Parallel Light Switch Installation

Turn off the power for the circuit you are working on at the home's distribution panel. Confirm the power is off by touching a non-contact voltage detector to the wire's insulation.

Cut the power wire from the distribution panel in the location you want to tap into the power supply. Strip three-eighths inch of insulation off the three conductors on each cut end with wire strippers.

Strip three-eighths inch of insulation off the three conductors in the 14/3 gauge wire. Twist together the two black wires from the distribution panel with the black wire from the 14/3 gauge wire with pliers. Install a twist-on wire connector on top. Repeat this process to connect the three white wires together and the three green or bare wires together.

Run the 14/3 gauge wire to the light switch. Cut the wire to length and strip three-eighths inch of insulation off the end of the three conductors. Strip three-eighths inch of insulation off the power wire going to the light.

Twist together the two white wires with pliers and install a twist-on wire connector on top.

Loosen the grounding screw in the electrical box and wrap both green or bare wires around this screw. Tighten the screw down with a screwdriver.

Loosen the two terminals on the side of the switch. Wrap the black wire going to the light around the top right terminal and tighten it down. Wrap the other black wire around the bottom right terminal and tighten it down.

Push the wires and connections into the electrical box. Fasten the outlet to the box with the top and bottom screws.

Install the cover on the switch with the screw provided. Turn the power back on and test the light.