Learn the Basics of Home Wiring: Step-by-Step Instructions for Wiring an Outlet in a Series

Now all you need to do is to complete the job is to attach and secure the dead-facing plates of each of the outlets, and once again check the connections with a multimeter to make sure the circuit is not live.

Many people are surprised to know that two or more outlets along the same common power line can actually be wired together in a series. When wiring outlets together, it is important to understand that there is a distinction between wiring multiple outlets together in parallel and in series. Wiring outlets in parallel creates a single circuit, from one hot wire to the other, that can provide power to multiple outlets across the same circuit. Wiring outlets in series produces a circuit from one hot wire, through the switches and outlets, and then back to the neutral wire on the same circuit. This type of wiring is often done when you want to have one switch control all of the outlets, without having to install one switch for each outlet.

To wire an outlet in a series, you’ll need to cut three taps, one for the hot, one for the neutral, and one for the ground wires. Strip ½ inch of the insulation off both ends of each wire and set the wires aside. You can then wire the second outlet by cutting 4 inches of the sheath off the wire in the junction box. Separate the three wires and strip off ½ inch of insulation from each one. Connect the end of the hot (black) wire to the brass terminal. Screw the end of the neutral wire to the silver terminal. Finally, screw the ground or green wire to the metal screw in the box.

Then connect the loose end of the black tap to the brass screw, the end of the neutral tap to the silver screw, and the end of the ground tap to the ground screw in the box. To connect the first outlet to the rest of the outlets in the series, strip ½ inch of the insulation off the ends of the wire, bring the hot, neutral, and ground wires together, and attach them with a wire connector and cover with electrical tape. Now repeat this process for the next outlet in the series, until you’re done.

The advantage of wiring multiple outlets in series is that when one outlet is switched off, the other outlets will also be switched off, saving energy and eliminating the need to keep track of which outlets are switched off and which are left on.

Wiring an outlet in a series is an easy job that can be done by a novice. It is important, however, to always take precautions when working with electrical wiring. Make sure the power to the area is turned off before you start, and check the connections with a multimeter to make sure the circuit is not live. With the correct tools and safety precautions in place, you’ll be able to wire an outlet in a series in no time.