How to Make Wire Pigtails

Electricians of all skill levels employ wire pigtails as a reliable wire binding technique to lengthen the amount of wire in a circuit or to install a wall outlet. They also use pigtail connections in light switches and in the installation of dimmer switches. Before performing a pigtail wire connection or any electrical work, make sure the electricity is off and the job is in compliance with building codes.

Things You'll Need

• Wire stripper
• Six-inch length of insulated copper wire
• Two wire nuts

Show More

Instructions

1. • 1

     Strip one inch of insulation off both ends of the wire piece and off the ends of both wires being connected, using the wire strippers.

   • 2

     Twist together one end of the wire splice with the exposed end of the first wire, using a clockwise motion. Twist together the other end of the wire splice and the exposed end of the second wire.

   • 3

     Screw wire nuts onto each connection in a clockwise direction until snug.