Outlet wiring question


Hi everyone,

I hope you are all doing well.  I have installed a couple of upgraded outlets recently with very positive results.  I recently moved my rig to another part of our apartment, and I planned to install the upgraded outlet in the new location.  However, when I took the outlet out of the wall, I discovered that it had six wires going to it rather than the customary four.  It appears that the additional wires are for a light switch that is in a storage closet on the opposite side of the wall.  There are four wires attached as normal to the four screws on the sides of the outlet.  Then, there are two wires that go into holes in the back of the outlet.  

I know nothing about electrical wiring, so I thought I'd see if anyone had some guidance.  Does this set up preclude the use of an audiophile outlet?  Are there any that would allow this type of extra circuit to be wired in?  I appreciate any suggestions that you have.  

Thank you,
Scott
smrex13

Showing 3 responses by smrex13

I tried, but I couldn't find anything that specifically addressed the question I'm asking.  

Correct - at least the one outlet I tried did not have an obvious way to attach the third set of wires.  I can't tell by looking at the audiophile outlets on websites whether they would be able to accommodate the third set of wires.  If it can, then I can certainly wire it in the same way as the old one.  

@noromance Well, I guess I know slightly more than nothing, as I can replace a basic outlet.  

@djones51 - point taken.  I'm not going to try anything that I'm not sure about.  

Thanks for all the advice so far!
@yogiboy Thanks, that's what I was thinking.

@mijostyn Yes, I always turn the breaker off :).  Thanks for the insight.  There are actually 7 wires total - three white, three black, and the ground wire.  

I may just use another outlet in the room and then get a longer cable to the power strip/conditioner.  That would probably be the easiest route.