Sockets are an integral part of any apartment. They serve to connect electrical equipment that we use in everyday life. Sometimes it may be necessary to repair or replace outlets, for example, if they:
- stop working;
- start falling out of the wall;
- you simply want to replace them with outlets of a different design.
To avoid potentially more issues with outlets in the future, it is necessary to provide professional care.
How to Replace Sockets?
You can call an electrician to repair, fix, or replace sockets in a few clicks or get a whole home warranty service by applying to the Home Alliance website. Their specialists will quickly prepare and send you a cost estimate for the work, after which they will coordinate the time of the electrician’s visit.
However, if you decide to replace an outlet by yourself, follow this guide to make it properly.
Preparatory Measures
Before you begin repairing sockets, you need to take several preparatory steps. First of all, turn off the power supply to the room where you will be working. This can be done by turning off all the circuit breakers on the electrical panel. Additionally, you can use the tester to check if the power is off in the area where you will replace an outlet.
Removing the Socket
The next step is to dismantle the socket. To do this, you will need a screwdriver to remove the screws that secure the outlet to the wall. After you have removed the outlet from the wall, disconnect the wires from the contacts on the back of the outlet.
Pay attention to the color of the wires: usually, the green wire is connected to the ground contact, the white wire to the neutral, and the black or red wire to the phase terminal.
Replacing or Repairing an Outlet
Once the outlet is removed, you need to decide whether it needs to be replaced or repaired. If the socket is damaged, for example, the housing is broken or the contacts are damaged, then it must be changed. Otherwise, you can try to repair it.
Assembly and Installation
If you decide to replace the outlet, purchase the same brand and model as the old one. This will ensure maximum compatibility and reduce the likelihood of installation problems. After purchasing a new outlet, connect the wires to the contacts on the back of the outlet.
Make sure the connections are tight and not loose. Then attach the outlet to the wall using screws. Typically, sockets have two screws on the top and bottom, but some models may have more bolts for improved retention.
Functionality Check
After installing a new outlet or repairing an old one, you need to check its functionality. Connect the electrical equipment to the outlet and check its operation. If everything works fine, then you have successfully repaired the socket.
Conclusion
Repairing outlets in an apartment can be done by yourself if you are familiar with the basics of electrical engineering. However, if you have any doubts, hire the services of an electrician to avoid possible problems and damage to electrical equipment. Don’t forget that safety should come first when doing electrical work.
