Trystan Casey
Installing an electrical outlet outdoors is a convenient way to get power to where you need it. It can be a simple DIY project that you can do in an afternoon, but it's important to ensure that you comply with local electrical codes and take the necessary safety precautions. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of installing a new electric plug outside, covering everything from choosing the right location to connecting the wiring and testing your new outdoor outlet.
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What You'll Learn
Choose the right location for your exterior outlet
Choosing the right location for your exterior outlet is crucial for ensuring a safe and functional outdoor power source. Here are some important factors to consider when selecting the right spot:
Firstly, identify an exterior wall where you want the outlet to be located. It is important to choose a wall that provides easy access to an interior outlet or circuit that you can tap into. Look for an interior outlet on the same wall as your desired exterior outlet location. This will allow you to connect power between the two outlets by drilling through the wall. Ensure that the indoor outlet can support the additional load of the exterior outlet without overloading.
If you want to place the exterior outlet away from an existing interior outlet, you may need to tap into another electrical circuit. One option is to tap into a junction box in an unfinished basement and run the cable through the rim joist. Alternatively, you can run wires from an existing exterior outlet to the new location using metal conduit. If you don't have easy access to an existing outlet or circuit, consider hiring an electrician to run wires from your circuit box to the desired location.
When selecting the specific location for your exterior outlet, consider placing it at least 16 inches above the ground. This height provides protection from weather conditions and potential damage from lawn activities. Additionally, choose a spot that is easily accessible for your intended use. For example, if you plan to use the outlet for holiday lights or yard maintenance tools, ensure it is positioned near your porch, patio, or the area you intend to power.
Remember to always check local codes and regulations before starting any electrical work to ensure compliance with safety standards. With careful planning and consideration, you can choose the right location for your exterior outlet, providing convenience and functionality for your outdoor power needs.
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Ensure you have the right tools and materials
To ensure you have the right tools and materials to install a new outdoor electrical outlet, you will need to gather the following:
- A stud sensor or stud finder to determine the location of the stud and ensure your new outlet is in the same stud cavity as an existing indoor outlet.
- A drill with various drill bits, including a long 1/4-inch by 18-inch twist drill bit to drill through the wall and siding. If your exterior wall is made of stucco or brick, you will need a masonry drill bit with a hammer drill.
- A voltage tester to ensure the indoor outlet is running properly.
- Wire cutters to cut the cable and leave about a foot of wire dangling from the interior electrical box.
- Wire strippers to strip the insulation from individual wires.
- A screwdriver to knock out the knockout of your exterior electrical box and tighten screws.
- Safety goggles to protect your eyes during drilling.
- Exterior-grade electrical cable, long enough to reach from the interior to the exterior electrical box.
- A hole-cutting saw to enlarge the hole for the cable connector.
- A ground wire to connect to your interior outlet.
- Wire nuts to secure connections.
- A waterproof gasket to install onto the electrical box.
- An in-use cover to protect the receptacle from moisture.
- A GFCI outlet, which is required for outdoor use.
Before beginning any electrical work, always check local codes to ensure compliance and that you have the correct materials.
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Prepare the wiring
To prepare the wiring for your new outdoor electrical outlet, follow these steps:
Firstly, identify an existing indoor outlet that you can use to connect to your new outdoor outlet. Choose an outlet that is on the same exterior wall where you plan to install the new outlet. Ensure that the indoor outlet is not in the kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room, as building codes prohibit tapping into circuits in these areas. Also, make sure the indoor outlet can handle the additional load without overloading.
Next, turn off the power to the circuit you'll be working on at the circuit breaker box. Test the indoor outlet with a circuit tester to ensure the power is off. Remove the outlet cover and receptacle, and disconnect the wires from the terminal screws. Wear safety goggles and drill through the back of the electrical box with a long enough bit to reach through the exterior wall.
Now, go outside and use a hole-cutting saw to enlarge the hole so that the cable connector on the electrical box will fit inside. Thread a piece of exterior-grade electrical cable from the interior electrical box through the hole in the exterior wall. Ensure the cable is long enough to reach both boxes.
Back inside, trim the end of the cable until you have about 4 inches remaining outside of the electrical box. Strip the insulation from the black and white wires. Attach the ground wires together with a barrel crimp, and include a short ground wire to connect to the indoor outlet. Splice the white wires and black wires together, and also splice short black and white wires to power your indoor outlet. Secure the connections with wire nuts.
Finally, reattach the wires to the terminals on your outlet. Attach the white wire to the silver terminal and the black wire to the brass terminal. Now you are ready to install your new outdoor outlet box.
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Drill holes and run cables
To install an outdoor electrical outlet, you will need to drill holes and run cables through your interior and exterior walls. Before you begin, it is important to check local electrical codes to ensure your project is compliant.
First, you need to locate an interior outlet that is on the exterior wall where you want your outdoor outlet. The indoor outlet should be opposite where you want the outdoor outlet to be. Ensure the indoor outlet can handle the new exterior outlet without overloading. Use a voltage tester to check that the indoor outlet is running properly.
Next, you will need to drill a hole through your interior wall to the exterior where you want your outdoor outlet. Choose a drill bit that is suitable for the material of your wall. For example, if your exterior wall is made of stucco or brick, you will need a masonry drill bit with a hammer drill. Mark the spot where you want to drill and check for any studs. You don't want to drill into a stud as this will require drilling twice. Drill through the wall at a downward angle so that the new outlet will be below the indoor outlet. This ensures you have enough room for both electrical boxes in the wall cavity.
Once you have drilled the hole, you can run the cable through. Attach the cable to the drill bit and pull it back through the hole. If you are running cable from another power source, such as a basement junction box, you can drill down through the floor and pull the cable up or run it through the rim joist. When running cable along studs or joists, keep the cable centered with a minimum clearance of 1 1/4 inches on each side. Drill holes at the same height so that the cable is level with the floor.
Finally, trim the exterior end of the cable so that you have 4 inches sticking out of the electrical box. Remove the cable sheathing and use wire strippers to strip the insulation from each wire. Attach the wires to the corresponding screws on your new exterior outlet. Carefully push the wires and the outlet into the box and screw down the mounting tabs.
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Test the outlet
Testing your electrical outlet is a simple process that can be done at home, but it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Before you begin, turn off the circuit breaker supplying power to the outlet. This is a crucial step to prevent accidental shocks while testing. Make sure you know the location of the breaker box and which circuits control the outlets you'll be testing. It is recommended to always wear rubber-soled shoes to reduce the risk of electric shock and use insulated tools whenever possible. Keep your work area dry and clear of clutter to minimise hazards.
To test an electrical outlet, you can use a multimeter to check for continuity and ensure that the outlet is functioning properly. A multimeter is a device that measures voltage and current and can be used to test both AC and DC circuits. It is also important to inspect the wiring for any signs of damage or fraying, which can pose serious fire and electrical shock hazards.
When testing with a multimeter, hold both metal tips in one hand to prevent electricity from passing through your body in the event of a shock. Insert the metal rods into the neutral slot before the live one, as there is a greater risk of shock if the current passes through your body. Never allow the metal tips to touch. If you notice any sparking, consider contacting an electrician.
To test for electrical shorts, first identify which outlet may be causing issues and ensure that it is completely powered down. Locate your circuit breaker panel and turn off the breaker corresponding to the outlet. Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm that there is no power at the outlet. Look for a reading of zero volts. Once you've confirmed that the outlet is power-free, you can proceed with testing using the multimeter.
If you are unsure about any of these steps or encounter complexities, it is important to consult a professional electrician for assistance.
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Frequently asked questions
First, you need to find an interior outlet that is on the exterior wall where you want to install the new outlet. Make sure the indoor outlet can handle the new exterior outlet without overloading. Next, turn off the power to the circuit and disconnect the wires from the terminal screws. Drill a hole through the exterior wall and siding. Thread a piece of exterior-grade electrical cable from the interior electrical box through the hole. Attach the ground wires together with a barrel crimp and strip the insulation from the black and white wires. Splice white to white and black to black. Secure the connections with wire nuts and reattach the wires to the terminals. Attach the white wire to the silver terminal and the black wire to the brass terminal. Screw down the mounting tabs on the outlet and screw on the cover gasket. Turn the power back on and test the outlet.
If you can't find a suitable indoor outlet, you may have to hire an electrician to run wires from your circuit box to the spot.
If the box is metal, it will most likely be too small to hold additional wires and should be replaced. If the box is plastic, look inside for a volume listing to check if it is large enough.
You can skip this step and later mount an outdoor electrical box instead.
