Single to Double Wall Switch Wiring

[Dennis Straussfogel]

Hello all,

I'm adding an exhaust fan (powered by the existing lighting circuit) to a bathroom and want to change the single light switch to double switches for fan and light. Is there any reason not to replace the existing 14/2 cable running to the switch box with a 14/3 to control light and fan (code/safety/difficulty). It would be a lot easier to draw a single replacement cable up through the existing holes/cavity than running a second 14/2 down to the new double-gang box. (The wall switch is on the outside wall of a sauna, so the wall is stuffed with insulation.) Thanks for any advice.

Denny

[Joseph Meehan]

That is fine. It would commonly be wired that way from the beginning.

[RBM]

The only difficulty would be if the existing cable is stapled, and can't be pulled out. If the fan is over a tub, it must be GFCI protected

[Dennis Straussfogel]

In article ,

"RBM" wrote:

Right, didn't think of it being stapled (ugh!)--I'll find out today. (Not over the tub/shower so no GFCI required.) Thanks to you and Joe M. for your replies.

Denny