Adding an outdoor outlet to your home can be a useful upgrade, allowing you to conveniently plug in outdoor lights, appliances, tools and more. With some basic electrical skills and safety precautions, it’s possible to tap into your existing breaker box to install a new outdoor outlet. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to safely add an outdoor outlet from your breaker box.
Selecting the Location
The first step is deciding where you want to locate the outdoor outlet. Some key factors to consider:
- Convenience – Pick a spot where the outlet will be useful, like by an outdoor seating area or garden. Avoid locations that are too far from the breaker box or difficult to run wiring to.
- Protection from Weather – Choose a spot under an eve or overhang to prevent rain from getting into the outlet. The outlet box itself should be weatherproof.
- Grounding – You can install the outlet into the side of the house, on a post or fence for stability. The outlet box should be firmly secured.
- GFCI Protection – Outdoor outlets require GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets for safety. Choose a location where you can meet this requirement.
- Distance from Breaker Box – Standard 12 gauge wiring used for outlets can safely run up to 100 feet from the breaker box. Keep this distance limit in mind.
Once you decide on the ideal spot based on these factors, you can mark the exact location for installation.
Turn Off Power
Before working on any electrical project, safety should always be the top priority. Always turn off power to the breaker box before installing a new outlet by:
- Locating the main breaker switch in the breaker box and flipping it to the “Off” position.
- Unplugging any appliances or lights connected to the breaker box circuits.
- Using a non-contact voltage tester to double check that all power is off.
Turning off main power prevents risk of electrocution or injury. Verify there is no power present before proceeding.
Installing the New Breaker
With the power off, you can now install a new breaker in the breaker box that will supply power to the new outlet:
- Choose a 15 or 20 amp single pole breaker and make sure it matches the size of the breaker box.
- Find an open slot in the breaker box to insert the new breaker.
- Securely fasten the breaker into the slot, tightening the screw firmly.
The outlet circuit you are installing will be powered via this new dedicated breaker.
Running the Cable to the New Outlet
Next, you can run the new wiring from the breaker to the outlet location:
- Use 12-3 Romex electrical cable to safely carry 120-volt current for outlets.
- Cut the cable to the required length using wire strippers. Leave at least 6 extra inches on each end.
- Secure one end of the cable to the new breaker using a breaker terminal screw.
- Route the cable through drilled holes or conduits from the breaker box to the outlet.
- Avoid running wires through walls or ceilings without proper boxes or conduit.
Take care not to staple or damage the new wire while routing between the breaker and outlet.
Installing and Connecting the Outlet
At the outlet location, you can now install and connect the outlet itself:
- Choose an outdoor-rated GFCI outlet and matching weatherproof box.
- Mount the outlet box securely into the wall or surface per included instructions.
- Feed the new wiring into the outlet box, leaving 6″ of wire to work with.
- Secure the black (hot) wire to the brass screw, white (neutral) to silver screw.
- Connect the ground wire to the green screw or wire on the outlet.
- Attach the outlet’s faceplate cover securely to the box.
Make sure all connections are tight and that no exposed wire is present for safety.
Testing and Turning Power Back On
You’re nearly done! Follow these final steps to safely finish the new outlet installation:
- With the breaker still off, use a voltage tester to verify power is not active at the outlet yet.
- Carefully turn the main breaker back on to restore power to the breaker box.
- At the outlet, plug in a lamp or tester appliance to confirm the outlet is wired correctly and functioning.
- Use the outlet’s “Test” and “Reset” buttons to confirm proper GFCI protection.
If the outlet doesn’t function, double check the wiring connections. Turn power back off before adjusting any wires.
- Apply an outdoor-safe silicone sealant around the outlet edges to protect from moisture.
Once fully tested and sealed, you can now safely use your new outdoor outlet! Be sure to practice electrical safety and GFCI testing regularly. Your outlet addition can now power yard tools, lights and any outdoor appliances protected from the elements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to add an outdoor outlet from a breaker box?
The costs for parts to add an outdoor outlet from a breaker box typically range from $100 to $200 depending on the specific materials needed. Hiring an electrician usually adds $200 to $400 in labor costs for a simple outlet installation.
Can I tap into an existing circuit for an outdoor outlet?
It’s recommended to install outdoor outlets on their own dedicated circuit with a GFCI breaker. Tapping into an existing indoor circuit risks overloading and exceeds code for outdoor outlets.
What gauge wire should be used for an outdoor outlet?
12-gauge Romex wire is normally required to safely supply a 15 or 20 amp outdoor electrical outlet per NEC code requirements. This ensures the outlet circuit has enough current carrying capacity.
Should outdoor outlets be GFCI protected?
Yes, the NEC requires that all outdoor outlets be connected to a GFCI breaker or outlet for protection from electrical shocks or electrocution from water exposure.
Can I install an outdoor outlet myself?
If you have basic electrical knowledge for safely shutting off power and working within a breaker box, installing an outdoor outlet is a DIY project that most homeowners can complete. Always follow proper safety procedures.
Conclusion
Adding an outdoor outlet from your main electrical panel or breaker box allows you to bring power wherever it’s needed outside your home. By methodically shutting off power, installing a new breaker, running wiring to the new outlet location, and properly connecting the outdoor-rated receptacle, you can pass inspection and safely DIY your own outdoor outlet installation. Just be sure to take all necessary precautions when working with electrical systems. With the right materials and safety steps, you can enjoy the convenience of powering patio lights, tools and outdoor living spaces.