voltage Tester: amzn.to/3DFBWMA
Carlon Single Gang Old Work Box: amzn.to/3Y3LuJw
Carlos Single Gang New Work Box: amzn.to/3JHmwLA
Cover Place For Combo Switch: amzn.to/3JHaGRO
Decora Cover Plate: amzn.to/3jvkVOg
ALSO, here is our How To Home Amazon Store, where you can find many of the tools, items, and shirts I use and wear in my videos! amzn.to/3mcqu1E
My KZbin Filming and Editing Gear: amzn.to/3kqqkGl
Thank you for watching and for subscribing. You can support the channel at no cost to you by using one of the above affiliate links. This helps support the channel for new content!
Blessings,
Adam
How To Home assumes no liability for damage or injury. How To Home highly recommends using proper safety procedures and professionals when needed. Our content is for entertainment purposes only. No information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not How To Home. How To Home will not be held liable for any negligent or accidental damage or injury resulting from equipment, tools, electrical, fire, electronics or any items contained in this video. Attempt projects and repairs at your own risk.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

What do you think? Is this easier than cutting a hole in the wall, running wire, and installing a new receptacle?

[@billybrewer2061]

What is going to be plugged into the recepitical? Is to much for the breaker to handle and is it going to keep tripping the breaker. Do you figure out how many watts are being pulled off that line of recepticles before adding another one into that circuit?

[@HowToHomeDIY]

That is all stuff a person would need to do in any install.

[@billybrewer2061]

Would a dyi know to do this is my point, or know how to do this?

[@jlafay2000]

How do you test the neutral wire ? I didn't see you do this, but I wanted to see if mine wasn't going to have any issues, especially because I have seen mice damage in other wires at my girlfriend's house. Her house is tore up. Somebody had done some shady work, and the mice left bare wires in many places. Thank you.

[@ernestop3]

Thanks for sharing, very helpful for me 👍

[@felixmadera3618]

Now I know why there is no current to the outlet. Thanks a million for a very good instructional video. I was watching another video but the dude just could not stop swearing, making the video bad and just awful to watch. You are an example of humbleness. God bless you.

[@agatha03291945]

I must say very informative I hate videos with endless useless talking but this guy is just what I have been looking for thanks for the help

[@LeroyChannel]

Thank you from someone who knows little about electrical wiring. This was exactly what I needed. Thanks for the great tutorial!

[@carriestiles700]

Lifesaver!! I am just a dumb old girl and thought this would be straight forward, but when I wired it up (connecting BOTH white neutrals to the combo outlet...duh...) only the socket worked. I moved the wires around a bit, and still no luck on the light switch. Then I found your video. I made the pigtail out of the excess wire that was in the wall, and got everything attached and working perfectly according to your instructions. THANK YOU!!!

[@reechfernandez7786]

Thanks for the feed back I thoroughly enjoy your Electrical 101 classes✌

[@Phelper99]

Between you and "Everyday Home Repairs" I've learned so much. Y'all look like you could be brothers, btw. I still usually hire an electrician, even for simple stuff, but I've done my fair share of diy additions and your videos are helpful.

[@JCWren]

I'd be a little careful of EHR's electrical advice. There's a been several instances where it was not done to code. Although it's targeted at electricians and not so much homeowners, check out "Electrician U". Dustin can be a little obnoxious, but he knows what he's doing, he's a bit of a NEC nerd, and he does really clean work.

[@damwam01]

R

[@b5maddog]

Me too

[@claudiamacias4767]

Best video I've seen. Perfect step by step. I have had this switch sitting in my bathroom for 8 months and no one could figure it out.. Thank a million.

[@dakotalane3666]

I just discovered your videos a month ago. Your video on how to wire a light switch and an outlet in the same box was awesome and a life saver. My next project is to change the light bulb socket in a ceiling fan. Thanks for providing such helpful information.

[@michaellewis7601]

This is going to make bathroom remodel a LOT easier. I had never heard of this before. Thank you so much for your channel. Will be visiting often.

[@mikeg127]

Thanks to your video, I finally had the confidence to install this myself. Followed your instructions and voila, perfect. Very helpful and informative and no extra unnecessary talking.

[@the45er]

This video just saved me hours. I had to install this exact receptacle replacing a single pole switch. PERFECT! Thank you!

[@nigelpowell3420]

I purchased a Blink Wired Flood Light and Camera, and wanted to install it and install a switch and outlet combo for it as well. This video helped me to understand how to wire the switch. Awesome video. very clearly explain and easy to follow. Thank you.

[@nigelpowell3420]

I purchased a Blink wired flood light with camera and want to install it over my garage door and install an on and off switch for it as well. I was able to follow this video to understand the wiring of the switch and outlet combo and how to install it. Awesome video. Very easy to follow and the information is clear. Thank you.

[@12345682900]

OUTSTANDING!!!! I was stuck by 2 issues but WITH YOUR help, I had everything CORRECTLY installed in 10 minutes! Yes indeed, "I found VALUE in this video!" Thank you VERY much! 😊😊😊

[@dldufloth]

Thanks so much for this video and the detailed explanation of how to wire it. I had installed one but the switch didn’t control the light. NOW i understand why and the best bonus was understanding LOAD and LINE differences. Thanks again!!!

[@royraghubir9985]

One of the most informative videos. Very clear and concise,. Much appreciated.

[@kieter2718]

Thanks for the informative video! You helped me add a receptacle where I've been needing for some time. Great video!

[@pablolynch1152]

Man explains very well

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Really glad to hear you liked it. Thanks a lot for the feedback!

[@tomfoord8860]

The diagram that came with the combo wasn't helpful, so I wasn't sure that I had figured out how to add the receptacle part to the switch part. Thanks to your clear demonstration I now know what to do and don't need to worry about creating a hazard. Thanks so much! You probably saved me a couple hundred dollars.

[@bostaphkatya]

your explanation is outstanding! so glad i found you

[@sondra6500]

That was a great video. Very informative and explained very well. This will be my new go to place for Electrical stuff. Thank you for sharing.

[@jc-pj3nh]

Very simple explanation to wire what could be a confusing switch. I want to use the switch to control the outlet and I see that I have to break off the connector bar and put a jumper pigtail in so the switch controls the outlet. Thanks for the video. I am now a subscriber to your channel

[@user-dh7cd5ug3k]

Outstanding channel. I was just working on one of these in my attic and couldn't figure the neutrals. Thanks!

[@justrelaxing1501]

This channel is the most informative "How-To" channel I've seen in a long time. It rivals any of the big commercial channels and your explanations are very east to follow. I've done several outlets using your advice and I just feel better know it was done right. Thank you!

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Thank you very much for your kind words. I am really happy to hear that you are finding value in the channel. Thank you again for the feedback!

[@ADElectric]

Really good

[@toylips]

I was so skeptical! This is actually great. Who wouldn't want this? Thanks for putting it together. 🤙

[@tomrogers9467]

Yeah, everybody wants a receptacle halfway up their wall!

[@javiermiranda3340]

Great video. I was doing this exact task in my master bath as it only had a light swtich and not pwr outlets in there. Your video was very straightforward and what i learned from it helped me be successful in my upgrade.

[@northyland1157]

THis may not be safe. A plug in a bathroom should probably be GFIC protected so you can't get electrocuted.

[@user-tv1td7zn4g]

Thanks, you helped me to accomplish a task that I couldn't have done on my own!

[@notgxldcptrick]

Thank you for making it really easy to follow!!

[@yotarzan1]

I like all your videos! very helpful, well explained and straight to the point.

[@deborahwilder5117]

Thank you! Straight forward and easy to follow!

[@bettythelibrarian]

Thank you, thank you, thank you. Such clear instructions and explanations.

[@jacksonlmurphy]

Perfectly helpful. Thanks very much for this!

[@jamiegacos4857]

Excellent presentation. Very thorough.

[@rocketrider1405]

Nice to see that you clip off the ‘old’ copper and re-strip the conductors where it’s possible.

[@djangodave3953]

Excellent demonstration. I'm going to save this vid for reference. Thanks

[@garypower9024]

Awesome video. Right to the job at hand. We don't have to listen to half hour of chat. That being said, we don't mind a couple ads 👍

[@dianecandoflamtaps9557]

Thank you for this great video! Your explanation is the best of any that I’ve seen!! Very thorough! 👍👍

[@cerveceromusic3692]

Great vid. Was able to replace my outlet easily

[@lio_convoy714]

Thanks for this video. All of your videos have been very helpful.

[@estherburke4079]

What a helpful channel! Thanks for the great advice!

[@hawgbreath]

With much difficulty and excessive effort I pretty much just performed this same task but with almost perfect results. Wish I had seen this video sooner! Yes I did search for this exact situation but unfortunately did not find it until now. Unfortunately my results are still unsatisfactory in that the outlet is not hot unless the light switch is “on.” There are a couple of differences in my circumstance: there are two lights operated by the switch and there is also another outlet wired to the same circuit as the switch. Although a different brand, the new switch/receptacle is functionally identical to the one in this video and I have not removed the bridge between the hot screw contacts.

[@psavelli65]

Extremely useful video - thanks for showing this technique for adding an outlet

[@HowToHomeDIY]

You are very welcome! Really glad to hear you found it useful. Thanks a lot for the feedback Pat!

[@lockboxfan]

Incredibly informative. I felt so confident going into exchanging an old switch for a combo--but there were only two wires in the box. I assume one line and one neutral? No ground, and when I installed w/o the ground (metal box), the outlet had not power going to it even though the switch worked.

[@Gauche69]

Thank you! Very clear instructions

[@rosel1022]

I have a one outlet that I can add a floodlight with motion sensor. I believe your video is much very helpful and easy to install because of the light switch combo. Thank you...

[@paulattanasio3061]

This is a great video and have a question. I have a 3 way light switch that I want to add a receptacle to. Do you have a video on how to do this with a 3 way light switch?

[@vernemil]

Thanks. Excellent easy to understand video.

[@lelawells9203]

Thank you so much for your videos! My dad has Alzheimer’s and gets himself in situations where I have to help him and without your video I’d have to call an electrician. Again thank you

[@Rlaplante73]

Very informative video overview, thank you!

[@markwestrick2486]

Nice, very clear and precise. Keep them coming

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Thanks, will do! Thanks a lot for the feedback Mark!

[@neilbrinker9225]

Very nice video. There is a great advantage having a receptacle next to the room light switch in each and every room as you enter. Eliminates standing on your head to plug in the vacuum.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

😂. For sure! Really glad you liked it. Thanks a lot for the feedback Neil!

[@magicmanny72]

Thank you so much. Very informative

[@patrickmurphy372]

Thanks for this video, very helpful 👍

[@albonvin4992]

Your videos are very helpful, I was looking on KZbin for electrical videos for adding outlet plugs, your videos are very helpful and you explained very nicely which anyone can understand. Could you please make a video on how to add 240 volt outlet, I will highly appreciate that. I am new to your channel. Thanks for the information.

[@jeffreyglisson4636]

Very helpful video, I like to learn something new everyday. Jeff

[@MichaelWeida]

Your explanations as you go are so valuable to DIYers!

[@HowToHomeDIY]

I am glad you are finding them helpful. Thanks a lot for the feedback Michael!

[@kgoodfarms]

Awesome, just what I needed

[@diamondloverforever6759]

Amazing! Great to know! Thanks for sharing. God bless you. Sue

[@davidwilcox3812]

Thanks for your very well done video I wish I would have looked to see if you’ve done one on 3 way switch wiring. With that said is it possible to use the switch/outlet combo instead of a 3 way switch?

[@user-sy1op1su6w]

You’re a good teacher! Thank you for sharing your knowledge the ways you do. For me, i prefer your method, styles and that you don’t drag on and repeat. Overall, your delivery wins hands down. 🫡👏🙌👊✌️

[@fentressema3]

Worked well. Thanks!

[@joshuamarius]

"How to install a receptacle in any room without running extra Wiring" is a bit more accurate. Great job though. Love your channel.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Yeah I can see how that would be more accurate. Thanks a lot. I really appreciate the feedback!

[@ravigovande2922]

Thank you so much for posting the video. Certainly a new thing for me to learn. I have 2-questions: 1) I have a receptacle on the wall located very close to the floor. What can be done to prevent small children to touch it to avoid accidents? any Protector? 2) Do you have a video on adding a On/Off Toggle switch for a receptacle that need to installed at an height of 5 or 6' height to turn the power off? Thanks again.

[@thomasrizzi1470]

Thank you for your video on the combo switch outlet I have an Eagle 272V-BOX Switch and Receptacle with a small indicator light in front in the same area as the switch. How do I wire up a Eagle 272V-BOX Switch and Receptacle to have the small LED or Neon light to light up when the power is supplied to the outlet .Also, I appreciate the way you explained the procedure was very understandable.

[@cmlouie4398]

Fantastic instruction TY

[@cesarflores1395]

Very well explained !!!

[@nickbowers678]

Thanks for the video I could not figure out how to make the receptacle work on the light switch

[@jeanchery7246]

Great teaching 👍

[@Freedbird]

I have been wanting to do this. Appreciate your direct approch with visuals and no theatrics. Realized as I was checking that switch, that a different 70's palm rocker switch I hate makes ab excellent place to pkug the vaumn cleaner in and have a regular switch. Thanks !

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Really glad you liked it! Thanks a ton for the valuable feedback J B!

[@blackhorse2947]

Always good information

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Really glad to hear you liked it. Thanks a lot for the feedback!

[@StuartElson]

This is very clear and easy

[@01mia18]

Thanks! Great info.

[@trevorchargois4590]

This really is a good informative channel. Even though I’ve done a few amateur connections in the past. There are some very good reminders all amateurs or lay people need. What I need a reminder of (1) if adding a pig tail to existing twisted connections; cut off the prior copper then add the pig tail.

[@HowToHomeDIY]

We can all use a reminder in different areas. Really glad to hear you are finding value in the channel. Thanks a lot for the feedback Trevor!

[@randomgamer-st1ie]

Nice for modern homes, mine was built in the 1940s, only 2 wires with heavy fabric insulation. No ground wire, no white or black wires, no wire nuts.

[@williamp3308]

Thanks man... saved my life

[@johnmahalick8298]

Thanks for your help

[@talesoftwobros]

the only video that helped me. thanks

[@iwant2retiresoon-ew9tf]

Thanks guy, made me look like I know what I'm doing.😂

[@enigmawyoming5201]

You just inspired me to put a new outlet on my garage light switch because just yesterday, I had to put an extension cord laying across the door entrance to get power to the corner of my garage where the outlet is behind a cabinet. I’d much rather not have to worry about tripping over the cord (or even a piece of carpet covering the cord) at the bottom of the steps every time I go in and out of the garage whenever I’m using my battery charger.

[@enigmawyoming5201]

I just thought… I need that to be a GFI, right?

[@HowToHomeDIY]

You are correct. Good news is they make a GFCI version of this!

[@enigmawyoming5201]

@@HowToHomeDIY Ahhhh… thanks for that info!

[@enigmawyoming5201]

@@HowToHomeDIY Question: Why wouldn’t somebody just automatically put a GFCI in for a receptacle? Is cost the only reason, or are there other reasons?

[@JCWren]

@@enigmawyoming5201 Cost, and because they're not immune from false tripping. Also, they're ugly. A decent commercial grade outlet is about $3, while a GFCI outlet starts around $15.

[@robertarnold9815]

Since most times you'll be doing this in the bathroom to provide an outlet near the sink I suggest using a GFI version of this device, in fact I would always do that even though they cost more.

[@pdcro1247]

Great video

[@manikenpachi2760]

Thanks for your help buddy

[@michaelt7687]

bomb video. the quality is getting better and better too 👍🏼 i really appreciate how you cover the simple things in the more advanced videos. they’re a great reminder and keep me sharp

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Thank you very much. Really glad to hear you liked it and found value in it. I am always trying to improve. Have some new stuff coming down the line. Thanks a lot for the invaluable feedback!

[@michaelt7687]

@@HowToHomeDIY PS, folks might like a video about adding a light switch (w/light) from an existing outlet. keep it up 💪🏼

[@Mark-dr5xi]

Great video - from one LEO to another, well done sir!

[@HowToHomeDIY]

Thank you! Retired or still 10-8?

[@Mark-dr5xi]

@@HowToHomeDIY 34 years retired and went on to get elected to 3 terms as a county clerk-recorder registrar of voters…as of 1-2-23 fully retired. Now I’m doing what I love puttering around the house and mountain cabin-you have taught me a lot. Great straightforward style. Are you still 10-8?

[@mikecooper8988]

Thanks. Used it to wire one

[@kennethargo]

Great video. thanks

[@MrSteele313]

Great video thanks

[@topgrain]

When turning off the breaker for the switch you're working with, if it proves to be a 20 amp circuit, the pigtail should be made with 12 gauge wire, not the 14 gauge that most electrical outlets and switches are wired to 15 amp circuits with. 12 gauge wire is designed to carry a bigger load, but a 15 amp switch can be connected to it. It is all of the wiring, including the pigtail, that must be the exact same gauge.

[@fridakahlua6674]

Yaaay Thank you!

[@stevensmith4099]

Highly recommend putting something like a Wago on the end of each of the hot wires before testing line or load. You can still test by placing the meter lead into one the push connectors and it's a much safer method than having hot bare copper.

[@NevrNewd]

I just watched your video on installing a new receptacle off a light switch and was going to do that. But this is what I really want to do. Thanks!

[@HowToHomeDIY]

You are welcome! Glad you found it helpful. Thanks for the feedback!

[@user-ws1jn6mv2c]

Thank you !

[@Doctaj54]

Would this work well on either side of a light with 3way switches?

[@chuckg2016]

I'm glad you made a clear distinction between "back stab" and "back wire". This appears to be a continuing disagreement within the trade. You're breaker was 15 amp; maybe a word or caution to use wires & devices that are compatible to the breaker ampacity?

[@reechfernandez7786]

Very straight forward explanation I'm going to install one of those much-needed receptacles. My question is why is it you never wrap the outlets with electrical tape before you screw it back into the box?

[@HowToHomeDIY]

I just personally find it unnecessary and it can make a sticky mess later. As long as everything is installed correctly there should not be any issues. But some folks think it helps and to my knowledge it is perfectly legal to do so. I appreciate the feedback!

[@isaacheiss7093]

So he don't get shocked putting it back in! Lol

[@ThePioneer00]

Thanks, Yes video helped alot

[@goat4u2c]

Eloquent af good sir...

[@fredr.5723]

Great vid ! Great Channel Hello from North Hudson Valley NY. If you don’t have a meter ( like me) is there another way of determining the load wire prior to being And is 12 gauge wire (what I have now)ok to use on this project? Appreciate any help in advance. Keep putting out the vids they help alot God Bless

[@hastingb]

I followed the steps you outlined and it worked perfectly until I pushed everything back into the box. I pulled the switch back out and discovered that the pigtail had popped loose from the wire nut. I can see why lever nuts are becoming more popular.