How to Change Outlets to GFCI Outlets Part 1

One of the safety features that is found in a lot of kitchens, bathrooms, garages, or outdoor areas are GFCI outlets. A ground fault circuit interrupter, of GFCI outlet, has a built in circuit breaker that can save you from a very painful injury, or even death. These receptacles are also required in many newly constructed homes today as a safety feature. Many homeowners, when they remodel their kitchens, or other room, will install this type of outlet rather than their old ones. You may also find an outlet that is not GFCI in an older home when you purchase it. Changing a regular outlet to a GFCI outlet is not a difficult project and can be done with some very basic electrical knowledge and simple hand tools.

Step 1 - Safety First

Whenever you are working with any type of electrical component in your home you will need to take some important precautions. Make sure there are no water sources nearby. You will also want to let people know that you are now going to work on exposed wires. 

Step 2 - Turn off Circuit Breaker

To help ensure that there can be no accidents by touching the exposed wires you will need to turn the power off at the circuit breaker. Do not take it for granted that you turned off the correct breaker. Use a tester light to help make that determination. Insert the prong of the circuit tester into the outlet and see if the light comes on. If not, then you are good to continue working on your outlet replacement. If the light does come on, there is still power going to the outlet. Continue working with the circuit breaker to make sure you turn off the right one. Place some tape of the breaker with a sign that tells people you are working and not to turn it back on.

Step 3 - Remove Cover Plate

After you have made sure that the power is off at your outlet you can then remove the cover plate. This is held in place by a small screw in the center of the plate. Most generally it will require a flat head screwdriver to remove it. The screw is quite small to be ready to grab it when it comes out. Set it aside so that you do not lose it in the process. Lift out the cover plate and also set it aside. 

Step 4 - Remove Old Outlet

You will see that there are going to be 2 screws that hold the old outlet to the electrical box. They are located on the top and bottom. Again, these are generally flat head screws. However, there are some that require a Philips screwdriver. Remove these screws and set aside. The outlet will then be able to slide out of the electrical box. Use a Philips screwdriver to disconnect the wires that are attached to the outlet. Keep the wires separated and on each side of the box for help in determining how to install the new GFCI outlet. 

Step 5 - Vacuum Out Box

If this is an older home you will probably need to vacuum out the box of any dust, debris or insects.