How to Add an Outlet to an Existing Wall 1

Turn Power Off to Add an Outlet to an Existing Wall
These are the tools that you’ll need. We want to add an outlet to the ground floor. We have no attic access and we have no access below the house because we have a concrete floor. We want to add an outlet to the pantry behind this wall so we are going to tap into an existing outlet.We need to turn power off so I’m going to use a device that allows me to check the circuit. Switch off the power and then plug in your volt meter to insure there is no power.
Measure the Box to Add an Outlet to an Existing Wall
Next you want to measure the distance from the inside of the box to the wall so you can match this on the other side of the wall. There is not enough depth in this wall to put the two boxes back to back so we will have to make an adjustment.You also want to measure the height of the box so that you can match that.Once inside the pantry we will measure to ensure that we are matching the distance. In this case we are going to subtract four inches to prevent us from placing the box back to back. You want to level your box.
Cut Out the Box to Add an Outlet to an Existing Wall
Next you want to draw an outline so that you can cut around the box. Do not cut around the tab because that will sit flat against the wall as you will see later. Drill a hole for access into the wall. Using a wooden stick I can probe inside the wall just to make sure there is nothing back there.Drill holes in the corners to make cutting easier and then we will take a dry wall saw and cut out the opening. Ensure that your box will fit properly, in this case it does. As you can see those tabs as I mentioned earlier, are sitting flush against the wall.

• Add an Outlet to an Existing Wall