When it comes to home improvement, some projects are easy and others require a little skill. Changing sockets is relatively easy, but should only be done when you feel very confident and comfortable working with electricity. Electricity is very dangerous and can be fatal if you do not take proper precautions. If you don’t want to do it yourself, hire a professional electrician or handyman to replace the outlet. However, if you’re confident you can do the job, there are some quick and easy steps you can follow to make the repair easier.
1. Inventory
Before turning off the power or opening the electrical panel, take the time to gather everything you need. You’ll need an insulated flathead screwdriver, a wire cutter, a voltage meter, a new socket, and maybe a cell phone or digital camera with a camera. Once you’ve got everything you need, it’s time to get started.
2. Circuit breakers
The first step in any type of electrical work is to make sure the power is off. Turn off the circuit breaker at the outlet being repaired. If you are not sure which circuit breaker is cutting power to that circuit breaker, turn off the power to the entire house. If the refrigerator door is left closed, it will be closed for half an hour to prevent food spoilage. Better safe than sorry, especially when it comes to electrical outlet screw. With the breaker closed, check the output current by inserting only part of the voltmeter lead into the short side of the receptacle to ensure that no current is flowing.
3. Removal
Removing old sockets is easy. Remove the electrical board from the wall with a screwdriver. Remove and remove the upper and lower cabinet sockets. Gently pull the wires away from the wall, being careful not to slip them. You can also take a picture of the wires when they’re installed so it’s easier to remember how to reconnect them to the new outlet. Then pull the plug from the old socket.
4. New points of sale
Once the old outlet is disconnected, it’s time to plug in the new outlet. First, plug the ground wire into the outlet. Then add the white wire. If there are more wires, connect them further. Put the outlet back into the wall and make sure the ground wire does not touch or touch other wires.
5. Go back to your seat
Screw the outlet back into the electrical box using the screws above and below the outlet. Place the cover over the socket and screw it on. Finally, turn the breaker back on and check the outlet and plug in any lights or appliances that you think are working properly.
