Should I Change Electrical Outlets & Switches on My Own?

With some basic electrical know-how, changing electrical outlets or switches yourself can be a rewarding experience and teach you a valuable and straightforward skill. Learn when and how to replace an electrical switch yourself and when to call in the pros with this guide.

When Is It Okay to DIY Electrical Outlet or Switch Replacement?

Most parts of your electrical system are complex and potentially hazardous, often requiring a licensed electrician to perform the work. However, electrical outlets and switches don’t involve overly-complicated wiring. As such, you can DIY electrical switch or outlet replacement on your own as long as the problem is limited to the outlet or receptacle and not stemming from greater issues with your circuits or overall electrical system.

These circumstances may require a switch or electrical outlet replacement:

• Age
• Overheating
• Damage
• Loose connections
• Safety compliance

DIY Outlet or Switch Replacement Guide and Tips
You can easily and safely replace an electrical switch or outlet with some electrical knowledge and these tips.

Troubleshoot the outlet or switch

Several issues can cause an outlet or switch to fail. If the connected devices, such as light switches or televisions, don’t have power, try connecting them to other outlets. If they have power from other outlets, you’ll know the problem is limited to the original receptacle.

If the devices still don’t work, use a voltage meter to test the outlets and switches — no power can suggest an overloaded circuit and tripped breaker, loose or incorrect wiring connections, and other problems. Check your electrical panel for a tripped breaker, and reset it if safe to do so.

If the outlet or switch has charring, burning smells, smoking, sparking, or is warm to the touch, there’s likely a bigger issue with the circuit that requires professional attention before changing the outlet.

Gather materials and tools

Verify the type of switch or outlet you’re replacing. There are two-, three-, and four-way switches, single-pole double-throw switches, and double-pole double-throw switches as well as GFCI and other specialized outlets. Some may have more complex configurations that require professional installation.

Then, collect the following materials and electrical tools for a DIY replacement:

• Replacement outlet kit (15 amp, 20 amp, or GFCI); or
• Replacement switch kit
• Flat-head screwdrivers
• Phillips head screwdrivers
• Voltage meter
• Wire cutters
• Wire strippers
• Pliers

Disconnect power

Before working on any electrical device or unit in your home, disconnect the power from its source at the breaker panel. Turn the appropriate circuit breaker off — you can also tape it down in the off position in case another person in your household mistakenly tries to turn it back on. Use a voltage meter to verify that the outlet or switch no longer has power before you start working. 

Remove faceplate and unit

Remove the faceplate on the switch or outlet by loosening the mounting screws with a screwdriver. Unless you’re also replacing the faceplate with a new one, set it and the screws aside until you’re ready to reinstall it.

Outlets and switches typically have mounting screws that fasten to the wall with a metal strap fixture. Unscrew these, then pull the unit away from the wall, being careful not to tug on and potentially damage the attached wires.

Rewire and install new unit

As you pull the outlet or switch from the wall, you’ll see several wires. Although configurations may vary, the most common wire configuration is:

• Black: Connects to the brass screw terminals and is typically the hot wire that conducts live voltage.
• White: Neutral wires that connect to the silver screw terminals.
• Copper or green-coated: Ground wires that connect to the green screws on the outlet or switch.  

You’ll likely be connecting the new outlet with the same wire configuration, so it can be helpful to take a photo of the existing setup before removing it. Then, disconnect the circuit wires from the old outlet or switch. If the wires appear damaged, strip off the damaged portion with a stripping tool and snip the end of the wire.

Wire your new outlet or switch with the same wire configuration as before. Gently tuck the wires into the wall receptacle, and replace the screws in the strap fasteners. If you’re replacing a switch, make sure to position its on and off markings correctly.

Replace faceplate and test

Screw the faceplate on to finish the installation. Turn the circuit breaker back to the on position, and use a voltage meter to verify the connection. Test by plugging a device into the outlet or flipping the switch to turn on the lights or other unit it connects to. If you install a smart switch, you may need to also download an app and sync your devices over wi-fi.

When Should I Call an Electrician? 

If you’re not confident in your electrical knowledge or skills, you can rely on our licensed electricians in Santa Ana to safely replace electrical outlets. Always call an electrician if you notice potentially hazardous issues, such as:

• Buzzing
• Burning
• Smoking
• Charring

If your outlet or switch requires more complex installation, such as a GFCI outlet installation or a circuit reconfiguration or upgrade, call a skilled electrician for help. Some municipalities may also require an electrician to perform the service to comply with safety codes.

Calling an electrician for outlet repair or electrical switch replacement can prevent frustration and inconvenience as well as avoid further damage to your system and home and therefore high repair costs. Most importantly, an electrician can safely repair or replace equipment to prevent shocks, burns, electrical fires, and other hazards.

Get Expert Support with Express Electrical’s Team in Santa Ana

Don’t hesitate to rely on Express Electrical if you prefer to not DIY your electrical needs. Our 24-hour emergency electricians can arrive at your home within 60 to 90 minutes of your call. We service all of Los Angeles and the rest of Southern California. Contact us today or book online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change multiple outlets or switches at once, or should I do them one at a time?

It’s best to focus on one switch or outlet at a time to avoid mixing up configurations and making troubleshooting easier should any issues occur.

Should I upgrade electrical switches and outlets while I’m replacing them?

If you have an older electrical system and some of its configurations don’t meet current safety code standards, upgrading electrical outlets and switches can increase safety and convenience.