subject: Electrical Repairs - Installing A New Electrical Outlet [print this page] The electric wiring of your house can be highly deadly if not done correctly or done by someone who isn't an approved electrical engineer. Electricians are qualified to make correct repairs to wiring and may be able to safely install new light fittings or electric outlets. Not hiring a professional electrical craftsman might end in damage to your wiring or a fatal fire, and this goes for even the allegedly straightforward procedures like installing a new electric outlet. When installing a new outlet, you should take all of the mandatory steps to ensure your safety.
The most evident and critical is to close off the power at the breaker because an electrical shock can kill. Never perform any upkeep on a hot wire. There are voltage testers available you can place on a wire and it'll tell you if electricity is running thru it. These will be available at any shop, and are commended if you're doing any electric work.
You also will wish to take under consideration the tools you are using and if you have got a close by gas line, as to not produce a spark that may fire up the gas. If you're replacing an older outlet, you will notice that it only has 2 wires, and doesn't have a grounded wire. To replace old outlets, you'll have to confirm it is grounded. You may use the metal outlet box as a place to connect the ground wire if it is hooked up to a grounded passage.
Confirm it isn't just attached to the wood, because this will mean the passage isn't grounded and can be highly dangerous. Be certain to check with your local electric codes. There are particular specs for electric outlets, particularly in kitchens where microwaves and other major appliances are plugged. Outlets must meet or surpass your local electric codes to guarantee the safety of your house and family. While it may appear straightforward to connect one or two wires and flip a switch, it is crucial that the process is done correctly to avoid danger.
Something as easy as installing an outlet box to the wall stud can be done incorrectly, causing the outlet to be uneven or at the wrong depth. Ensure the box is level and fits well against the stud. You may use either nails or screws, but ensure the box isn't leaned to give off a professional appearance.
If you have coloured wires, remember that red wires connect to red wires, white connect to white, and black to black. The green wire is the ground wire - confirm it attached to a grounded piece of metal. If you only have one colour of wire, you will need to check and ensure you connect the correct wires together.
Once the outlet is screwed into the box and the cover is over the outlet, you can turn the power on to check it. If it doesn't trip the breaker, you can connect an electrical appliance or device to it and see how it works. If you have no experience with electrical wiring, you should hire an electrician. They can do the job quickly, safely and properly - giving you peace of mind that your house will not be damaged by electrical fire.
