How to replace an outlet?

[Anaticus]

I was wondering how easy it is to replace an outlet. I want to change the ones I have around my hallway and staircase landings to something that has built in nightlight either as the first socket or in between the two.

Something like this: http://www.pegasusassociates.com/products/NightLights/Images/LEDInWallNightLights/PL-7019-lg.jpg
Does it require much work?

[virgoan]

that depends on how familiar you are with electricity...It's a VERY simple job...anybody could do it...if you are familiar with it...it will only take a minute...if not...then 10 minutes should be more than enough...

just be careful...turn off the power before touching it...

[ccdude]

I was wondering how easy it is to replace an outlet. I want to change the ones I have around my hallway and staircase landings to something that has built in nightlight either as the first socket or in between the two.

Something like this: http://www.pegasusassociates.com/products/NightLights/Images/LEDInWallNightLights/PL-7019-lg.jpg
Does it require much work?

IMO
When it comes to electricity
If you have to ask you shouldnt do it by yourself. Find a friend that knows and get them to help you.

[deep]

Got to agree with CC....it's incredibly easy, but the first time should be with someone who knows what they're doing. Once you see it once, you'll know it forever.

[CSK'sMom]

I'll +1 as well. We just replaced all the switches and outlets in our kitchen. Hubby actually taught our 15 yr old and 11 yr old how to do it. :)

[don242]

I was wondering how easy it is to replace an outlet. I want to change the ones I have around my hallway and staircase landings to something that has built in nightlight either as the first socket or in between the two.

Something like this: http://www.pegasusassociates.com/products/NightLights/Images/LEDInWallNightLights/PL-7019-lg.jpg
Does it require much work?

Very straightforward to do since it is just a straight replacment though as suggested it is still a good idea to have someone who has done it before with you to help you through the first time.

A couple things to be aware of should you do it yourself:

1. When removing the wire from the old and putting on the new be careful not to nick the wire. Electricity travels on the surface of the wire so nicks create a point where heat is generated.

2. If the wires are going to be connected via the side screws (which should be done) then make the wire in a "U" shape (not "V" for same reasons as #1) and make sure to curve the wire around the screw the same direction as you tighten the screw to ensure tightening pulls the wire in as you turn.

3. This point probably is not important for a hallway or staircase (more for kitchens) but if one of the outlets has a switch that controls one half of it then you must make sure you break the tab on the live side of the outlet so it is two separate connections. Like I said, probably not relevant for what you want to do but just be aware in case this is the situation.

4. Of course, turn off the power. Probably guessed that one. But in odd circumstances two lines go into one box so even if the power was turned off for the outlet, there may still be a live line using the same box. Probably not the case but when you remove the outlet and you see another line joined in the box completely separate from the line the outlet is on, just be cautious.

5. Pay close attention to what wires go where when you remove the old. Do not reverse them.

[loudsubz]

Brass to Black (HOT) and Silver to White (NEUTRAL)

[CompWizrd]

Also, watch out that some idiot didn't violate the electrical code the last time it was wired up.. any wiring that continues through the box has to be pigtailed off.. so you don't have the outlet doing the joining.. basically, if you could remove the outlet and the rest of the circuit still works, that's good.

i have to fix a bunch of mine because they decided to use the outlet as a coupler/joiner.

[RonniePixels]

Also, watch out that some idiot didn't violate the electrical code the last time it was wired up.. any wiring that continues through the box has to be pigtailed off.. so you don't have the outlet doing the joining.. basically, if you could remove the outlet and the rest of the circuit still works, that's good.

i have to fix a bunch of mine because they decided to use the outlet as a coupler/joiner.

I was under the impression that while pigtails are preferred, using the outlet as a junction does not violate code, provided you use one screw terminal for the incoming wire and the push-wire mechanism for the outgoing (or vice-versa). This is useful if you have a smaller box and/or more connections in the box. Maybe this is Canadian code while it's fine in the US?

[don242]

I was under the impression that while pigtails are preferred, using the outlet as a junction does not violate code, provided you use one screw terminal for the incoming wire and the push-wire mechanism for the outgoing (or vice-versa). This is useful if you have a smaller box and/or more connections in the box. Maybe this is Canadian code while it's fine in the US?

I am not 100% sure either what is correct. When I did it in school and apprenticed (briefly) I was always told to pigtail. However, I have done a bit of work in our old home, new home and friend's homes that are all newer homes and I have come across manay that aren't pigtailed so it leads me to belive that it isn't code and either way is acceptable.

[CompWizrd]

I am not 100% sure either what is correct. When I did it in school and apprenticed (briefly) I was always told to pigtail. However, I have done a bit of work in our old home, new home and friend's homes that are all newer homes and I have come across manay that aren't pigtailed so it leads me to belive that it isn't code and either way is acceptable.I'll see if i can find my copy of the electrical code. My dad was a licensed electrician, (though he hasn't been licensed since retiring nearly 20 years ago at the age of 49), and I called him up when I found out the idiots did my house like that, and that's what he said about the wiring.

You should always be using the side screws, as even though it might be code valid, the side screws give you a much better connection, and there was something about aluminum wiring not being allowed in the push wire connections.. that one he wasn't too sure on , as he rarely dealt with aluminum wiring.

[don242]

You should always be using the side screws, as even though it might be code valid, the side screws give you a much better connection, and there was something about aluminum wiring not being allowed in the push wire connections.. that one he wasn't too sure on , as he rarely dealt with aluminum wiring.

I was always taught to use the side screws but a few homes I have seen used the push wire connections. So again, not sure if it is code or just better practice.

[bionicbadger]

I was always taught to use the side screws but a few homes I have seen used the push wire connections. So again, not sure if it is code or just better practice.

not better practice, just faster. No need to screw anything, just strip the end of the wire and jam it in the hole, goes fast when you have 50 outlets to do. If you are doing it for your own place, I'd use the screws...

[BuildingHomes]

You should always be using the side screws, as even though it might be code valid, the side screws give you a much better connection, and there was something about aluminum wiring not being allowed in the push wire connections.. that one he wasn't too sure on , as he rarely dealt with aluminum wiring.

Aluminum has a tendency to expand and contract very easily with heat. Over time aluminum wiring worked its way lose, shorted out and potentially caused a fire. This is one reason why it is a question on your insurance policy.

Also, avoid using the backstabs. They are less reliable than the screw terminals according to a number of electricians that I know.