Electrical – What size plate for 2 1-gang boxes side by side

electricalreceptacleswitch

Whoever put the electrical boxes in our kitchen before we moved in put two separate 1-gang boxes side by side (an outlet and a toggle) instead of just using a 2-gang box. The plates covering them were two single plates that had the edges cut off so they could butt up against each other.

I would like to replace the plate, but a standard plate won't fit. The outlet and toggle are about 1/2" too far apart for a standard plate to fit. Is there a specific plate made for this kind of configuration or will I have to just install a new 2-gang box and patch around it? If there is a larger plate, what should I be looking for?

Best Answer

Short answer: No

Whoever installed the boxes didn't learn how to do electrical work properly. So consequently, you have two single plates that have been trimmed.

If you were to find a plate like this it would be a custom item and may cost more than it is worth.

Either you will have to keep the trimmed plates, or you will have to replace the two single gang boxes with a 2-gang box.

Good luck!