Introduction: How to Make Electrical Pigtails
This is a basic tutorial on what electrical pigtails are and how to make them.
Disclaimer: Always use multiple sources and do your homework before performing any electrical work. Also, make sure all work is done within national and local code.
Step 1: Pigtails
Cut 6 inch lengths of THHN or unsheathed Romex wire. Strip 1/2 inch of the PVC jacket from each end.
Step 2: Loop
Loop the bare copper wire at one end.
Step 3: Secure
Secure the loop to the electrical unit and fasten. A switch is being used in this example.
Step 4: Multiple Pigtails
In this example a pigtail is secured to 2 switches. These will then be connected to the main Romex wire pictured. This will allow power for both units.
Step 5: Twist
Twist the wires together with a lineman pliers. Twist in a clockwise direction because this is the same direction used by the wire connector cap.
Step 6: Cap
Twist on a wire connector cap.
Step 7: Complete
Pigtails have now been used to connect two switches to a wire. Another common application is to use pigtails to extend wire that may have been cut too short.
Comments
Question 1 year ago on Introduction
Hiii.. questions for you.. is it much different to put 3 or 4 pigtails on one line?
… can I put 3 on one line? I currently have 2 light switches that turn my porch light and light post lights out front. I’d like to add a line for a small garden pump and run a switch inside to it.
Also would I need heavier Romax because I’m doing 3 lines?
Actually, I think there is a receptical outside that connects to the line with the lights outside. Sorry - don’t mean to confuse you!