How to Replace an Electrical Outlet
Short answer: Turn off the breaker, prove the outlet is dead at both receptacles with a tester, photograph the wiring, and move each wire to the matching terminal on a new outlet of the same rating: black to brass, white to silver, bare to green. Stop and call an electrician if the wiring is different or damaged.
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Time
- 30 to 60 minutes
- Updated
- November 9, 2026
What is causing it?
Outlets wear out when the contacts loosen and plugs fall out, or they crack or get damaged. A loose, warm or scorched outlet is a fire risk. This guide covers replacing a standard 15 or 20 amp outlet with the same type on the same circuit.
Tools and materials
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Tools
- Non-contact voltage testerCheck price on Amazon
- Plug-in outlet testerChecks the wiring after the swapCheck price on Amazon
- Insulated screwdriversCheck price on Amazon
- Wire stripperCheck price on Amazon
Materials
- Tamper-resistant outlet, same amp rating (15A or 20A)Most codes require tamper-resistant outlets in homesCheck price on Amazon
- Outlet cover plateCheck price on Amazon
How do you replace an outlet? Step by step
Turn off the breaker and verify
Plug in a lamp, turn off the breaker until it goes dark, then check both receptacles with the lamp or a tester. Leviton advises that if the power is not off at both outlets, you should stop and call an electrician.
Check for GFCI or AFCI requirements
Outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, laundry areas, outdoors and some other areas generally need GFCI protection, and many newer codes add AFCI protection. If the old outlet was a GFCI, replace it with a GFCI and follow its line and load instructions.
Photograph and remove the old outlet
Remove the cover and mounting screws and pull the outlet out. Retest the wires. Take a photo. Note whether wires go to both sets of screws (power continues to other outlets) and whether the small tab between the brass screws is broken off (a split or switched outlet).
Connect the new outlet
Black (hot) to brass screws, white (neutral) to silver screws, bare or green ground to the green screw. Loop wires clockwise under the screws. If the old outlet's tab was broken off, break the same tab on the new one.
Mount and test
Fold the wires in, mount the outlet, attach the plate, turn on the breaker, and check it with a plug-in tester. The lights should show correct wiring.
Safety notes
- Do not use the push-in back-stab holes with 12 gauge wire or if the outlet does not allow it.
- Do not install a three-prong outlet where there is no ground wire unless it is GFCI protected and labeled per code. Ask an electrician.
- Aluminum wiring needs an electrician.
- Permit and licensing rules vary; check local requirements.
When should you call a pro?
- There is no ground, the wires are scorched, or the box is damaged.
- The tester shows an open ground, reversed polarity, or other fault after the swap.
- You need a new outlet location, a 240 volt outlet, or a new circuit.
Frequently asked questions
What is a tamper-resistant outlet?
It has internal shutters that block objects other than plugs, which helps protect children. The National Electrical Code has required them in most new home locations for years.
15 amp or 20 amp outlet?
Match the old outlet. A 20 amp outlet has a T-shaped slot and belongs only on a 20 amp circuit with 12 gauge wire.
Why do plugs fall out of my outlet?
The internal contacts have worn out. Replace the outlet; a loose connection can overheat.
Sources
Steps are based on these manufacturer and safety references. Your product's own manual comes first.