How to Replace Receptacles With No Ground
Most electrical receptacles include a hot, neutral and a ground wire, but some homes may have receptacles that do not have a ground wire included. This is more common in older homes. A ground wire will trip the breaker in the event of a short and is a recommended safety measure, but in older homes with no grounds, it requires rewiring the entire circuit or home. A receptacle without a ground is easy to replace yourself. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Flat head screwdriver
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Circuit tester
- Receptacle
- Wire strippers
Instructions
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1
Turn off the breaker to the circuit that you will be working on. If you are unsure about the breaker that controls that particular circuit, turn off the main breaker to the house.
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2
Use a circuit tester to ensure that there is no power going to any of the receptacles on that circuit. If a circuit tester is not available, plug in a lamp or other electric device to check that the power is off.
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3
Use a screwdriver to remove the screw holding the faceplate on and pull the faceplate away from the wall. Set it aside or discard if the new receptacle comes with one.
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4
Use a screwdriver to remove the two screws from the top and bottom of the receptacle. Pull the receptacle away from the wall to expose the wires behind it.
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5
Use masking tape to label each wire to show which screw it belongs under. Most receptacles are color-coded, but in an older one, the color may be faded away. The silver screws on one side are the neutral; the green screw on the same side will not be used as it is the ground screw. The bronze screws on the opposite side are for the hot wires.
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Loosen the screws that are holding the wires. Pull the wires away from the screws and discard the old receptacle.
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Use the wire strippers to remove 1/4 inch of coating from the wire if needed. If the old wire is not damaged, this will not be necessary. Use the strippers to form a hook in the end of the wire.
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Place the hooked wire under the appropriate screws. Tighten the screws carefully, making sure the wire is firmly in place.
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Replace the receptacle into the wall and replace the two screws that hold it in using a screwdriver. Replace the faceplate and use the screwdriver to tighten the screw carefully. Turn the power back on and test the receptacle to ensure it is working.
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Tips & Warnings
When placing wire under the screws in the receptacle, it is best to face the open end of the hook in the direction you will be turning the screw. This will prevent the wire from backing out.
Never touch the bare copper on an electrical wire. There may be feedback from another circuit that will shock you. Handle the wire on the coated area only.
