[barbara828]

Besides calling Pike, or A handyman, how may one change the outlet that operates for only a single item. not explaining well, but I want to switch it to an ''always on' outlet.

[MSchad]

Originally Posted by barbara828

Besides calling Pike, or A handyman, how may one change the outlet that operates for only a single item. not explaining well, but I want to switch it to an ''always on' outlet.

If it is operated by a single switch, just bypass the switch. The switch will do nothing then. If a two way switch, call the electrician/handy man.

[BobnBev]

Originally Posted by MSchad

If it is operated by a single switch, just bypass the switch. The switch will do nothing then. If a two way switch, call the electrician/handy man.

Plug a lamp into the outlet that works, now take that plug and plug it into the one that doesn't work, flip the wall switch and both of them should work. Switch might have a red dot on it.

[Altavia]

Google "change switched outlet to unswitched", lots of info and videos.

[villagetinker]

OP, this can be complicated if you are not familiar with working on house wiring. Basically, the power from the panel box in the garage will be going to the outlet. at the outlet there was a small brass link between the two halves of the outlet that was removed. In it place the cable to the switch was installed. Therefore, one outlet stays on and the other is switched. there are a couple of ways you can convert this to non-switched operation, but I am concerned that you need help doing this. IMHO, call a handyman ($$) or a licensed electrician ($$$) to have this completed.
If you decide to do this yourself, make sure you turn the power OFF at the circuit breaker before start changing/removing wires.
PS the easiest way to do this is to mark the switch to not turn it off.

[Ecuadog]

I am going to assume that you have a wall oulet with 2 receptacles, 1 is always on and 1 is controlled by a wall switch. Why not plug an extender into the "always on" half and just ignore the "switched" half?

Amazon - GE Extender $4.99 ...click here

[retiredguy123]

Originally Posted by barbara828

Besides calling Pike, or A handyman, how may one change the outlet that operates for only a single item. not explaining well, but I want to switch it to an ''always on' outlet.

1. Turn off the circuit breaker
2. Remove the cover plate from the wall switch
3. Disconnect the wires from the switch and remove the switch
4. Install a wire nut on the wires
5. Install a blank cover plate
6. Turn on the circuit breaker

[Garywt]

Either just leave the switch on all the time or as noted, plug a multi outlet plug into the outlet that works.

[ThirdOfFive]

Originally Posted by retiredguy123

1. Turn off the circuit breaker
2. Remove the cover plate from the wall switch
3. Disconnect the wires from the switch and remove the switch
4. Install a wire nut on the wires
5. Install a blank cover plate
6. Turn on the circuit breaker

This would work, but I strongly advise against it, for two reasons.

First, it merely disables the switch. It does nothing for the OP's desire to have an "always on" outlet.

Second, and far more importantly, someone with little or no knowledge of electricity absolutely should NOT be attempting to work with it. Turning off the circuit breaker that controls a particular outlet in order to work on that outlet is DANGEROUS. See the following quote from The Spokesman Review, article October 3, 2006:

"People often think it’s safe to turn off a single breaker to work on a given circuit in the home. Nothing could be more foolish. As often as not, electricians will use a single junction box to connect wires from two or more circuits.

In other words, you can turn off the breaker to a light or plug and still find an active hot lead in the electric box that you are working on."

Also, capping the wires, once disconnected, is something that a person might not do correctly. Caps are screwed, not pressed on and unless a person knows that, there is a good chance he or she may not do it correctly and end up with an exposed wire (and thus a dangerous situation) in that box, as well as causing problems down the line if electricity flows THROUGH that box to other fixtures down the line. Also there are different-sized caps for different wires. capping a wire with the wrong-sized cap can lead to an exposed wire dangling in that box somewhere down the line.

Hire an electrician. Best and safest way to accomplish what you want. It will cost you a few bucks but you won't be in any danger.

[Keefelane66]

A lot less expensive than hiring electrician. Good suggestion

[B-flat]

I have 2 switches I never want shut off. I bought 2 of these covers at Home Depot but Amazon has them too, I’m sure Lowe’s must have them too.

Amazon.com

[retiredguy123]

Originally Posted by B-flat

I have 2 switches I never want shut off. I bought 2 of these covers at Home Depot but Amazon has them too, I’m sure Lowe’s must have them too.

Amazon.com

Those will work for the toggle type switches, but not for the larger, "designer" switches that many of the Villages houses have.

[retiredguy123]

Originally Posted by ThirdOfFive

This would work, but I strongly advise against it, for two reasons.

First, it merely disables the switch. It does nothing for the OP's desire to have an "always on" outlet.

Second, and far more importantly, someone with little or no knowledge of electricity absolutely should NOT be attempting to work with it. Turning off the circuit breaker that controls a particular outlet in order to work on that outlet is DANGEROUS. See the following quote from The Spokesman Review, article October 3, 2006:

"People often think it’s safe to turn off a single breaker to work on a given circuit in the home. Nothing could be more foolish. As often as not, electricians will use a single junction box to connect wires from two or more circuits.

In other words, you can turn off the breaker to a light or plug and still find an active hot lead in the electric box that you are working on."

Also, capping the wires, once disconnected, is something that a person might not do correctly. Caps are screwed, not pressed on and unless a person knows that, there is a good chance he or she may not do it correctly and end up with an exposed wire (and thus a dangerous situation) in that box, as well as causing problems down the line if electricity flows THROUGH that box to other fixtures down the line. Also there are different-sized caps for different wires. capping a wire with the wrong-sized cap can lead to an exposed wire dangling in that box somewhere down the line.

Hire an electrician. Best and safest way to accomplish what you want. It will cost you a few bucks but you won't be in any danger.

I agree with the safety concerns with disconnecting the power. Obviously, paying an electrician will solve any electrical problem, but the OP asked for DIY solution. I think removing a wall switch is a relatively easy DIY project.

I'm not sure how removing the wall switch is functionally different from creating an "always on" outlet in another way. What is the difference?

Also, if you just remove the switch, and install a blank plate, you can reinstall the switch when you want to sell the house.

[rjm1cc]

I agree with leave the switch on. But you can get a plug in adapter that will let you plug 3 items into the one outlet at the hardware store. I would do this if you have a problem with leaving the switch on all the time.
3 way plug adapter - Google Search

[ton80]

Originally Posted by retiredguy123

Those will work for the toggle type switches, but not for the larger, "designer" switches that many of the Villages houses have.

Amazon and others sell plates for the designer switches just continue down to related products. Copied from the website but formatting got changed. This item is 5$ each plus shipping.


"Switch Style Decorator
Material Plastic
Brand PSZEZNZ
Color White
Item Dimensions LxWxH 11 x 1.38 x 1.06 inches

About this item

These Rocker Switch guard Shields are Widely suitable for all flat modern switches For paddle switches and european style double light switches

Built-in magnets that instantly attach to switch screws on all rocker switches - no tools needed! Can also remove screws and attach the shield

Durable, high-quality plastic materials,
Clear White design for any home decor or wall plate. Only lock is included,

No switches or plates.

If you are looking for a cover for your White/Clear Magnetic Light Switch Guards, please search for B099QSTQX7 in the Amazon search bar.