Otis Singleton
Moving an electrical wall socket is a straightforward task that can be done without the need for extensive building work. The first step is to decide on the new location of the socket and mark the site on the wall. It is important to be cautious and use a metal detector to check for wires, pipes, or metal inside the wall before drilling. Once the new location is confirmed, the socket base can be fixed to the wall, and the wire from the old socket can be connected to the new one. It is recommended to use insulating gloves and mitts when performing any electrical work, especially in areas with higher humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| First Step | Decide on the new socket's placement and mark the site with a pencil |
| Safety Precaution | Check for wires, pipes, or metal inside the wall with a metal detector |
| Next Steps | Place the socket base with nylon plugs and a hammer, then fix the base with a drill |
| Connecting the Wires | Strip the wire tips with electrician's scissors so they fit the socket's internal mechanism, taking polarity into account |
| Removing Old Socket | Take out the screw from the plate cover, then remove the socket from the wall by unscrewing the mounting screw |
| Final Steps | Connect the wire from the old socket to the new one, reconnect the power, and test |
| Alternative Method | Chase a channel in the wall and run the cable, then plaster over it |
| Alternative Method 2 | Surface mount the cable in a suitable conduit or use an extension lead |
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What You'll Learn
Planning the new socket location
First, decide on the desired location for your new socket. Consider the placement of your furniture and appliances, and choose a spot that is easily accessible and makes practical sense. Mark the new location on the wall with a pencil, using the new socket as a stencil to outline the position accurately.
Before drilling, it is essential to check for any wires, pipes, or metal inside the wall to avoid accidental damage. You can use a metal detector for this purpose, ensuring that your chosen location is safe for drilling.
If possible, try to position the new socket close to an existing electrical box or stud. The electrical box, which holds the outlet, is typically attached to the stud. Locating the studs and positioning the new socket nearby can make the installation process more straightforward.
If you are moving the socket up a wall, consider the wiring length. You may need to add old work boxes and drop matching gauge wire down to the existing box. Alternatively, you can surface-mount the cable in a suitable conduit, although this may be less aesthetically pleasing.
Once you have determined the new location and considered the wiring requirements, you can proceed with the next steps of removing the old socket and installing the new one. Remember to take the necessary safety precautions, such as using insulating gloves and clamping wires with a wire stripper, as you work with electrical components.
By carefully planning the new socket location, you can ensure a smooth and efficient process when moving an electrical wall socket.
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Using a metal detector to check for wires
Moving an electrical wall socket is a potentially hazardous task and it is always best to consult a professional electrician if you are unsure. Before attempting to move an electrical wall socket, it is important to check for wires behind the wall. One way to do this is by using a metal detector.
A metal detector can be an efficient method to check for wires, especially if there are very few wires present and not many other metal objects, like nails, in the walls. However, it's important to note that metal detectors can be sensitive to metalwork on the other side of the plasterboard or drywall, so adjustments may be needed to avoid false positives.
To use a metal detector to check for wires, start by adjusting the sensitivity. Turn on the device and adjust the sensitivity in the air until it emits a tone. Then turn it back down until the tone turns off. This will help ensure that you get a localized reading.
Once the metal detector is calibrated, slowly move it along the wall, listening for any changes in the tone or signal. If there are wires behind the wall, the metal detector will detect them and the tone or signal will change. You can also try using a non-contact voltage detector to check for live wires. These tools can detect the presence of electrical current without needing to make physical contact.
It's important to note that even with a metal detector, you may not get an exact idea of how many wires are in a particular spot. Additionally, if there is a lot of metalwork or other metal objects in the wall, it can be difficult to get an accurate reading. In such cases, it may be helpful to use a combination of methods, such as a visual inspection or consulting a professional electrician.
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Removing the old socket
When removing the old socket, safety should be your top priority. Before you begin, ensure that you have insulating gloves and mitts, and that you have cut off the power supply to the circuit.
To remove the old socket from the wall, take out the screw from the plate cover of the outlet and carefully lift it off the wall. You should then unscrew the mounting screw that holds the socket to the wall. Once you have done this, pull the socket off the wall. Next, loosen the terminal screws on the sides of the outlet with wires attached, and separate the socket from the wires.
After successfully removing the old socket, you can cut a hole in the wall for the new socket. If you are patching over the old socket, you can simply remove the initial electrical box and patch the hole.
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Connecting the wires to the new socket
First, ensure that you have killed the power to the circuit and verified at the outlets. This is an essential safety precaution before working with any electrical wiring. Gauge the existing wire on the outlets to determine the gauge, which is likely to be 12 or 14. This information will be important for the next steps.
Now, you can begin working with the wires. Start by stripping the tips of the wires with electrician's scissors. This step will allow the wires to fit into the internal mechanism of the new socket, taking into account its polarity. It is crucial to match the wires to the correct terminals, ensuring that you do not confuse the brass and silver terminals.
Next, you will need a pair of pliers. Use the pliers to bend the ends of the wires into hooks. This technique will help you securely attach the wires to the terminals. Take the end of the black wire and hook it onto the brass-coloured terminal on the new socket. Then, take the white wire and hook it onto the silver-coloured terminal.
Finally, you will need to connect the bare copper wire. Locate the green screw at the bottom of the outlet and hook the bare copper wire onto it. Ensure that all the screws are tightened securely during each step. Once you have completed these connections, slide the outlet and wiring into the electrical box and mount it with screws.
After you have mounted the new socket, you can reconnect the power and check that everything functions correctly. Always exercise caution when working with electricity, and if you are unsure about any steps, consult a certified electrician.
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Testing the new socket
Once you have installed the new socket, you will need to reconnect the power and test it to ensure it is working.
First, kill the power to the circuit and verify at the outlets. Next, gauge the existing wire on the outlets to determine if they are using 12 or 14 gauge. You can then add old work boxes and drop matching gauge wire down to the existing box.
After reconnecting the power, you should test the new socket with an electrical device to ensure it is working. You should also check that the wiring is connected properly and that there is no damage to the wall surrounding the new socket.
It is important to be cautious when working with electricity, and if you are unsure about any part of the process, it is best to consult a qualified electrician.
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Frequently asked questions
First, decide where you want the new socket to be placed. Mark the site on the wall with a pencil, using the socket as a stencil.
You will need a metal detector, a drill, a hammer, a screwdriver, a wire stripper, electrician's scissors, a new socket, and nylon plugs.
Use a metal detector to check for any hidden objects in the wall.
Place the nylon plugs in the wall with a hammer and fix the base with a drill.
Strip the wire tips with electrician's scissors so they fit into the internal mechanism of the socket, taking into account its polarity. Then, reconnect the power and test if the new socket works.
