I have a light switch that controls an outlet. Plugged into the outlet is a light for the room. I'm going to to install a wall light that will only work off the switch. So how do I make the switch only work the light and have the outlet work all the time? How can I wire this correctly?
Often, switch controlled, duplex receptacles, are connected so that each receptacle in the duplex are isolated. The switch would control one of the receptacles of the pair and the other would be on continuously. To accomplish this, cut a copper strap on the line (hot) side of the receptacle that joins the two receptacles together. Do not cut the copper strip that interconnects the neutral conductor! Connect one receptacle of the duplex to a circuit that passes through the switch and the other receptacel is connected to a circuit that bypasses the switch. If you have any problems following this, get a knowledgeable friend to help or find an electrical wiring guide at your local building supply such as Lowes or Home Depot.
Though this is a simple problem, it's not something that you should just jump into without any experience; you could kill yourself, if you're not careful.
