[pman6]

noob here.

Is there room to twist 2 wires and hook them to the same screws on a light switch?

Here's what I want to do:

-Light switch now powers bathroom vanity light.
-I want to add exhaust fan and pull wire to the existing light switch, rather than daisy chaining the light and fan.
I prefer this way because in the future, I plan to put a separate light switch for the fan, and can just move the wire over. (Currently rental property, and need to force tenants to use fan)

Also, does it matter what gauge wire I use?

I want to make sure I do it right

 

[joecaption]

Nope one wire per screw, going to have to use wire nuts to connect the two wires and only have one under the screw.
14 guage will be fine.

 

[kbsparky]

Nope. Most wiring devices' screw terminals are rated for only one conductor.

There are exceptions, in that the more expensive devices have provisions for 2 straight conductors to be inserted in the rear, and then you can tighten the screws.

The procedure in this case would be to "pigtail" the connections from the switch to both of the wires leaving the switch box using a wirenut.

 

[pman6]

ahh yes. I found the answer after I posted

this... :thumbsup:

 

[rjniles]

Nope one wire per screw, going to have to use wire nuts to connect the two wires and only have one under the screw.
14 guage will be fine.

14 guage may not be fine if this is a 20 amp circuit, then you will need #12.

You plan may not work if the switch is connected to a switch loop.

Also post your location as it can make a difference.

 

[pman6]

I am in los angeles.

I'll look at the breaker and buy a 12 gauge if that works too