How to Wire Multiple Lights to One Power Source

Are you thinking about turning all the lights on when you flip a switch or multiple switches on the same line? Yes, life has been easier with the pace of modern times. People have now made this wiring very common.

Usually, the single power source means a single circuit breaker remaining at the main electrical panel. This circuit breaker must have the ability to handle multiple lights without making them prone to damage. Overall, wiring all those lights to one power source is simple.

But how to wire multiple lights to one power source?

You can follow several methods to connect all the lights to one circuit breaker. The most common method is wiring them in series. Thus, each light is connected to its prior light and another one after it. Another technique is wiring several lights in a parallel method. In this method, you wire the lights so that others will be still operational when one light goes out.

In this article, I share these two methods of connecting multiple lights to a single power source. Here, I will discuss both ways: parallel and series. You will love to know the processes. Besides, you can pick any of these methods. Both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages.

9 Steps to Wiring Multiple Lights to One Power Source with Series Method

Wiring lights to the same power source in the series ensures that every bulb gets the same amount of power. So, the brightness of the lights remains primarily the same. But it can be troublesome if one light goes out; the whole circuit will have its impact. Maybe you need to relocate every light to ensure the source of the problem.

Again, wiring lights in series refer to evenly sharing the same voltage among all the lights. Therefore, you must be aware that you use the same type and wattage of bulbs in each light fixture. Otherwise, the result will end up uneven lighting in the area you wire them.

Now follow these below steps to wire several bulbs to one power source in series:

First Step

Turn off the main power outlet to have a risk-free wire connection to the lights. It will ensure you are working without risking any injuries.

Second Step

You may need supportive tools like wire, wire cutter, wire stripper, and electrical tape. So, you should arrange them.

Third Step

You should decide the number of bulbs you want to wire in the series. It will give you ideas about the required length of wire.

Fourth Step

Now, cut the wire to the correct length using the wire cutter. You know, it is all about the measurements.

Fifth Step

Strip all the ends of the wire with the wire stripper. It helps to connect the fixtures quickly.

Sixth Step

Connect the red (positive) terminal of the first light to the second light’s black (negative) terminal. Follow the same for all the lights you have decided to connect.

Seventh Step

Lastly, connect the black terminal of the last light and the red terminal of the first light using a wire to the power source.

Eighth Step

It would help if you wrapped the electrical tape around all the connections to ensure they are secure.

Final Step

Turn on the switch and check if everything is working correctly.

9 Steps to Wiring Multiple Lights to One Power Source with Parallel Method

In contrast, the parallel method is effective if you want lights still to work if any of them goes out. It can keep you worry-free if one light is not lighting. Therefore, this wiring method is less effective as all the lights require their own power from the same source. You may see that one light is more vivid than others.

Wiring lights in parallel is a simple and easy way to add lighting to any room. You can have your lights up and running in no time following these steps:

First Step

Turn off the primary source of power to work with the lights. You can prevent possible electrical hazards by doing it. Again, you may need several materials like light fixtures, wire, wire connector, and a screwdriver.

Second Step

After having all the materials, you should mark where you want to install the light fixtures. Hence, you must pick a spot close to an electrical outlet.

Third Step

Measure the distance from the electrical outlet to those fixtures. It gives you an idea about the length or quantity of the wire you need for this task.

Fourth Step

Bring the wire cutter and cut the wire for the connection. Ensure the length is correct; otherwise, you may face difficulties wiring the lights.

Fifth Step

If you want to connect the fixtures faster, use the wire stripper. So, strip all the ends of the wire.

Sixth Step

Connect all the red (positive) wires together and all the black (negative) wires together.

Seventh Step

Use the wire connector to twist and secure all the wires together. Then, connect the cables to the light fixtures using the screwdriver.

Eighth Step

Take the electrical tape and secure all the joints or connections in the parallel line.

Final Step

Switch on the power to the outlet and see if the lights are turned on correctly.

Conclusion

How to wire multiple lights to one power source? Isn’t this task easier?

Obviously, the method you choose totally depends on your needs. It would help to consider all the benefits and disadvantages of each wire connection method. However, multiple wiring lights to one outlet is a great way to save energy and money.

One more thing you should consider that always turn off the power source before starting the job. Otherwise, you or your family may remain in danger.

Thanks a lot for reading this post.