How to Wire An Outlet: 6 Steps to Success

If your electrical outlet isn’t working, you’re likely wondering how to wire an outlet to get it back in working order. However, electrical work can be hazardous to your home and personal safety, so it’s best to hire a local electrician to wire or rewire outlets. 

If you’re set on DIYing this task, exercise extreme caution and follow safety precautions. Follow our step-by-step guidelines to safely and successfully wire an outlet. 

Prepping to Wire an Outlet

Before installing an outlet in your home, there are a few things you can do to prepare the area and ensure that the installation process goes smoothly. First, decide where you want to install the outlet and ensure that there is enough space in the electrical box for a new outlet. 

Before adding a new outlet, check the wiring in the area to ensure that it can handle the additional load. If you're unsure, you should consult a licensed electrician before starting electrical work. This procedure assumes you have an existing electrical box in place as well as electrical wiring with the correct number of conductors—two insulated wires and one ground wire, with all three typically encased in a plastic jacket. 

It also assumes your electrical outlet is at the end of a circuit. If your outlet is in the middle of a circuit, you will need to account for two additional wires in the outlet box—another hot and another neutral wire— and use “pigtail” wiring rather than direct wiring. If you have young kids at home, consider taking this opportunity to install a childproof outlet.

Safety Precautions to Follow 

Safety is a top priority when it comes to electrical work, and there are several precautions you should take before wiring an outlet. First and foremost, if you encounter any issues or feel unsure about your abilities, don’t hesitate to hire a licensed electrician for help. Taking these precautions will help ensure a safe and successful wiring project.

• Always turn off the power to the circuit in question by flipping the corresponding breaker in your electrical panel. 

• Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm that the power is off before starting electrical work. 

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including gloves and safety glasses, to protect yourself from potential hazards. 

• Avoid working in wet or damp conditions and ensure that your workspace is well-lit and uncluttered. 

• Never touch exposed wires with bare hands or wet tools. 

• Be careful not to nick or cut the wires during stripping or cutting.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro 

When it comes to wiring an electrical outlet, it’s best to hire a professional electrician to ensure the work is done safely and efficiently. If you have experience working with electrical systems and feel confident in your abilities, doing it yourself can save on labor costs. This is true for installing an outdoor outlet, too. However, if you make mistakes during the wiring process, it can be dangerous and potentially lead to a fire hazard.

Hiring a professional electrician near you will give you peace of mind knowing that the job is done correctly and up to code. They can also identify any potential issues and make recommendations for improvements, which can prevent future problems. Additionally, a professional electrician can save you time and hassle since they have the necessary tools, experience, and knowledge to complete the job quickly and efficiently. 

Another factor to consider is cost. If you hire an expert, the cost to install an electrical outlet can range from $75 to $485, depending on the scope of the job and the electrician’s rate. If you decide to go the DIY route, you can expect to pay about $25 to $50 per outlet.