Ways to Replace an Electrical Outlet Box

Electrical boxes come in many different sizes, shapes and types. Using the correct type for the job can make installation easier as well as eliminate or reduce return maintenance trips. Most electrical boxes used inside a building are designed for dry environments. Outside boxes must be weatherproof because outside of a building is considered to be a wet environment. To replace an outlet box, the following questions must be answered to make sure the correct outlet box is chosen: What size is the existing box? Will the new box be exposed to excessive moisture or water?

Shut off the power to the circuit with the box that will be replaced. Use the voltage tester to verify that the power is off at that receptacle. Use a screwdriver to remove the receptacle cover. Remove the screws holding the receptacle in the box. And pull out the receptacle to access the wiring. Unscrew the terminal screws holding the wires in place and remove the receptacle.

Locate the nails holding the box in place and, using a hacksaw or reciprocating saw, cut alongside the box to cut through the nails and remove the box. The new box should be designed for an existing wall. These types of boxes clamp to the drywall when the screws on the box are tightened. Knock out one of the knockouts on the new box and insert all of the wires through the knockouts. It may be necessary to use two of the knockouts depending on the number of wires.

Push the box into the existing hole in the wall and tighten the box screws until the box will not move. Using the old receptacle or a new one, connect the black wire to the brass terminal of the receptacle and connect the white wire to the silver terminal. Tighten those screws and push the wires and the receptacle back into the box. Reinstall the receptacle screws and tighten them. Replace the receptacle cover plate and tighten it. Turn the power back on and test the voltage at that receptacle.