Electrical outlets are something we use everyday without much thought. However, there are some common mistakes homeowners make when installing, replacing, or using outlets that can create safety hazards or other problems. As a beginner DIYer, I have made several mistakes myself that I have had to correct. Here are 9 of the most common beginner mistakes with electrical outlets and how I fixed them.
1. Using the Wrong Size Breaker
One of my first mistakes was using a 15-amp breaker for a 20-amp outlet. The breaker size needs to match the outlet capacity to prevent overheating. When I checked with a voltmeter, I found the outlet was only getting 15 amps of power.
How I Fixed It
I turned off the power, changed the breaker to a 20-amp , and verified the outlet was now getting the full 20 amps. Using a properly sized breaker prevents damaging the outlet or wiring.
2. Not Using Cable Clamps
When I installed new outlets, I originally just drilled holes and fed the cables through without using cable clamps. This put strain on the connections inside the outlet.
How I Fixed It
I purchased plastic cable clamps that insert into the outlet box and secure the cables. This prevented loose connections and reduced fire risk. Always anchor cables with approved clamps.
3. Forgetting to Attach the Ground Wire
One of my outlets had an "open ground" because I forgot to connect the ground wire in the outlet box. This created an electric shock hazard.
How I Fixed It
I turned off the power, opened the box, and attached the bare ground wire to the green screw on the outlet. Testing with a multimeter verified it now had a good ground. Every outlet needs a properly attached ground wire.
4. Not Securing Cables Completely
I thought I secured the cables well, but they were still loose inside the outlet box. This created messy wiring and risk of detached hot wires touching the box.
How I Fixed It
I purchased plastic cable fasteners that tightly bundle cables entering the box and prevent any slack. Neatly bundling cables keeps wiring organized and safe.
5. Forgetting to Turn Off Power at the Breaker
When changing an outlet, I forgot to turn off the circuit breaker. I got a dangerous shock when I removed the old outlet! Always turn off the power at the breaker before working on outlets.
How I Fixed It
I turned off the right breaker, verified power was off with a voltage tester, and proceeded safely. Never attempt any electrical work with the power still on!
6. Not Having Enough Outlets on a Circuit
Initially I connected too many outlets to a single 15-amp circuit. This caused overloading when multiple devices were plugged in.
How I Fixed It
I redistributed the outlets so there were no more than 10 outlets per 15-amp circuit. Overloading circuits can cause fires. Read your electrical code for circuit capacity.
7. Using Regular Bulbs in Dimmers
I installed a dimmer switch but left regular incandescent bulbs in the fixtures. The bulbs burnt out quickly from the reduced voltage. Dimmer switches require compatible dimmable LEDs.
How I Fixed It
I installed dimmable LED bulbs rated for the dimmer switch. Check bulb and dimmer switch compatibility to prevent premature bulb failure.
8. Not Matching Plug Orientation
One outlet had an upside down plug orientation compared to the rest. This could overload the neutral wires if devices were plugged into different oriented outlets in the room.
How I Fixed It
I rewired the outlet to match the hot-neutral orientation of the other outlets in the room. Keep plug orientation consistent for all outlets on the same circuit.
9. Using the Wrong Wattage Bulbs in Fixtures
I installed 100-watt bulbs in a fixture rated for only 60 watts. This could melt the insulation and start an electrical fire. Always check fixture wattage ratings.
How I Fixed It
I replaced the bulbs with 60-watt bulbs that matched the fixture's limits. Using lower wattage bulbs prevents overheating fixtures.
Making these common mistakes taught me a lot about outlet safety. By fixing them properly, I now have safe and robust electrical outlets in my home. How many of these beginner mistakes have you made? Let me know in the comments if this article helped identify issues you need to fix in your home!