Replacing an outdoor outlet is an important electrical project that requires safety precautions and electrical know-how. This guide will walk you through the entire process of replacing an outdoor outlet, from turning off power and removing the old outlet, to wiring and installing a new weatherproof outlet. With the right materials and proper technique, you can upgrade your outdoor space with a durable new outlet.
What You’ll Need
Before starting this project, make sure you have the following materials:
- New outdoor outlet cover and receptacle rated for outdoor use. Look for units that are weatherproof and designed for wet locations. GFCI protection is recommended.
- Phillips and flat head screwdrivers
- Needle nose pliers
- Wire strippers
- Voltage tester
- Electrical tape
- Wire nuts
- Flashlight
- Circuit finder (optional)
- Junction box (if replacing the old box)
Safety Gear
Be sure to protect yourself with safety gear including:
- Safety goggles
- Work gloves
- Electrical tape to wrap around wire nuts
Turning Off Power
The first step is to turn off power to the outlet you’ll be replacing. Here’s how to do this safely:
- Go to your main electrical panel and locate the circuit breaker or fuse powering the outdoor outlet.
- Switch the circuit breaker to the OFF position or completely remove the fuse.
- To be certain power is off, plug in a lamp or tester device into the outdoor outlet. If the outlet is dead, then you can safely start work.
- If you’re unsure which breaker is connected to the outlet, use a circuit finder tool or turn off the main power shutoff switch.
With power off, you can now start the outlet replacement process.
Removing the Old Outlet
Follow these steps to remove the existing outdoor outlet:
1. Unscrew the Outlet Cover
Use a Phillips head screwdriver to unscrew and remove the weatherproof cover plate from the outdoor box. You may need to pry open any tabs securing the cover.
2. Unscrew and Remove the Outlet
Unscrew the top and bottom mounting screws that secure the receptacle to the electrical box. Carefully extract the outlet.
3. Disconnect Wires
You’ll see several wires attached to the outlet, including:
- Hot – Black (connected to brass screws)
- Neutral – White (connected to silver screws)
- Ground – Green or Bare (connected to green screw)
Carefully disconnect each wire one at a time using needle nose pliers. Make sure to grip the connectors, not the wires themselves, when disconnecting.
4. Remove Any Wire Nuts
There may be additional wires secured with wire nuts in the back of the box. Carefully disconnect these as well.
5. Remove Mounting Ears (if applicable)
Some outlets feature detachable ears or brackets for mounting. Remove these ears from the old outlet using pliers so the new outlet can be installed flush to the box.
The old outlet is now detached and ready for replacement!
Inspecting the Electrical Box
Before installing the new receptacle, examine the electrical box for any signs of damage:
- Cracks, corrosion, or deterioration
- Burn marks or melted plastic
- Loose, faulty, or broken clamps
- Holes that allow water intrusion
- Missing or cracked weatherproof cover
If the box is damaged, it must be replaced before installing the new outlet. A licensed electrician can assess if box replacement is necessary.
Is the Box Deep Enough?
Make sure the electrical box extends at least 1/2″ from the finished wall surface. This depth provides space for the new receptacle to be mounted flush. If the box is too shallow, it will need to be replaced with a deeper model.
Is the Box Grounded?
There must be a ground wire connected to the box itself. This is essential for safety. If the box is ungrounded, consult an electrician before proceeding.
Once you’ve verified the box is in good working order, you’re ready to move on to the new outlet installation.
Installing the New Outlet
Follow these steps to safely install your new outdoor receptacle:
1. Shut Off Power at the Breaker
Double check that the correct circuit is still switched OFF at the main electrical panel before wiring the new outlet.
2. Prepare the Electrical Box
Use a dry cloth to wipe out any dirt or debris inside the electrical box. Remove any detached screws or clamps.
3. Feed Wires into the Box
Bring the replacement outlet’s wires into the box through the designated opening or knockout hole. Make sure you have at least 6 to 8 inches of wire to work with.
4. Connect Hot and Neutral Wires
It’s easiest to connect the hot and neutral wires first:
- Hot – Connect the black “hot” wire from the new outlet to the grouped black supply wires in the box using a properly sized wire nut.
- Neutral – Connect the white “neutral” wire from the new outlet to the grouped white supply wires.
- Make sure connections are tight and secure.
5. Connect the Ground Wire
There are two places to connect the ground (green) wire from the new receptacle:
- To the ground wires in the box using a wire nut. AND
- To the grounding screw or wire on the outlet box itself.
This ensures full grounding protection.
6. Neatly Tuck Wires into the Box
Arrange all the connected wires neatly into the box, using electrical tape as needed to keep grouped. The wires should be flush with the back wall of the box.
7. Mount the New Outlet
Align the new receptacle ears or brackets with the screw holes on the box. Insert and tighten the top and bottom mounting screws.
8. Secure the Cover Plate
Put the weatherproof cover plate against the box surface and install the cover screw into the threaded hole. Make sure the cover sits flush and snug.
Testing and Restoring Power
You’re almost done! Follow these final steps:
1. Do a Final Safety Check
Inspect the new outlet and make sure:
- Mounting screws are tight
- Wires have no loose strands or exposed copper
- No wires are pinched behind the outlet
- Cover plate fits snug with no gaps or openings
- GFCI “Test” and “Reset” buttons function properly
2. Restore Power
Head back to the main panel and switch the correct circuit breaker back ON.
3. Test the New Outlet
Plug in a lamp or outlet tester. The outlet should now have power.
If the outlet doesn’t work, turn power back OFF and carefully check all connections. The outlet may also need to be replaced.
4. Weatherproof the Outlet
Caulk around the edges of the cover plate with waterproof silicone caulk. This prevents moisture intrusion into the electrical box.
That’s it! With your new, safely installed outdoor outlet, you can plug in patio lights, holiday decorations, power tools and more. Be sure to take all necessary precautions when using outdoor electricity. Never plug in more than the outlet’s rated capacity. Use GFCI protection and weatherproof covers to prevent shorts, shocks and electrocution hazards. Test GFCIs monthly to ensure proper functioning.
FAQs About Replacing an Outdoor Outlet
How do I know if my outdoor outlet is bad?
Signs of a faulty outdoor outlet include:
- Sparks or scorch marks around plugs
- Frequent circuit trips when using the outlet
- Corroded receptacle contacts
- No power flowing when plugged in
- Unstable power with flickering lights
- Buzzing, sizzling or crackling from the outlet
- Damage, cracks or melted plastic on the outlet
- Scorch marks or burn odor coming from the outlet
Any of these indicate it’s time to replace the worn out or damaged outlet.
Can I replace an outdoor outlet myself?
If you have basic electrical skills and knowledge of safety procedures, an outdoor outlet replacement is totally DIY-friendly. Make sure to turn off power at the main breaker panel before working. Review local codes for any regulations on outdoor electrical work. If you are uncomfortable dealing with electrical wiring, hire a professional electrician.
Does an outdoor outlet need to be GFCI protected?
Outdoor outlets should be protected by a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter). GFCIs provide protection from lethal shocks. This is especially crucial for outdoor outlets exposed to moisture. GFCI outlets have a test and reset button and will quickly cut power if there is a ground fault.
How do I make an outdoor outlet waterproof?
To waterproof an outdoor outlet:
- Install an outlet cover and box labeled for wet locations.
- Use outdoor-rated weatherproof receptacles.
- Caulk around the outlet with silicone to prevent water intrusion.
- Ensure the box is mounted above ground level to avoid puddle immersion.
- Use GFCI outlets for protection if the outlet could become submerged.
Can I change an indoor outlet to an outdoor outlet?
No, indoor outlets should never be used in outdoor locations. Indoor outlets lack waterproofing and are not designed to resist weather exposure. Always replace indoor outlets with devices rated for outdoor use when installing outside.
What is the difference between indoor and outdoor outlets?
Indoor and outdoor outlets have several differences:
- Outdoor outlets are weatherproof with seals/gaskets.
- Outdoor outlets must be rated for wet locations.
- Outdoor receptacles are UV-resistant and durable.
- GFCI protection is recommended for outdoor outlets.
- Outdoor boxes feature threaded openings for covers.
- Outdoor outlets may have in-use covers for plug protection.
Using the right outdoor outlet for the application prevents electrical hazards.
Conclusion
Replacing an aged or faulty outdoor electrical outlet is a doable DIY project with proper materials and safety steps. Make sure power is disconnected at the main breaker before wiring the new outlet. Only install outdoor-rated receptacles and weatherproof covers. Use GFCI outlets near water sources. Follow local codes and permit requirements. With the right precautions, you can safely upgrade your outdoor space with robust new outlets to handle your electrical needs.