How many projects are on your home improvement checklist? The average American has nine projects on their list. These projects range from minor tasks to major overhauls.
A common item on the list is moving an electrical plug. If you know how to move an electrical outlet, you can take care of this task yourself.
Keep reading to learn how to move that inconvenient outlet.
Turn Off the Power
Let’s start with a safety task. You should always turn off the power when you work on anything electrical. Skipping this step can easily put you in the hospital.
Locate the breaker in your home and turn off the switch that controls the outlet you want to work on. Then use a voltmeter to confirm that the power is off to the outlet.
Prepare the New Outlet Spot
You’ll need to cut a square into the drywall where you want your new outlet. Use your electrical box to trace around, so you create the right shape and size hole.
Install the New Wire
If the wire is long enough, you can move the current wiring to the new location. You’ll need to do this from the attic or basement and then run the wire to the new location.
If the wire isn’t long enough, you’ll need to install a new wire in the wall. Splice an inch of insulation off of the new wire and splice it with the old wire.
Use side-cutting pliers so you can create a secure connection by twisting the wires together. Then cap them with wire nuts.
Install the Box
Thread the wire through your electrical box and mount the box into the wall. Tighten the box screws down so that it’s flush with the wall.
Connect the Receptacle
You now need to connect the wire in the wall to the wires on the back of your plugs. Connect the black wire to the copper or hot screw.
Connect the white wire to the silver or neutral screw. Connect the copper wire to the ground or green screw. Then screw the plugs into place with a Philips screw.
Mount the Plate
The last step is to screw the faceplate onto the electrical box. Plug in a lamp, turn on the breaker and test your new outlet.
Hire a Professional
Working with electricity can be dangerous and create a fire hazard. If you’re not 100% confident, it’s best to hire a licensed electrician. That way, you can have confidence that the job is done right.
You Know How to Move an Electrical Outlet
Now that you know how to move an electrical outlet, this is one home improvement project you can check off of your to-do list. Before you get started, remember that safety should always come first.
Always turn off the supply of power before you start working on any electrical device in your home.
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