How to Replace a GFCI

A GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlet provides an extra level of protection against electrical shock in wet areas such as laundry rooms, bathrooms, kitchens and outdoor areas. Even though a circuit breaker will offer some protection from electrical shock, the GFCI outlet has a quicker response and prevents electrical shock by immediately shutting itself off if an electrical short is detected. GFCI outlets should be tested at least once a year for proper operation.

Things You'll Need

• Flat blade screwdriver
• GFCI outlet

Instructions

1. Turn off the circuit breaker at the breaker panel that supplies power to the GFCI outlet that you will be replacing.

2. Remove the plastic trim cover by twisting the screws out counterclockwise with a small flat blade screwdriver. Be careful not to damage the gasket.

3. Loosen and remove the screws holding the outlet into the electrical box by rotating them counterclockwise with a flat blade screwdriver.

4. Pull the outlet out of the box by hand. Label the LOAD, LINE and ground wires that connect to the back of the outlet before removing them. This will enable you to reinstall the wires onto the new GFCI outlet correctly.

5. Remove the wires by loosening the retaining screws counterclockwise with a small flat blade screwdriver and pulling the wires off the outlet.

6. Connect the ground wire to the new GFCI outlet by tightening the retaining screw with a small flat blade screwdriver in a clockwise direction.

7. Connect the LINE side wires to the new outlet by tightening the retaining screws with a small flat blade screwdriver in a clockwise direction.

8. Connect the LOAD side wires to the new outlet in the same fashion as the LINE side wires.

9. Carefully push the new GFCI outlet into the electrical box. Secure the outlet to the box by tightening the original screws in a clockwise direction with a flat blade screwdriver.

10. Install the gasket in between the outlet's plastic trim cover and the GFCI outlet with the two original screws.

11. Turn the circuit breaker back on at the breaker box that powers the GFCI outlet.

12. Retest the new GFCI outlet to ensure proper operation.

Tips & Warnings

• Test a GFCI outlet by pressing in on the TEST button. This will deactivate the GFCI outlet. You can test this by plugging a good appliance into the outlet. If the GFCI fails the test, replace the outlet. Return the outlet to operation by pressing in on the RESET button.

• Place a piece of tape over the circuit breaker switch so that it does not get turned back on while you are working on the circuit.

• Severe injury or electrocution can occur if you work on an electrical circuit that has not been disabled at the breaker box.

References

• Mind Connection - GFCI Outlet Replacement