The neutral from the source is spliced through to the switch box using the white wire and in this diagram, the white wire is capped with a wire nut. In this updated diagram 3-wire cable runs between the receptacle and switch and the red cable wire is used to carry the hot source to the switch. The black cable wire runs to the SW1 connecting it to the hot on the top half of the split outlet. The white wire is marked black on both ends to identify it as hot. The hot source is spliced to a pigtail that connect to the bottom, always-hot half on the receptacle and to the white cable wire running to SW1. The circuit neutral wire is connected to one of the neutral terminals on the outlet, it doesn't run to the switch. Here the source is at the outlet and 2-wire cable runs from there to SW1. The tab between the neutral, silver terminals should remain intact. The receptacle is split by breaking the connecting tab between the two, brass colored terminals. This diagram illustrates the wiring for a split receptacle with the top half controlled by SW1 and the bottom half always hot.

The black loop wire is connected to the other terminal and at the light, to the hot terminal on the fixture. At SW1 it is connected to one of the terminals. The neutral from the source is connected directly to the neutral terminal on the light and the source hot is spliced with the white loop wire. This circuit is wired with a 2-wire cable running from the light to the switch location. When the electrical source originates at a light fixture and is controlled from a remote location, a switch loop is used.

Also included are wiring arrangements for multiple light fixtures controlled by one switch, two switches on one box, and a split receptacle controlled by two switches, plus more. This page contains wiring diagrams for household light switches and includes: a switch loop, single-pole switches, light dimmer, and a few choices for wiring a outlet switch combo device. If the user is unable to perform electrical work themselves, a qualified electrician should be consulted. The user of this information is responsible for following all applicable regulations and best practices when performing electrical work. Calculate total conductors allowed in a box before adding new wiring, etc. Per the NEC, the number of conductors allowed in a box are limited depending on box size and wire gauge.

Check local regulations for restrictions and permit requirements before beginning electrical work.

Onto vs one to one diagrams