How To Replace an Outlet
Replacing
an outlet is a simple and straightforward process. It's one the few
electrical jobs that, in most cases, does not require that you obtain a permit.
However, before proceeding, refer back to Household Electricity and familiarize
yourself with the basics of house wiring.
How to Replace
an 120 volt outlet
First observe all safety precautions. Electricity
is potentially lethal. Make sure the area you are working in is dry and that
the electricity has been turned off before you start. Use a current tester to
verify there is no residual electricity left in the wires.
1. Turn off both the branch circuit and the main power
at the service panel. Work in the daytime so that you can use natural light
to light the work area. Also use a flashlight if needed.
2. Remove the plate and the outlet mounting screws.
3. Pull outlet with wires still attached about
4 to 6 inches out of the junction box.
4. Note the color of the wires and identify the
hot, neutral ground and device ground.
5. Unscrew the terminal screws that attaches
the wire to the outlet and remove the wire. Start with the hot, then the neutral
and finally the ground.
6. Examine the new outlet. Identify which wire
connects to which terminal. It does not matter which set of vertical screws
you attach the wire to. If the outlet does not have markings indicating the
polarity, then remember that the bright brass screw connects to your hot wire.
7. Using needle nose pliers, connect the ground
to the green terminal on the bottom of the outlet. Then connect the white wire
to the neutral terminal and finally the hot wire. The wire should be wrapped
completely around the terminal screws.
8. Finally, tuck the wires back in the junction
box and mount the outlet and the outlet plate.
NOTE: Make sure the outlet is rated for
the amperage of the circuit. Do not use an outlet rated at 15 amps on a 20 amp
circuit.
For more information about Electrical materials,
check out our Electrical Materials
Guide
