How to Pigtail Outlets

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    • 1). Measure and cut to length a six-inch section of bare ground wire using a tape measure and wire cutters. If the power to the circuit has been turned on, turn it off at the circuit breaker supplying the circuit's power.

    • 2). Hold one end of the new ground wire section to the ends of the two existing ground wires coming from the wall box (three ground wire ends, in all). Twist these three ground wire ends together in a clockwise rotation using linesman's pliers -- the other end of the six-inch ground wire momentarily left free. Screw a wire nut onto the end of the three twisted ground wires.

    • 3). Bend the ends of the two sets of black and white wires, as well as the other end of the new six-inch ground wire section into clockwise hook shapes, using long-nosed pliers.

    • 4). Position each of the black wires around one of the brass terminal screws on the outlet, and tighten the screw heads to the wires with the screwdriver. Position each of the white wires around one of the silver terminal screws, and tighten the screw heads to the wires. Position the ground wire end around the green terminal screw, and tighten the screw head to the wire.

    • 5). Push the wires and wire nut carefully into the back of the wall box. Attach the outlet to the wall box with the two screws, and position the faceplate against the front of the outlet, connecting it in place with the screw. In each case, use the screwdriver.

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