[macblair]

I want to add a ceiling fan/light to a room that has a light switch that just controls an outlet. I would like the outlet to always be got and use the light awitch just to control the fan/light. The fan has 2 chains to control the fan and light from the unit so I don't think I need 14/3 wire, just 14/2 wire. Also this is an upstairs room and so I will be working somewhat in the attic to lay out the wiring. Not sure if this makes a difference. Any help or instructions would be much appreciated.

 

[220/221]

1. Open the switch box and respond with how many wires/cables are in there and what type of cable (metal or non metal sheath) . Also note what type of box it is (metal, plastic, dimensions)

2. Even though the fan has pull chains, it is a good idea to run a 3 wire cable so you don't always have to mess with the chains.

 

[PaliBob]

...... Even though the fan has pull chains, it is a good idea to run a 3 wire cable so you don't always have to mess with the chains.

This is also good because then you can have both a dimmer and a a Fan Speed control at the switch.
http://www.amazon.com/Leviton-6630-W-Slide-Dimmer-Control/dp/B000LEWQDO

MAC You may have 14/3 now routed to the receptacle, so dropping the switch leg and routing it to the fan will solve the problem, but if you can get an extra conductor down to the receptacle then you can have a dimmer and a switch with fan speed control. It would mean running another 14/2 up to the light switch which could be done with a minimal of wall patching.

If you don't want to upgrade the Switch>Receptacle leg at this time then at least install 14/3 on the Receptacle>Fan leg. That way, If you later want to add a dimmer the wiring will be easier.

Note the above referenced combo switch has power limitations.
If these exceed your fan then other Fan Speed controls come with an ON/OFF light switch instead of a dimmer.

NOTE
Try to make the access cut-out above the receptacle in one piece then save it to use in patching the hole.

 

[J. V.]

This is also good because then you can have both a dimmer and a a Fan Speed control at the switch.
http://www.amazon.com/Leviton-6630-W-Slide-Dimmer-Control/dp/B000LEWQDO

MAC You may have 14/3 now routed to the receptacle, so dropping the switch leg and routing it to the fan will solve the problem, but if you can get an extra conductor down to the receptacle then you can have a dimmer and a switch with fan speed control. It would mean running another 14/2 up to the light switch which could be done with a minimal of wall patching.

If you don't want to upgrade the Switch>Receptacle lag at this time then at least install 14/3 on the Receptacle>Fan leg. That way, If you later want to add a dimmer the wiring will be easier.

Note the above referenced combo switch has power limitations.
If these exceed your fan then other Fan Speed controls come with an ON/OFF light switch instead of a dimmer.

NOTE
Try to make the access cut-out above the receptacle in one piece then save it to use in patching the hole.

I would not cut the drywall. :no: Open the receptacle box and use the KO or other cable opening. You can always find the correct stud bay to drill through the top plate. Then just fish the cable, down into the box, using your favorite method. If he wants independent fan/light control like you mentioned he needs a 3 wire cable from the switch box too. That can be accomplished the same way. But, if you have to add a cable to the switch box, why not just feed the fan/light directly from the switch box and leave the receptacles alone.

 

[220/221]

I

would not cut the drywall. :no: Open the receptacle box and use the KO or other cable opening

I would not use the recep box. I'd remove the sw box, enlarge the opening to accomodate a 2 gang box and fish down from the attic. The new, larger opening makes retrieving the cable much easier.:thumbup:

 

[PaliBob]

II would not use the recep box. I'd remove the sw box, enlarge the opening to accomodate a 2 gang box and fish down from the attic. The new, larger opening makes retrieving the cable much easier.:thumbup:

Great suggestion. The two gang box could then be used for a dimmer and more capable fan speed control than in the combo control that I suggested.

Mac, What do you think?
.