How to Replace an Electrical Floor Outlet

Replacing an electrical floor outlet is not as hard as it may seem. Always follow local and national electrical codes while you work. Also be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Tools and Materials

• Electric drill with hole saw if necessary
• Screwdriver
• Caulk

Step 1: Locate the Electrical Panel and Turn Power Off

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, turn off the power that supplies that outlet. Often 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.

Step 2: Remove the Outlet Box

You can remove the outlet box in the same way that it was installed. Remove any screws holding the plate cover onto the box and pull the unit out. If there was a bead of caulk placed between the outlet box and the subfloor, you may need to release this. You can use a flat screwdriver or a chisel and gently slide it under the lip and slowly pry it out. Do this gently so as not to damage your floor. Once the caulk is released, you can easily remove the outlet box.

Cut the wires and use wire nuts on the ends to cap them.

Step 4: Check Hole

If you have purchased the same unit as you are replacing, you will not need to adjust the floor hole size. If it is a different unit, be sure to check with the manufacturer’s instructions to be certain you have the correct hole size as well as the correct depth allowance.

Step 5: Connect the New Wires

If you have purchased the same unit as before, simply connect the wires in the same way you removed them. If you have purchased a different unit the color coding will remain the same: green to green, black to black, white to white.

Step 6: Install the Outlet

Push all the excess wires in the hole but clamp the romex, bent over, to the bottom of the box floor. Reinstall the bottom plate and clamp. The romex will exit into the bottom of the cover plate and is held by screws.

Place a bead of caulk on the floor around the outlet hole and place the assembled floor box into the hole, being sure it is well seated. Place the cover plate over the top and screw into the subfloor.

Step 7: Test the New Outlet

The final step is to test it to be sure it is operating properly.