How to Install an Electrical Outlet Cover

An electric outlet cover is designed to make electrical outlets safe for other people. An electric outlet can be quite hazardous, especially for curious babies and children who are drawn to materials they see around them. To protect children from electrocution, it is best to install electrical outlets at a safe distance from the floor. Another way to make the outlet safe for children, especially if there is an outlet already installed, is to install an electrical outlet cover. Installation does not require a professional electrician to do the job because the task is quite simple. Follow the simple instructions below.

Step 1 – Choosing an Electrical Outlet Cover

There is a variety of covers available in supply stores anywhere. Some covers have a hole in the middle for plugs that require them. While most types are secured using screws, there are also other varieties that do not require any type of screw. To gain the best protection from accidental electrocution, choose covers that have a safety slide. The slide covers the holes when the outlet is not in use.

Step 2 – Preparation

Determine which outlets need to be fitted with covers and purchase the covers at a nearby store. Before installation, make sure that the power is turned off to avoid accidental electric shocks. Make use of a voltmeter to check if power is turned off completely. A voltmeter is a necessary tool when working on electrical project so better have one handy.

Step 3 – Installing the Sub Plates

The electrical outlet cover will require the installation of a sub plate. This sub plate needs to be installed under the receptacle’s mounting strap. To install the sub plate, remove the existing cover plate of the outlet. Loosen the screws of the receptacle and lift it a bit to allow the two halves of the plate to be inserted into the outlet box. Push the sub plate halves inside to fit the box. The plates will snap securely in place. Tighten the screws of the receptacle once more before you proceed.

Step 4 – Securing the Electric Outlet Cover in Place

The outlet cover has to be secured in place against the sub plate in different ways depending on the type of cover purchased. Most covers can be secured against the sub plate by inserting and tightening the screws provided for installation. If the product does not need screws for installation, simply push it against the sub plate and it will automatically snap into place.

Potential Problems

Sometimes, the sub plate may not easily fit inside the outlet box due to reasons such as bulges in the wall. To fix the problem, simply think of a way to flatten out that bulge in order to allot the installation of the sub plate.

After installing the electric cover, plugs may not fit the holes on the slides. If the problem can not be easily fixed, simply have the manufacturer or seller replace it with a new one.