How to Replace an Outlet

Old, broken or loose electrical outlets can be dangerous and need to be replaced. Here are simple instructions on how to do this.

Tools needed:
Medium flat head screwdriver
Medium Phillips head screwdriver
Wire strippers
Circuit tester

Materials:
Replacement outlet

Step By Step:

Step 1 – Read the instructions that come with the new outlet. If you are uncomfortable
working with electricity, call a licensed electrician
Step 2 – Turn off the breaker for the circuit you are working on. Put a piece of tape over
the breaker so that no one turns it on accidentally.
Step 3 – Use the voltage tester to be sure that the power is off at the outlet.
Step 4 – Remove the faceplate.
Step 5 – Unscrew the top and bottom screws from the outlet and pull it out.
Step 6 – Recheck the black wires with the voltage tester to be sure that the power is off
at the outlet.
Step 7 – Detach the wires from the old outlet and re-attach them to the new outlet in the
same locations that they came from. The black wires attach to the gold screws
and the white wires attach to the silver screws. The ground wire attaches to
the green screw.
Step 8 – Push the outlet back into the box and secure with the two screws.
Step 9 – Re-attach the faceplate