Prioritizing Safety: Your First Step
The Most Critical Safety Precaution: Disconnecting Power
The very first step, and perhaps the most crucial, is to disconnect the power to the circuit you’ll be working on. This might seem obvious, but it’s a step that can’t be skipped. Locate your home’s circuit breaker panel. This is usually found in a basement, garage, or utility closet. Carefully identify the circuit that controls the outlet you’re replacing. You might need to consult your home’s electrical panel map, if available, or use a process of elimination. Once you’ve identified the correct breaker, flip the switch to the “off” position.
Confirming the Power is OFF: A Necessary Check
Never assume the power is off just because you’ve flipped the breaker. You need to verify it! This is where a non-contact voltage tester (NCVT) comes in handy. An NCVT is a small, handheld device that detects the presence of voltage in wires and outlets without requiring any direct contact. Insert the probe of the NCVT into both the top and bottom slots of the outlet you’re working on. If the NCVT lights up or beeps, the power is still on, and you need to double-check your breaker. If the NCVT remains silent, you’ve successfully turned off the power. This is a critical step, and it is vital to make certain there is no current flowing through the electrical wires.
Protecting Yourself: Safety Gear is Essential
While working with electricity, always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from any potential debris. Consider wearing insulated gloves as an extra layer of protection. It’s far better to be safe than sorry when dealing with electrical circuits.
Gathering Your Tools and Materials: What You Need for the Job
Now that you’ve prioritized safety, it’s time to gather the necessary materials and tools. Having everything prepared before you start the installation makes the process smoother and more efficient.
Essential Materials
An electrical outlet with USB power ports: Choose an outlet that matches the amperage rating of the circuit you’re working on. This is often a fifteen-ampere or twenty-ampere circuit, but it’s important to verify. You can find this information marked on the circuit breaker itself or the old electrical outlet. Ensure the USB ports have the necessary charging capabilities for your devices (typically at least two amps).
Screwdrivers: You’ll need both a Phillips-head screwdriver and a flathead screwdriver. These are used to remove and install the outlet, as well as tighten wire connections.
Wire strippers/cutters: This tool allows you to safely remove the insulation from the electrical wires.
Wire connectors/wire nuts: These are small plastic caps that are used to securely connect the wires together. They are sized by wire gauge.
A non-contact voltage tester (NCVT): This is essential for verifying the power is off.
Electrical tape: This is useful for wrapping wire connections, especially if you are working in a tight space.
A pencil: This can be used to mark your work if needed.
Helpful Optional Items
An outlet tester: This tool plugs into the outlet and will indicate whether the wiring is correct.
Where to Purchase Your Supplies
These items can be easily found at any local hardware store or home improvement center. Many online retailers also offer a wide selection of electrical supplies.
Commencing the Installation: A Step-by-Step Guide
With all your materials and safety precautions in place, you’re ready to begin the installation. Follow these steps carefully.
Preparing the Workspace: Removing the Existing Outlet
Remove the cover plate: Carefully remove the cover plate from the existing outlet.
Unscrew the outlet from the electrical box: Unscrew the screws that secure the outlet to the electrical box. The screws are often on the top and bottom of the outlet.
Gently pull the outlet out of the box: Once the screws are removed, carefully pull the outlet out of the electrical box. Be gentle to avoid damaging the wires. This will expose the wires connected to the old outlet.
Wiring the New Electrical Outlet with USB Ports
Identifying the Wires: Before disconnecting the wires, take a moment to familiarize yourself with their colors. In most cases, you’ll find the following wire color codes:
Black wire: This is the hot or live wire, carrying the electrical current from the breaker.
White wire: This is the neutral wire, completing the electrical circuit back to the breaker.
Green wire or bare copper wire: This is the ground wire, providing a path for electricity to safely return to ground in case of a fault.
Stripping the Wires: Using your wire strippers, carefully strip about half an inch of insulation from the ends of each wire. Be careful not to nick or cut the wires themselves. Ensure the wire is clean and ready for connection.
Connecting the Wires: This is the most crucial step.
Connecting the hot wire: Connect the black wire (hot wire) to the brass screw or designated terminal on the new outlet. The outlet will usually have markings to indicate the hot terminal. If the outlet has two brass screws, the black wire can connect to either one. Ensure the connection is secure, but do not overtighten the screw.
Connecting the neutral wire: Connect the white wire (neutral wire) to the silver screw or designated terminal on the new outlet. The outlet will also have markings to indicate the neutral terminal. This is the other terminal. Make certain the connection is tight and secure.
Connecting the ground wire: Connect the green wire or bare copper wire (ground wire) to the green screw or ground terminal. This screw is often located at the bottom of the outlet. Make certain this wire is securely fastened.
Using wire connectors: If the new outlet has “pigtails” (short wires), use wire connectors (wire nuts) to connect the corresponding wires from the electrical box to the pigtails. Twist the wire nuts clockwise until the wires are securely connected.
Tighten screws properly: After inserting the wire under the screw, firmly tighten the screw to create a secure connection. A loose connection can be dangerous. Do not overtighten.
Securing and Mounting the New Outlet
Carefully tuck the wired outlet back into the electrical box: Ensure the wires are neatly tucked into the box to avoid pinching them.
Secure the outlet to the box: Secure the outlet to the electrical box using the screws provided. Tighten the screws until the outlet is flush with the wall.
Final Steps: Finishing the Installation
Attach the cover plate: Attach the cover plate to the outlet, ensuring it is flush with the wall.
Turn the circuit breaker back on: Return to the breaker panel and flip the switch for the outlet’s circuit back to the “on” position.
Testing and Troubleshooting: Verifying Your Work
After the installation is complete, it’s time to test your work.
Testing the Outlet’s Functionality
Testing for Correct Wiring: Use an outlet tester to ensure the outlet is wired correctly. Plug the outlet tester into the outlet. The lights on the tester will indicate the wiring status. The tester should show that everything is properly connected.
Testing the USB Ports
Testing the USB ports: Plug your phone or tablet, or another USB charging device, into the USB ports of the new outlet. Check to see that it is charging.
Troubleshooting Potential Problems
Outlet not working: Double-check that the breaker is on, that the wires are correctly connected, and that the outlet itself is properly installed. Use the outlet tester to verify.
USB ports not charging: Make certain the device is plugged in correctly and the USB cable is functional. Check the outlet to see if it is charging, if a second device is charging, then test the initial device.
Tripping the circuit breaker: Immediately turn off the breaker. Carefully inspect the wiring for any loose connections, pinched wires, or incorrect connections. A short circuit will cause the breaker to trip.
Common Problems and Simple Solutions: If the outlet does not work, inspect the connections to make certain the wires are secured tightly. Verify the breaker is in the ‘on’ position. If there is no current, double check the wires are properly connected to the outlet and the ground is properly connected.
Important Considerations and Potential Upgrades: Taking the Next Step
There are several additional considerations and possible upgrades you should be aware of.
Matching the Amperage: When purchasing an outlet, always make certain it is compatible with the existing circuit’s amperage rating.
The Condition of the Electrical Box: Ensure the electrical box is in good condition. If it is damaged, it must be replaced.
Outdoor Installations: For outdoor installations, consider using a weatherproof outlet designed for exterior use.
GFCI Outlets: In areas prone to moisture, or kitchens, you can install a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet for added safety.
Professional Help: If you have any doubts about your abilities or are working with complex wiring, don’t hesitate to contact a licensed electrician. Electrical work should only be performed when you are certain of your capabilities.
Conclusion: Enjoying the Upgrade
Installing an electrical outlet with USB power ports is a rewarding DIY project that can greatly enhance your home’s convenience. By following the steps in this guide, paying close attention to safety, and taking your time, you can successfully replace an outlet and enjoy the benefits of built-in USB charging. Remember to take all the necessary precautions to guarantee your safety and the functionality of your updated electrical system.
