If you're wondering how to fix an electrical outlet, you may be surprised to learn that it is a manageable task for some DIY enthusiasts. However, you must remember that working with electricity carries inherent risks, so consult a professional electrician if you ever feel unsure or uncomfortable handling the task. Here's how to earn another notch in your DIY toolbelt with this guide on outlet replacement.
How to Fix an Electrical Outlet
Whether you have a dead outlet or one showing signs of wear, replacing it is essential to prevent potential electrical hazards and ensure uninterrupted access to power. Remember, it bears repeating: hiring a local electrician is best if a project like this is beyond your comfort zone. It's always better to be safe than sorry.
Turn Off the Power
Replacing an electrical outlet begins with turning off the power to the outlet. Go to your circuit breaker box—often found in the basement or utility closet—and switch off the circuit that controls the outlet you'll be working on. Then, use a voltage tester to confirm that no power flows to the outlet.
Remove the Outlet Cover
This step exposes the outlet and the screws that secure it to the electrical box. Remove the screws holding the outlet cover in place. If you plan to reuse the cover and screws, use your masking tape to secure the screws to the cover and put them aside. This will spare you the trouble of searching for those teeny screws later.
Remove the Outlet
Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the screws that secure the outlet to the electrical box at the top and bottom of the unit. Gently pull the outlet away from the wall. Avoid tugging too hard to prevent damage to the connected wires.
Disconnect the Wires
Before you disconnect any wires, note how they are connected. This will make it easier when you're installing the new outlet. For your convenience, take a photo with your phone.
Remember, outlet wires come in different colors, each serving a specific function. Keep this infographic handy when working with electrical wires.
Before you remove the wires, it's crucial to double-check for voltage with your tester, even if the power is off and you've tested before. This is a safety measure to prevent any potential shocks. When you’re sure there’s no power, gently remove the wires from the outlet.
Inspect the Wires
Look for any wear or damage to the wires, such as fraying, nicks, or discoloration. Remember, damaged wires can lead to poor connections or even electrical hazards. For coated wires, you want to ensure the color coating that acts as insulation is intact and not striped too far back. Typically, you need about 3/4 inch of exposed wire.
Strip the Wires
If the wire ends are damaged or there is not enough exposed wire to make a good connection, you’ll need to strip them using wire strippers. The tool has different holes to accommodate various outlet wire gauges, including 12- to 14-gauge household wiring.
Position the wire in the appropriate hole on the wire stripper, aligning the point where you want to cut.
Squeeze the handles on the strippers to cut through the insulation, then gently pull the tool toward the end of the wire.
Strip about 3/4 inch of insulation.
The insulation should slide off, leaving clean, exposed copper wire.
Inspect the ends to ensure no nicks or damage to the copper wire. Damaged wires should be trimmed back and stripped again.
Prep the Wires for Connection
Use your needle-nose pliers to straighten the ends of the wires, making it easier to connect them securely to the new outlet. If necessary, form small hooks at the ends of the wires to wrap around the screw terminals. Clean any oxidation on the exposed wire ends with fine-grit sandpaper or a wire brush to ensure a good electrical connection.
Install the New Outlet
To safely replace an electrical outlet, you need to match the amperage of the new outlet with the old one. Check the old outlet for markings indicating its amperage, usually stamped on the body. Also, check the circuit breaker for the outlet's circuit, as the switch's amperage rating should be on the switch. Many new appliances need a 240v outlet rather than 220v.
Next, connect the wires to the new outlet, using your earlier photo for reference. The black or red hot wire goes to the brass screw, the white or gray neutral wire to the silver screw, and the green or bare copper ground wire to the green screw. Tightly secure the wires under the screws.
Afterward, insert the outlet by carefully pushing the wires back into the electrical box and secure the new outlet with screws. Then attach the outlet cover screwing it into place.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Installing a new outlet in an existing spot depends on your comfort level and experience with electrical work. It is a great way to save on the outlet labor costs associated with a pro install, which ranges between $125 and $200.
However, whether replacing an indoor or outdoor outlet, hiring a professional electrician guarantees a job done right. Mistakes in electrical work lead to severe hazards, including electrical fires and injury. A professional will ensure the project is up to code and safe, offering reassurance and potentially saving you from costly repairs in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
To determine if an electrical outlet is blown, look for visible signs of damage, like burn marks or melted plastic. If not, try plugging in a few different devices to confirm that the outlet is not working. You can also use a voltage tester or multimeter to check for power—a no-reading means there's an issue. Lastly, check your circuit breaker or fuse box to see if the outlet was tripped, and if so, reset it. If none of this works, you may need to replace your outlet.
If one plug in your outlet works but the other doesn't, it could be due to a few reasons. The outlet might have a loose or damaged internal connection on the non-working side. Another possibility is that the outlet is a split receptacle, with one half controlled by a wall switch that might be turned off. Additionally, debris or damage inside the non-working plug could prevent a proper connection. If you can't identify the issue, remember to prioritize safety. Replace the outlet or consult a professional electrician to ensure safety and proper functionality.
Deirdre is a seasoned DIYer and home improvement writer. She believes in the transformative powers of deep cleaning and painting to revitalize any space. Her articles have appeared in HomeLight, The Spruce, Realtor, and more.
Deirdre is a seasoned DIYer and home improvement writer. She believes in the transformative powers of deep cleaning and painting to revitalize any space. Her articles have appeared in HomeLight, The Spruce, Realtor, and more.
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