Rewiring electrical outlets in your home can be intimidating, but it's an important DIY skill that can save you money on electrician fees. With proper precautions, the right tools, and a methodical approach, you can safely rewire outlets without burning your house down.
Step 1: Turn Off Power and Verify It's Off
Before touching any wires, you need to turn off power to the outlet you'll be working on. Start by flipping the circuit breaker for that outlet. If you're not sure which breaker corresponds to the outlet, turn off the main breaker to cut power to the whole house.
To verify power is off, plug in a lamp or phone charger and make sure it doesn't turn on when you flip the switch or plug it in. You can also use a non-contact voltage tester to detect any live wires. Working on live wires can lead to electrocution, so this first step is critical.
Step 2: Remove the Outlet Cover and Unscrew the Outlet
With the power off, you can start disassembling the outlet. Remove the cover plate screws and pull the cover plate off. This will expose the outlet screws that hold the outlet in place. Unscrew these screws and gently pull the outlet out from the electrical box.
Be careful not to let the wires fall back into the box as you pull the outlet out. You'll want the wires to remain attached and accessible.
Step 3: Disconnect the Wires
Now comes the most technical part - disconnecting the wires. You should see two sets of wires attached to the outlet - the feed wires that run to the electrical panel, and the fixture wires that run to a light fixture or another outlet.
- For a simple update, you can disconnect the fixture wires and leave the feed wires intact.
- For a full rewire, disconnect both sets of wires.
Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to grip each wire end and carefully detach it from the corresponding screw terminal. Take notes or take photos to remember where each wire was placed.
Step 4: Prepare the New Outlet and Connect Wires
With the old outlet disconnected, you can prep the new one for installation. Start by stripping about 1/2 inch of insulation from each wire end. Make sure no copper strands are exposed.
Attach each wire to the matching terminal on the new outlet. Usually, the feed wires connect to the gold or black screw terminals, while the fixture wires connect to the silver screw terminals. Follow your notes so each wire goes to the correct terminal.
Step 5: Secure the New Outlet and Restore Power
Once all the wires are securely fastened to the outlet, you can remount it in the electrical box. Carefully tuck the wires into the box and tighten the outlet screws. Put the cover plate back on, securely fastening each screw.
When the outlet is mounted, go back to the breaker box and switch the power back on. Return to the outlet and confirm it's working properly by plugging in a lamp or device. If it doesn't work, turn the power back off and check your wiring connections.
With the right safety gear like insulated gloves and boots, a little electrical knowledge, and focus on each step, you can successfully rewire outlets and make upgrades to your home. Just be 100% certain the power is off before touching any wires.
Common Rewiring Scenarios
Here are a few common reasons you may need to rewire an electrical outlet:
1. Upgrading to GFCI outlets
GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets have built-in circuit breakers that provide protection from shocks and electrocution. Upgrading your kitchen, bathroom, laundry, and outdoor outlets to GFCIs improves safety. The process involves disconnecting the old outlet and wiring a GFCI outlet in its place.
2. Replacing worn or damaged outlets
Outlets eventually wear out from repeated plugging and unplugging. Loose connections can spark and lead to fires. Replacing visibly damaged outlets maintains safety. Make sure to match amperage and voltage ratings when swapping outlets.
3. Adding new outlets and circuits
Running new wiring to place outlets in new locations enables you to rearrange and add appliances and electronics. This involves running cable through stud bays or joists and wiring new boxes. Hire an electrician if you need to install a new circuit breaker in the main panel.
4. Converting two-prong to three-prong
Three-prong outlets have a ground wire for improved safety, especially for electronics. Converting from two-prong involves replacing the outlet and adding a ground wire, which could mean new cable runs back to the panel. Hire a pro if your home lacks proper grounding.
Safety First When Rewiring Outlets
Rewiring outlets comes with electrical risks, especially shock and fire hazards. Here are key safety tips:
- Turn off power - Always flip the breaker first before touching any wires.
- Use a voltage tester - Verify power is off by testing wires for current.
- Wear insulating gloves - Protect your hands from accidental contact with live wires.
- Work carefully - Rushing leads to loose connections and shorts.
- Connect wires securely - Loose wires can arc, spark, and cause fires.
Rewiring outlets without proper precautions can lead to electrocution, fires, or even burning your house down. If you're uncomfortable working with electrical wires, hire a professional electrician. But with preparation and care, you can safely upgrade the outlets in your home.