08 Sep Upgrade an Electrical Outlet: USB Ports
While many of our devices do attach to traditional electrical outlets via a pronged adapter attached to a USB, the number of devices in use in a typical home takes up a lot of electrical outlet space. Yes, you can easily share time in an outlet, however all that plugging and unplugging creates unnecessary wear and tear on the outlet. Thankfully, however, you have other options: there are replacement electrical outlets that include both traditional pronged heads and USB. And any one of your outlets—except for those that have GFCI capabilities (Unless you find a USB outlet that includes these amenities and GFCI reset capabilities)—could be quickly and easily swapped out.
How to Replace an Outlet
Turn off the power to the outlet at the breaker. Hopefully the breaker is labeled appropriately, but if it’s not then you’ll have to experiment until you find the right one. To check that the power is off use an electrical circuit tester at the outlet. Remove the cover from the outlet, and then unscrew the two screws holding the outlet in place. Check for electricity at the back of the outlet, and if you determine that there is no current, begin to remove the wires from the outlet (One tip to dismantling an outlet, especially if you have never had the experience, snap a picture with your cell phone of the arrangement of wires). Attach the wires to your new outlet—some outlets have a different wiring method—then situate the outlet into the wall, again screw the outlet into place, and then turn on the power at the breaker. Check the electrical current at the new outlet using your testing device, and, if you determine that everything’s in top working order, then replace the outlet cover.
Always remember how dangerous electricity is to work with, and when you do have to work with it, perform all the necessary steps, in order, so that you stay safe. And if you have any questions about electrical outlets or electrical voltage testers, come in and speak with the experts at your local Height’s Ace Hardware.
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