How to Replace an Outlet Overview
Has a GFCI plug in your home stopped working, or do you want to upgrade an existing one? Installing a GFCI electrical outlet is a simple job that anyone can do with the right tools and patience.
In this article, we’ll walk you through replacing light switches step-by-step so you can get your home back up and running quickly. We’ll provide you with a list of the materials and products you’ll need, explain what to do, and even give some tips and warnings to ensure your work is done safely and correctly. So, let’s get started!
Materials Needed to Replace an Outlet:
Installing an outlet is a relatively simple DIY job, but ensuring you have the right tools and materials before you start is essential. Here are the items you’ll need:
A screwdriver
Electrical tape
Light switch
Wire Cutters Step-by-Step Guide to Electrical Outlet Installation
This is a relatively simple project that anyone can do in just a few steps. Here, we’ll provide detailed step-by-step instructions on how to replace a light switch.
How to Do This Job (Step by Step) Without Missing any Step:
Switch off the power at the circuit breaker.
Use a voltage tester to ensure the electricity has been cut off.
Disconnect the old switch by removing the two screws.
Carefully disconnect each of the wires attached to the old outlet using a screwdriver and needle nose pliers.
Connect one side of each wire (black and white) to their corresponding sides on the new outlet, such as black goes back to black, white goes back to white.
Connect each ground wire, then use a wire cutter to trim any excess wiring protruding from either end of your new switch.Necessary Safety Precautions When Replacing an Electrical Outlet
It can be relatively simple to install an outlet. However, it’s still important to take safety precautions since electricity is involved. Here are some tips on replacing an outlet:
Double-check with a circuit tester or use a voltmeter to ensure the power is off.
Wear preventive gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and closed-toe shoes.
Cover the remaining exposed wiring with electrical tape before removing it from the old outlet.
Secure the new outlet to the wall junction box by tightening the screws and ensuring no play in the box or wires.How to Change Outlet Color Without Replacing Receptacle
One of the most overlooked ways to change the look of a room is with little changes like changing the outlet color. It is a small thing that can make your home feel new and fresh!
The easiest way to change the color of an outlet without replacing the receptacle is by using wall plates. These plates are usually made of thermoplastic and come in a variety of colors.
They can cover outlets and switches in a living room, bedroom, den, or bathroom. Choose a plate that complements the area’s furniture, wall finish, or wall hangings.
Depending on the style of your house, you can choose from decorative metal wall plates or ceramic ones that match your tile or hardwood floors. You can also find thermoplastic plates with a slot for wallpaper, which can blend into the wall and create a seamless look.
The next step is to connect the wires to their proper terminals. The outlet should have screws on each side that say either black (hot), silver (white), or green (bare). Hook your wires around each screw and pinch them tightly with needle nose pliers to close the loop. Then you can tuck the wirings and screws back into the box. This should take about 30 seconds.
How to Change a Switched Outlet to Always Hot
A switched outlet is ideal for appliances that need a constant power supply. The user can turn the switch on and off to control the flow of electricity.
Unswitched outlets, also called hot outlets, are perfect for devices that don’t need to be controlled by a switch. They’re ideal for most plug-in home appliances, including lights.
How to Change a Switched Outlet to Always Hot
If you’ve got a switched outlet in your house that needs to be changed to an always-hot one, it’s easy to do the job yourself. You need to make a few minor wiring changes at the switch/outlet box.
To start, remove the two screws that hold the switch or outlet to the electrical box. These are usually found at the top and bottom of the switch or outlet.
Now find the wires in the box that go to each screw, or “terminal.” They are usually labeled by some sort of identifying mark on masking tape wrapped around them.
For each wire with the same identifying mark, cut it into a long piece of wire at least 6 inches long. Twist these wires together and cap them with a wire nut (a piece of metal with stripped ends).
This pigtail splice is safe because it connects the wires in the circuit to each other. It’s also much easier to do than removing and reconnecting each individual wire at the switch/outlet box.
How to Bypass a Light Switch for an Outlet
If your home’s switch box has a light switch that controls an outlet, it is possible to bypass the switch and use an existing outlet without having to wire it from scratch. To do so, you’ll need a voltage tester, insulated pliers and a screwdriver.
A Problem With Combination Switches and Outlets
When you convert a light switch into an outlet, the circuit must be properly wired to ensure that the new outlet turns on when the switch is on. If this is not done correctly, the outlet will only turn on when the switch is in the “on” position — defeating the purpose of having a combination switch and outlet.
Better-quality switches and outlets can cost a few dollars more than cheaper versions, but they often offer back-wire features that rely on screws rather than a bendable wire for clamping. This makes it easier to secure the connection and helps prevent the wires from coming loose in the future.
Wiring a Light Switch: What to Do
When wiring a light switch, be sure to use a wire stripper and push the insulation off each end of the wire. Then, wrap the end of each wire around its terminal screw in a clockwise direction to ensure that the loop will close when you tighten the screw.
Then, connect the black hot wire from the switch to the receptacle’s green screw and the white neutral wire to the other screw. If the receptacle has a ground screw, connect the circuit’s bare copper wire to it or to a grounded box.
Change Your Outlet Today!
Replacing an outlet is a straightforward process requiring only some essential tools and materials. All it leads to is a few steps to have a brand-new outlet quickly. Remember always to stay safe and follow safety instructions when dealing with electricity, and dont forget to turn off the power before beginning to ensure your safety.
With these tips and advice, you have all the necessary information to complete this project quickly and easily.
