How To Install an Electrical Outlet in Basement Areas

If you’re at this stage, you already know that nothing looks or performs worse than an old shabby outlet.  They’re dangerous fire hazards, and they don’t even hold on to the plug!  Thankfully learning how to install an electrical outlet in basement areas is a simple 10-step procedure.

Step 1:  Shut the power off.  Don’t trust your breaker either; always use a voltmeter and check.

Step 2:  Unscrew and remove the faceplate.

Step 3:  Double check that the power is OFF!  Test the black wires, they’re the live ones

Step 4:  Pull the outlet out of the wall. 

Step 5:  Figure out what the colored wires mean:  black (live), white (neutral), green/bare (ground).

Step 6:  Figure out what the size of the wire means:  14 gauge (thin, used mostly for lighting, 15 Amps), 12 gauge (heavy, 20 Amps).

Step 7:  Note the wire configuration:  make sure everything you unwire, you wire back up.  Use masking tape to mark each wire.

Step 8:  Make sure you buy the correct outlet (12 gauge or 14 gauge)

Step 9:  Screw wires into new outlet.

Step 10:  Reinstall new outlet.

There it is!  How to install an electrical outlet in basement areas in 10 easy steps.  And while this process can save you a great deal of trouble and keep your living area more safe, make sure you are as careful as possible.  Electrocution is not pleasant.  If you are anticipating any more complicated wiring, this guide how to install an electrical outlet in basement areas will not cut it – get a professional.

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