How do I remove old wiring from the wall and the switch from the wall?

Question

We removed a valance from our living room which had an old outlet (outside of the wall, in an electrical box). There is a switch on the wall that only goes to the electrical box, now hanging from the wall. We would like to remove the wiring and switch, but are not sure how to go about it.

Answer 1

You can remove the wires and boxes back to another box where they will remain accessible after you cap them off with wire nuts. Just so the ends of the wires you wish to remove are contained in an electric box and not covered up and hidden inside the wall. Will the outlet box outside remain? Disconnect the switch wires in there if it will. Email if you need more help, or call an electrician if in doubt.

Answer 2

Find the circuit breaker and turn it off. Remove the cover from the switch and remove the wires from the screws on the switch. I would cap the wires from the breaker with wire nuts ( they screw on ) I don't like tape for this.
Next remove the cover from the outlet box. Remove the outlet and pull the wires out.
Buy a blank cover plate for the box where the switch was.
Assuming there are other circuits on the breaker, turn it back on. Done.

Answer 3

Valid suggestions. I'll add my two cents. First of all are you in need of that circuit? OR does it apply to other recetacles connected at the breaker?

Unless the Wiring is in your way, just disconnect THAT line, CUT and cap the wiring INSIDE the wall it comes out of.

Certainly shutting the breaker off is logical. If you don't want to use PLATES, which are as OBVIOUS as the switch you wish to remove, remove the BOX and the hardware, and patch the space with a piece of CULLED drywall appropriately.

Answer 4

You'll have to make sure the breaker is turned off, and remove the wiring from the breaker (if it's connected directly to the breaker). Just make sure that the line isn't energized. After your wire is disconnected then simply pull on it....keeping in mind that it may be very hard. I also would recommend you getting an electrician to check on it. Best of luck to you.

Answer 5

You should call an electrician because you dont know what else is connected to the wires unless its a dedicated feed,and the wires are stapled to studs you cant just pull them out unless there in conduit.To many things involved call an electrician.

Answer 6

Hey dude.

It is best that you leave it to the pros.

It will cost Barely nothing and it is a WHOLE lot safer.

If you do go ahead with it.

make sure your waring alot of rubber aye.


Carter

Answer 7

when it comes to electricity, HVAC, or plumbing the easiest and safest way is to hire someone qualified to do it...