How to Replace Wall Outlets Yourself

I recently decided to replace some of the old, worn out wall outlets in my home. As a DIYer with limited electrical experience, I wasn't sure where to start, but I did some research and was able to teach myself how to safely replace outlets on my own. Here's what I learned about how to replace wall outlets yourself.

Gather the Necessary Materials

Before getting started, you'll need to gather some basic materials:

• Outlet receptacles - Purchase new receptacles that match the voltage (120V), amperage (15 amps or 20 amps), and number of ports you need. Make sure they are UL approved for safety.

• Wire strippers - A basic pair of wire strippers are necessary for stripping the ends of the wires.

• Needle nose pliers - Good for loosening screws and gripping wires.

• Voltage tester - Essential for safely checking that the power is off before working.

• Phillips screwdriver - For removing the cover plate screws and terminal screws.

• Electrical tape - To cover stripped wire ends and secure connections.

• Flashlight - Helpful for seeing inside the electrical box.

• Circuit map - If you don't have one, draw a simple map of what outlets connect to which circuit breakers.

Turn Off the Power

Safety first! Before doing anything else, use your voltage tester to confirm the power is off to the outlet you'll be replacing. Turn off the correct circuit breaker, then check for power. Be sure to turn off the power at the breaker, not just the outlet switch. Remember to turn off the power to the entire circuit, not just one outlet.

Remove the Old Outlet

With the power safely off, you can now remove the old outlet:

1. Unscrew and remove the cover plate.

2. Unscrew the two hot screws attaching the outlet to the box. These are the brass-colored screws on the sides.

3. Unscrew the neutral screw which is the silver-colored screw near the bottom.

4. Carefully pull the outlet out from the box without bending or touching the wires.

Disconnect and Prepare the Wires

You'll see three wires attached to the outlet - neutral (white), hot (black), and ground (green or bare copper). Do not disconnect the wires yet! First you must identify and label each wire:

• The white neutral wire may be labeled. Verify this is the neutral.

• The hot wire is usually black. Double check it connects to a breaker.

• Identify the ground wire. Use a voltmeter if you're unsure.

Once you've labeled the wires, disconnect them one at a time using needle nose pliers. Straighten and trim the ends if necessary. Finally, strip about 1/2" insulation from each end.

Connect the New Outlet

You can now connect the wires to the new outlet receptacle:

1. Attach the ground wire to the green screw.

2. Attach the white neutral wire to the silver screw.

3. Attach the black hot wire to one of the brass screws.

4. Fold the wires neatly into the box, then screw the outlet securely in place.

Be sure to attach the proper wire to the matching screw - white to silver, black to brass, and ground to green. Screw them in tightly and double check your work.

Return Power and Test

You're almost finished! Here are your final steps:

1. Carefully tuck all wires into the box, leaving no exposed copper.

2. Put the cover plate back on, securely screwing it in.

3. Go turn the circuit breaker back on.

4. At the outlet, plug in a lamp or voltmeter and test that it works. If not, turn the power back off and check your connections.

If everything looks good, congratulations! You've successfully replaced the outlet. Follow basic electrical safety and periodically check your outlets in the future. Replacing worn outlets yourself can save money while improving the safety of your home's electrical system.