This is a continuation of the wiring for the vanity light began in Part 14.
Vanity Light Switch Electrical Wiring
The job starts with new NM 14/2 electrical cable hanging out of the wall for the new light switch.
GFCI Outlet and Wire Drop for the Vanity Switch
A single NM 14/2 cable is used to wire the single pole switch. The neutral (white) wire is relabeled as hot (black) per the wiring diagram since it serves as a hot wire in this switch application.
White (Neutral) Wire Relabeled Black for Hot
The wire is 1st inserted through the junction box and the light switch is then side-wired. The 2nd wire is being inserted into the terminal clamp in this photo:
Side Wiring the Light Switch
Needle nose pliers are used form a hook in the ground wire.
Looping the Ground Wire
The ground wire is slipped around the ground screw.
Attach the Light Switch Ground Wire
Use the needle nose pliers to close hook around the ground screw. Then tighten the ground screw to secure the wire.
Ground Wire is Bent Closed
The light switch is now wired as shown. Notice the single pole light switch makes/breaks the hot wire circuit which is the reason for relabeling the neutral wire as hot.
Wired Light Switch
The “old work” junction box and light switch is ready to be mounted in the wall. I’ve extended the wings on the junction box to illustrate how they extended inside the wall when the screws are tightened.
Old Work Junction Box and Light Switch
Fold the wings closed and insert the junction box into the wall. Tighten the two mounting screws until the wings grab fast, but don’t over tighten or you’ll crack the drywall.
Notice which end of the light switch is marked TOP or UP, fold the wires inside the junction box and fasten the two screws to mount the switch. Lastly, attached the face plates to the GFCI outlet and light switch.
Junction Box Mounted to the Wall
The switches and outlets are labeled here for clarity:
Bathroom Switches and GFCI
The junction box and vanity light are wired in Part 16.
Take care,
Bob Jackson
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