How to Replace an Old Outlet Safely

Introduction

Replacing an old, worn out electrical outlet is a project many homeowners take on to update their homes. However, working with electricity can be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. In this guide, I will walk through the step-by-step process to safely replace an old outlet.

Before You Start

Before replacing an outlet, there are some key safety steps to take:

Turn Off Power at the Breaker

The most important safety precaution is to turn off the power to the outlet at the breaker box. Every outlet should be connected to a circuit breaker - locate the correct breaker and switch it to the "off" position.

Test for Power

After turning off the power, test the outlet with a non-contact voltage tester. This handheld tool can detect if any electricity is still flowing to the outlet. If the tester lights up, there is still live power - go back and check the breaker.

Use Personal Protective Equipment

Work safely - put on safety goggles, gloves, and closed-toe shoes. This protects your eyes and hands from sparks or shards, and your feet from dropped tools.

Gathering Supplies

Before starting any electrical work, ensure you have the proper tools and components:

• Voltage tester - to double check the power is off

• Screwdrivers - both Phillips and flathead

• Wire strippers - to strip insulation off wires

• Needle nose pliers - to grab and bend wires

• Electrical tape - to insulate wires

• Replacement outlet - match amperage and number of ports

Removing the Old Outlet

With the power off and supplies at hand, you can now safely remove the old, faulty outlet:

Unscrew the Outlet Cover

Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the outlet cover screws and set them aside in a safe place. Pull the cover plate off.

Unscrew the Outlet

There will be two screws securing the outlet to the electrical box. Unscrew these with a screwdriver and pull the outlet out.

Disconnect Wires

You will see the outlet wires connected to the hot (black), neutral (white), and ground (green/bare copper) wires. Make note of these connections! Disconnect the wires from the outlet.

Installing the New Outlet

Now you're ready to wire up the new replacement outlet:

Connect New Outlet

Refer to your notes for proper wire connections. Connect the black hot wire to the brass screw, white neutral wire to silver screw, and ground wire to green screw.

Screw Into Box

With wires securely connected, carefully push outlet into the box and hold steady. The screws can touch the box - secure outlet with long screws.

Test Before Powering On

With outlet installed, do a final check that wires are tightened and tucked safely into the box. Put the cover plate back on.

Turn Power Back On

You're ready for the moment of truth!

Flip Breaker

Head back to the breaker box and switch the circuit breaker back to the "on" position.

Test with Voltage Detector

Use your non-contact voltage tester to confirm power is flowing to the outlet. Do not proceed until you verify electricity has been restored properly.

Test Outlet

Plug in a lamp or other appliance and turn it on. If the outlet works correctly without issues, congratulations - you have successfully replaced an outlet safely!

Safety Tips

• Never work on an outlet with the power still on
• Ensure electricity is off by testing with a voltage detector
• Disconnect and cap wires when outlet is removed to prevent contact
• Match wire connections exactly on the new outlet
• Double check screws are tight before restoring power
• Plug in a tester appliance before using the outlet normally

Replacing an old electrical outlet is a straightforward project that can prevent hazards and update your home. By following proper safety procedures, you can take on this electrical work safely and with confidence.