How to Strip Wire for Electric Outlets

In order to install an electrical outlet, you must first strip the electrical wires to expose the metal. If this is your first time stripping wires, relax. It's not as difficult as it sounds if you follow the steps carefully.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wire cutter or wire stripper

1. Locate the wires to strip. If necessary, mark the correct wires with a magic marker. You do not want to inadvertently cut the wrong wires.

2. Determine the cutting point. It is important to strip enough of the insulation so that approximately 2 inches of wire is exposed. If you are unable to guesstimate the 2-inch mark, take a ruler and measure the cutting point for accuracy.

3. Cut the wire insulation. Use either the wire cutter or wire stripper to score the outside of the insulation for removal. Once you've scored the insulation, continue to cut through the entire insulation. Be sure to cut through the insulation to the wire but not through the wire.

4. Pull off the protective coating. Once you've cut through the installation it will be easy to pull off. You might have to bend the wire a little bit to pull it off, but it should come right off.

5. Identify the wires. The black wire is the hot wire, the white wire is the neutral wire and the copper wire is the grounding wire. It is crucial to match the correct wires to the corresponding electrical outlet part.

Tips & Warnings

• If you inadvertently cut through the entire electrical wire, don't worry. Snip off the end of the wire and start all over again. Take it a little slower the second time around to avoid making the same mistake.