Adding outlets

[tearapin]

Hello,
In my garage i have a switch by the service door and outlet contained in a 2 gang plastic (blue) box mounted flush with the drywall. I want to tap power out of it and go about 36 inches down the wall and mount a surface mount double gang box. I want to do this because there are obviously studs in the wall to pass through.

I know I can use the Wiremold brand stuff but...Doesn't someone make a box extension that I can mount to my plastic switch box? Then come out of it with metal or plastic conduit?

 

[LS6 Tommy]

Wiremold makes exactly what you're looking for. V5751-1. Make sure you bond the Wiremold box to the existng ground.

Tommy

 

[Rrumbler]

Box extenders are available, but there are many different ones, and not all stores that you may have access to have them; you just have to go hunting. If I were you, though, I would go wit a Wiremold metal system - extension box, wire channel, and another box - most wiremold boxes are capable of being used as a regular surface mount box, or by taking the back off, as a box extender so you can tie into an existing box like you want to do. You could hunt up a galvanized box extension with conduit knock outs and use EMT, or find a plastic extender box and use PVC, but I think the Wiremold looks better, and is generally easier to use for someone who is not equipped for electrical work.

 

[matt_i]

They make long flexible-shaft drill bits for such apps. Saw your new hole for an "old work" box. The bit in question even has a cross-hole for pulling the wire back.

Worst case you tear up a little drywall, its pretty easy to patch back.

Also consider running straight up into the attic and then back down in the stud cavity of choice. Its a little more wire but the electrons will not care.

 

[CJ7VFR]

...Also consider running straight up into the attic and then back down in the stud cavity of choice. Its a little more wire but the electrons will not care.

If you can do this, and you have attic access, or access from underneath, then it would be your cleanest and cheapest way to go.

You won't need the Wiremold items, or the surface mount box. And when you are done it will look like it was always there.

But if you don't have access to run wires from above or up from below, then the Wiremold is your best bet. You can even paint the Wiremold items the same color as the wall so they will blend in and not be as noticeable.

Jim