Switch outlet in bathroom

odale · 12-11-2009, 03:38 PM

We have had a combination switch and outlet in our bathroom for years. Thr outlet will work only when the switch is in an off position. I have looked at the wiring and found the black hot wire connected to the brass screw on one side and the white wire connected to the other side with a small wire connecting the two screws on the white wire side. I would like the outlet to work when the switch is on or off. I have tried a new combination switch with the same results. There are only two wires in the box,a black and a white.

Michael Thomas · 12-11-2009, 05:10 PM

Unless this has already been done, or the bathroom outlet is already protected by a GFCI breaker, the existing switch/outlet should be replaced with GFCI switch/combo unit in any case to reduce the danger of electric shock / electrocution.

220/221 · 12-11-2009, 05:20 PM

Does this switch operate the bathroom light?

If so, the recep shouldn't work at all so somethings miswired somewhere

HouseHelper · 12-11-2009, 05:59 PM

If that was originally a switch only (usually the case), then you only have a switch leg i.e., there is no neutral present to properly power the recptacle.

joed · 12-11-2009, 06:19 PM

You need at least three wire + ground for this to work properly. Replace it with a switch only device.
This was improperly installed on a switch loop. If you remove the bulbs from the light then I bet the receptacle doesn't work.

odale · 12-11-2009, 06:50 PM

You're right. If I take out the bulbs the outlet doesn't work. I put the bulbs back in and the outlet works when the lights are out. This has been like this for thirty years!! I just never used a plug in dryer with the lights on. Thank you all for the advice. I will replace it with a GFCI switch.

HouseHelper · 12-11-2009, 07:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by odale

You're right. If I take out the bulbs the outlet doesn't work. I put the bulbs back in and the outlet works when the lights are out. This has been like this for thirty years!! I just never used a plug in dryer with the lights on. Thank you all for the advice. I will replace it with a GFCI switch.

Just putting in a GFCI switch won't work... you need another wire, either by adding an additional 12/2 or replacing what you have with a 12/3.

joed · 12-11-2009, 08:04 PM

You need to replace it with a switch. You can not have a receptacle there without rewiring. And since this will be a wiring change it will need to be a 20 amp circuit with #12 cable.