How to Connect The Wires to an Outlet
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I bought a new outlet with 5 screws in it. But when I removed the old outlet, I see only 3 wires coming out…
© By: Dave Rongey
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Electrical Question from Tony about Outlet Wiring Directions
Background: Tony, a Homeowner from Newport News, VA
[ad#block]Question: I bought a new outlet with 5 screws in it. But when I removed the old outlet, I see only 3 wires coming out. A ground wire, a white wire, and a black wire. Which is the right way to connect those 3 wires to the 5 screws?
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Tony.
There are two pairs of screw terminals, one pair for each wire. However these two pairs of screws have two different colors, silver and brass (or copper depending on the brand). Either of the Silver screws can be used for the connection of the White Neutral Wire. The Black wire is connected to either of the two Brass or Copper Screws. This leaves us with the green screw down by itself which is for the ground wire connection.
The Following links will assist you with your electrical question:
This link is helpful as a Homeowner
Do-It-Yourself Electrical
Make sure not to miss these Resources for: Electrical Safety
Home Electrical Safety
Be Careful and Be Safe – Never Work on Energized Circuits!
For Best Results Consult a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
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The following may also be helpful for you:
A Complete Guide to Home Electrical Wiring
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Perfect for Homeowners, Students and Electricians
Includes:
Home Electrical Wiring - Room by Room
120 Volt Circuits
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Electrical Codes for Home Electrical Wiring
....and much more.
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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
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The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wires!
The Non-Contact Electrical Tester
This is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.
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Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency
Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included
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UL Listed
Light indicates if wiring is incorrect
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My absolute favorite wire stripping tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and this is the tool I use to safely strip electrical wires.
This handy tool has multiple uses:
The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation.
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Outlets Parts and Accessories
120volt Wall Outlet
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