How can I replace my outlet? ?

Question

I have an outlet, and it's almost completely broken. I can plug plugs in it, but it's hard, and it falls out almost instantly.

How can I replace the entire outlet? Could I do it myself, or would I need an electrition? How much would it cost?

Answer 1

JC is right. Find the breaker or fuse for the outlet and turn it off (by having something plugged into it and seeing when it goes off).

A replacement is pretty standard from a hardware store or most large department stores (don't be tempted by the really cheap ones ($0.99) since they'll just have the same issue you're trying to solve).

You need a flat bladed s***w driver and (sometimes) a wire cutter/stripper.

Remove the cover plate (it can be re-used, but if it''s also cracked, now's a good time to swap it out too).

You find a small box in the wall containing the receptical.

Remove the 2 screws holding the old receptical into the box. They're pretty long, so just keep twisting! An electric screwdriver really speeds this part up.

Pull the receptical out of the box. It will be supported by the stiff wires that come in from the back of the box. Disconnect the black and white wires. Most will be held by screws - you don't have to take them all the way out, just loosen them enough to pull the wire free. In some cases the wire is attached by being pushed into a small hole that has a gripping spring in it. If you have that style, it is best to just cut the wire as close to the connection as possible. If there is a third copper wie (ground) disconnect that as well.

Now position the new receptical close to the box to see how the wires are going to go (just like the old one!). If necessary, clean up the ends of the wires by clpping any mangled parts off and stripping the insulation back as necessary (some new recepticles have a "strip" guide so you can see how long the copper part should be ~5/8").

Now s***w the wires on or plug them into the little spring clip holes (not my choice, I'm old school!). Like JC says, Black = hot = copper,

White =neutral = silver

If there was a third bare copper wire (ground) re-attach that as well. Bare wire = ground = green s***w.

Now push the receptical back into the box - this is where those long screws come in handy. The springy wire won't always let you get the box in all the way. Make sure that there is room in there for the wires (use a flashlight if you aren't sure), get the screws started and they will pull (push?) the box in all the way. Secure the cover plate and re-energize!

Answer 2

Go to the hardware store and buy a new receptacle. TURN THE POWER OFF!!!!!!!! to the outlet you want to change. Remove the wires from the outlet. The black wire is the hot it goes to the brass s***w. The white is the neutral it goes on the silver s***w. The bare wire is the ground and it goes to the s***w on the end of the outlet. s***w the outlet back in the box, put the cover on and turn the power back on.

Answer 3

Hey this looks like the other people answered really well so you're all set to do this yourself.  This is a job electricians could do for a lot of money but it's really easy enough to do yourself.   If you want to, have an adult with you to ensure your safety but really once the power is off there is nothing to be afraid of... You can have it back up and running in a couple minutes! Think of how you'll feel knowing you did it yourself! Good luck!