How to Fix a Recessed Electric Outlet

Recessed outlets present a safety risk because they can't connect with a protective faceplate.

Recessed outlets offer risks to home safety and are an eyesore to the decor of a room. In most cases, a recessed outlet isn't capable of carrying a faceplate and instead leaves exposed electrical connections that are a hazard. An extension adapter can be purchased from most home improvement and hardware stores so you can safely extend the outlet further to the wall in the same electrical box and attach a secure faceplate.

Things You'll Need

• Voltage tester
• Screwdriver
• Pliers
• Electrical tape
• Rubber extension plate
• Outlet faceplate

Instructions

1. Switch off the power to the electrical outlet at the main electrical circuit box. Check the outlet with a voltage tester to verify that the power is off before continuing.

2. Unscrew the top and bottom screws of the outlet in the electrical box with a screwdriver and place them somewhere safe for later use. Grasp the outlet around the middle sides with pliers and pull it out of the box. Pull slowly to extend the bunched up wires without damaging them.

3. Check the wiring connections to the outlet. Ensure that the wires are tightly clamped to the poles on the side of the outlet and tighten the screws as needed. Wrap black electrical tape around the wire-connected poles to insulate them. Examine the rubber coating over the rest of the wires and cover any tears or gouges in the material with electrical tape.

4. Slip a rubber extension plate onto the back of the electrical outlet. These are similar to rubber bands and fit snugly around the unit and protrude to the back of the box. Push the wires back into the box carefully so that they don't pull free of the outlet or sustain other damage.

5. Adjust the outlet in the box with pliers and align the mounting holes in the outlet with those in the box. Replace the screws removed earlier and tighten them down securely.

6. Switch the power back on to the outlet at the main circuit box and test that the flow has returned with the voltage tester. Place an outlet faceplate over the top of the electrical box and tighten the center screw into the outlet to complete the finished look.

Tips & Warnings

• Even with the extension plate, don't over-tighten the outlet to the box. Position the outlet face flush with the wall.

• Never work with an electrical outlet without ensuring it has no electrical current flowing to it.

References

• "Complete Wiring"; Stanley; 2008
• "Better Homes and Gardens Big Book of Home How-To"; Better Homes & Gardens; 2006