6 Safety Tips for Installing a Floor Outlet

Be mindful of these 6 safety tips for installing an electrical floor outlet. Be sure you always follow local and national electrical codes while you work.  Also be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Installing a floor outlet is similar to installing a wall outlet. Many of the same principals apply

Tip #1 – Locate the Electric Panel

The first thing you must do when working with anything electrical is to be sure the power is turned off. If you are replacing an existing outlet, you should turn off the power to it. Often times the breakers are marked by the builder but sometimes they are incorrect. You may have to turn the breakers on and off, one by one, until you locate the correct one for your wire source. Always be sure to test with a circuit tester before beginning work. Never work if you are unsure whether the power is shut off  or not.

Tip #2 – Be Consistent with Wiring Sizes

Common wiring you will see in the home is in 12 gauge and 14 gauge sizes. You will find the gauge of the wire printed on the outside sheath of the wire. It will be printed over and over again on the same wire so that even on a cut length, you will be able to determine the gauge. The gauge is simply a way of determining the wire size. If you are unsure of the gauge of the wire you are working with, there are wire gauge measuring devices on the market which will instantly tell you the gauge of the wire. Never mix two different gauges in an installation.

Tip #3 – Be Consistent with Voltage

Common everyday household voltage is 120v. Large appliances will likely use 240v. Always be sure that when you are working with running wires and installing outlets that you never mix 120v with 240v.

Tip #4 – Snug Contacts

When wiring your outlet be sure that all connection are snug. Poor contacts or loose wires may become overheated. This could cause sparks, even if the outlet has nothing plugged into it, when it is part of a series run.

Tip #5 – Test the Connection

Always use a circuit tester after you have completed your installation. This will tell you if it is wired correctly and the proper voltage is flowing through the system. Circuit testers can be purchased at any home improvement store.

Tip #6 – Cover Outlet When Not in Use

Being that your outlet is situated on the floor where things can fall, if you are not using it, that is, nothing is plugged into it, it should be covered for safety. Floor outlets will come with snap on covers when they are purchased. Replace this cover or buy a cover and use it. Small objects can fall into it and cause shorts. Children can poke things into it and cause injury. It is a simple task to replace the cover.