How to Replace an Electrical Outlet: A Step-by-Step Beginner Guide

In This Article

Working Time: 30 mins - 1 hr
Total Time: 1 - 2 hrs
Estimated Cost: $25 to $50
Yield: New outlet

If any of the outlets in your home are cracked, chipped, or otherwise broken, they should be switched out immediately. Similarly, if the outlets are worn out or feel loose when they are being used, then it's a good idea to update to a new outlet.

Replacing an electrical outlet is a straightforward job that most DIYers can handle—learn how to change an outlet yourself.

Safety Considerations

Proper protective equipment is essential, including closed-toe shoes, long pants, a long-sleeve shirt, insulated gloves, and safety glasses. Avoid wearing any loose jewelry or clothing, and always make sure to turn off the electricity before you begin.

Not only does turning off the electricity stop accidental electrocution, it also prevents power surges, voltage fluctuations, and short circuits while you work. If you are not comfortable working on the electrical system, then it's best to call in a professional electrician to assess the situation and complete the necessary work to replace or repair the outlet.

What You'll Need

Equipment / Tools

Voltage tester
Screwdriver
Wire strippers

Materials

Electrical tape
New outlet

Instructions

overhead view of tools for changing out an electrical outlet — Credit:
The Spruce / Kevin Norris

How to Change an Outlet

Turn Off the Power

Credit:
The Spruce / Kevin Norris

This is the most important step in the project: turn off the power to the electrical outlet. Go to the electrical panel in your house and flip the associated switch so the power to that outlet is off. (There's often a labeled chart inside the electrical panel for which room or appliance correspond to each switch.)
Check the Outlet Is Off

Credit:
The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Once the power is off, check that the outlet is no longer live. The surest way to test is with a voltage tester, but you can also double-check the outlet is not receiving electricity by plugging a lamp and turning the light on.
Remove the Outlet Cover

Credit:
The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws and remove the cover (also known as the plate or faceplate) from the outlet. Set the plate and screw aside in a safe place so that they don't get lost while you work.

With the cover off, you should see the part of the outlet you plug things into with a screw at the top and bottom.
Unscrew the Outlet

Credit:
The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Unscrew the top and bottom parts of the outlet, and carefully pull the outlet out of the wall without damaging the wires. (The wires should stay attached and going into the wall.)
Take a Picture of the Wiring

Credit:
The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Take a picture or even record a video to help keep track of where each wire goes. There should be a black wire that carries the voltage from the electrical box, a white neutral wire, and a green or copper grounding wire.
Disconnect the Outlet From the Wires

Credit:
The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Disconnect the wires by using a screwdriver to loosen the screws connecting the wires and the outlet.

Use wire strippers to trim any frayed, worn, or otherwise damaged wires. This will help ensure that the new outlet doesn't experience any shorts or connectivity problems.

If the wiring looks like it's in good condition, you don't need to trim the wires, just set the old outlet aside and proceed with the installation.
Reattach Wires to New Outlet

Credit:
The Spruce / Kevin Norris

With the new outlet in hand, attach the black wire, white wire, and green or copper grounding wire in the same configuration as they were wired to the old outlet. Refer back to your pictures or video confirm the configuration of the wires.
Screw in the Outlet and Plate

Credit:
The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Slide the wires and outlet back into the wall receptacle, then secure the outlet with screws at the top and bottom. Next, reinstall the plate, or switch it out for a new faceplate that matches the color of the new outlet.
Turn Power on and Test the Outlet

Credit:
The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Turn the power back on at the electrical panel, then use a voltage tester to verify that electricity is running to the new outlet. Plug in a lamp or another electrical device to confirm that the outlet is working properly.

FAQ

Can I replace an outlet myself?

Most DIYers are capable of replacing an electrical outlet without professional help, though some people may not feel comfortable working with electrical systems, which is a valid concern, given the potential risk for electrocution. Take proper precautions, wear appropriate safety gear, and work slowly and carefully to stay safe while replacing an electrical outlet.
How do you fix a burnt electrical outlet?

A burnt electrical outlet indicates a short circuit in the system. Turn off the power, remove the burnt outlet and any burned wiring, then install new wiring and a new arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) outlet or ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet.
Also, check the circuit breaker to ensure it was not the source of the short circuit in the first place. Contact a professional electrician if the problem persists.
Can you change an outlet without turning off the power?

It isn't a good idea to replace an outlet while it is still live. While some professional electricians may be trained and experienced enough to be able to do this without repercussion, it's always a risk that DIYers don't need to take.