Getting Started on Electrical Outlets for Property Owners

Electricity in the home is essential in today's modern world. From powering the appliances in your kitchen to giving you entertainment in the living room, electrical outlets are much needed and required. Installing or replacing an electrical outlet is a delicate job, so it's ideal for a homeowner to consult with a residential electrician in Austin to discuss the type of outlet needed. Furthermore, as a property owner, you want the job done properly to ensure the safety of your home and of others who will use this outlet.

Before you start, it's important to know the basics of an electrical outlet and inspect the area where you will be installing it. Most electrical outlets have two vertical slots where you plug in the cords of your devices. They are also known as receptacles and come with three prongs. In some cases, the outlet will come with a switch or outlet cover. It's important to check the local codes in 78757, Austin - Texas to understand the requirements for outlets and how to properly install them. Once the inspection is complete, you can start the project.

The first step is determining where the outlet needs to be installed. Many times, this is already done when installing a tv or a computer. If not, look for reliable areas to hardwire or connect the outlet. Make sure the space you're working with is big enough for the outlet and investigate the possible behind-the-wall obstacles.

Next, turn off the main power in the circuit breaker of the home. You should never work on an outlet or other electrical project with live power. Once you have done this, remove the outlet cover and begin dismantling the existing outlet. Make sure to take note of the wiring pattern and the number of wires. When in doubt, you can always take a picture of the existing outlet to maintain a reference while you're working.

The third step is to disconnect the existing wiring in the wall. This step may require the help of a residential electrician in Austin. Afterward, you may need to use an outlet tester to check whether the outlet is properly wired. The outlet tester will show whether the wiring is wired correctly.

Now, you are ready to feed in the electrical wires in the outlet. Use the existing wiring scheme from the old outlet for reference or follow the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure to connect the two white wires to the silver marked terminals. Additionally, connect the two black wires to the brass marked terminals, and the ground wire to the green terminal. Once the wires are connected, cover the outlet with the outlet cover. Often, with some outlets, there is a bare ground wire that needs to be connected for the outlet to work. This is crucial for grounding the electric current, and if not done properly can be a cause of significant damage in your home.

The last step is to restore the circuit breaker. Now you're ready to plug in a light or other electronic device and test the outlet to make sure it works. If everything works up to your standards, replace the outlet cover and pat yourself on the back for successfully running a full electrical installation.

Working with electricity can be dangerous. It's essential to take all precautionary steps when dealing with any electrical work. If a homeowner lacks the experience or confidence to do the work himself, a residential electrician in Austin can be of great service and ensure the job is done in a professional and correct manner.

Electrical Outlet

Residential Electrician

Circuit Breaker