We have removed an old light fixture in the bathroom that had an integrated outlet. The outlet (the only one in the bathroom) only worked while the light was on. We want to replace that light and add a separate outlet. There are many wires and the gentleman at the electrical store said that we have something called a switch loop. We're a little befuddled as to how to run the wires. Can anyone help?

At the point where the switch is, are there any other switches? How many wires in that box, and what color are they?

At the point where the light is, how many wires in that area, and what color are they.

Answers will help people to help you.

You'll certainly have to run wires and cut in boxes. Are you up for that challenge?

There are two switches at the doorway. The second switch controls an overhead heat light and is on a different circuit. We have not as yet taken a look at the wiring there. We have removed the old fixture and opened up the drywall around the area where the old fixture was and the new fixture will go. We will be moving the receptacle over approximately 8" to sit against another stud which will place the fixture over the sink/mirror as it was not before. We have opened the drywall at the location for the new outlet though have not as yet run any wires. This location is about 2 feet down and 1 foot to the right of the old recptacle.

If you have never performed electrical work call a pro. Sorry but when you have to solicit advice @ the local hardware store you may have a bit to much on your plate. Plus remember you may violate local codes by doing the work yourself, along with homeowners ins. concerns.

Unfortunately I have a VERY limited budget. Trust me if I could afford an electrician I would be thrilled to have him come. They're wonderful, but WAY outside my finacial capabilities.

By code if you add a receptacle in a bathroom where none exists then (without going into the code details) you MUST run a dedicated 20A circuit to the bathroom for it.

I understand things might be out of your budget, but then some things are better left alone for now.
You're better off not doing it than doing something way outside the scope of your expertise.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Speedy Petey,