How to Hook Up a 110 Electrical Outlet
Whether you are working on a newly constructed house, addition or simply remodeling a room to maximize use, new projects can bring a lot of excitement and satisfaction. With new construction one of the main components is the electrical wiring. Adding additional outlets to your room will allow the convenience and access to power from any location. Electrical wiring can also be done with little expense. But knowing how to hook up a 110 electrical outlet the right way is important. Safety should always come first. Once complete, you'll have learned a new skill and added value to your home. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Electrical outlet (receptacle)
- Outlet plate cover
- Electrical box
- Measuring tape
- 14/2 electrical wire
- Screwdriver
- Utility staple gun
- Drill
Instructions
-
-
1
Terminate power to the main breaker box. Using the power meter and following the manufacturer guidelines, test the line to ensure that the power is off.
-
2
Locate an open bay in the main breaker box. Plug the 15 amp breaker into the box securely.
-
-
3
Take one end of the 14/2 electrical wire and strip back the outer shielding about 4 inches, or as needed. This will reveal three wires: black (hot), white (neutral), and green (ground). Strip back the insulation on the black and white wiring about 1 inch. Attach the black and white wiring to the appropriate terminals in the breaker box and the 15 amp breaker as directed by the manufacturer instructions. Connect the green wire to the main ground in the breaker box.
-
4
Locate the general area where the new electrical box will be located. Route the 14/2 wire down the stud as needed and drill any appropriate holes to reach the outlet location. Note the outlet should be about 18 inches above the floor to abide with typical electrical outlets in homes. Using the staple gun attach the wiring to the studs; take care not to run a staple through the wiring.
-
5
Mount the electrical box on the stud with the included mounting hardware and screwdriver. Pop out one of the knock outs with the screwdriver. Pull the wire down through the pop out hole and leave an extra 6 inches. Cut the wire.
-
6
Strip about three inches of the outer shielding. Separate the three wires and strip about 1 inch of the insulation off the white and black wires.
-
7
Looking at the back of the receptacle, attach the white (neutral) wire to the right side screw. Attach the black (hot) wire to the left side screw. Attach the green (ground) wire to the green screw to ground the receptacle.
-
8
Mount the receptacle inside the box with the included screws. Attach the cover plate over the outlet and turn the power on at the main breaker box.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Safety should always be top priority. Never perform any electrical work without consulting a certified electrician and follow the building codes local to your area.
