How To Change An Electrical Outlet: A Beginner's Guide

Written By admin Tuesday, March 28, 2023 Edit

Replacing Old Outlets from www.chanish.org

Introduction

Changing an electrical outlet may seem like a daunting task, but it's actually a simple and straightforward process that anyone can do with the right tools and knowledge. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps to change an electrical outlet and ensure that it's done safely and correctly.

Step 1: Turn Off the Power

Before you start, it's important to turn off the power to the outlet you're going to be working on. Locate the breaker box in your home and turn off the circuit that controls the outlet. If you're not sure which circuit controls the outlet, you can use a circuit tester to check.

Step 2: Remove the Old Outlet

Once the power is off, use a screwdriver to remove the cover plate from the outlet. Then, unscrew the outlet from the electrical box and gently pull it out. Be sure to take note of which wires are connected to which terminals on the outlet.

Step 3: Install the New Outlet

Next, take your new outlet and connect the wires to the appropriate terminals. Typically, the black wire goes to the brass-colored terminal, the white wire goes to the silver-colored terminal, and the green or bare wire goes to the green-colored terminal. Use wire nuts to secure the wires in place.

Step 4: Attach the Outlet to the Electrical Box

Once the wires are connected, carefully push the outlet back into the electrical box and secure it with screws. Then, attach the cover plate back onto the outlet.

Step 5: Turn the Power Back On

Finally, turn the power back on to the circuit you turned off earlier. Test the outlet to make sure it's working properly by plugging in a device.

Safety Tips

Changing an electrical outlet can be dangerous if not done correctly. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

Always turn off the power before working on an electrical outlet.
Use a circuit tester to make sure the power is off.
Wear rubber-soled shoes and avoid working on wet surfaces.
Never touch bare wires with your hands.
Make sure all wires are securely connected and insulated with wire nuts.

Conclusion

Changing an electrical outlet is a simple and easy DIY project that anyone can do with the right tools and knowledge. By following these steps and safety tips, you can ensure that your new outlet is installed safely and correctly. If you're not comfortable working with electricity, always consult a licensed electrician.