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How to Install a GFCI Outlet

mediumHome Repair30-60 minutes10 steps

Safety Warnings

  • Disconnect all circuits by flipping the circuit breakers before beginning work.
  • Do not touch anything but the fuse rim/breaker switch.
  • Ensure power is off using a test lamp or voltage tester before touching wires.

Tools Needed

Circuit Breaker/Fuse Box — check locally
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Test Lamp or Voltage Tester — check locally
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Screwdriver — check locally
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Materials

GFCI Outlet — check locally(1)
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Steps

1
Disconnect the electrical circuit by flipping the circuit breaker or unscrewing the fuses.
Tip: Turn on as many lights as you can to help identify which circuit serves the outlet.
2
Verify the power is off using a test lamp at the outlet.
Tip: Ensure no electricity is flowing before proceeding with disassembly.
3
Remove the existing outlet from the wall box.
4
Identify the line (incoming power) and load (outgoing power) wires.
5
Connect the line wires to the GFCI outlet according to the manufacturer's instructions.
6
Connect the load wires to the 'load' terminals if protecting downstream outlets.
7
Secure the GFCI outlet into the electrical box.
8
Install the cover plate.
9
Restore power by flipping the circuit breaker back on.
10
Test the GFCI outlet using the 'test' and 'reset' buttons.

Pro Tips

  • Write descriptions of each circuit on a chart for future reference.

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Sources

Synthesized from 5 verified sources:

Gutenberg: Electricity for the 4-H ScientistView →
Gutenberg: Electrical GuideView →
Gutenberg: Economical Farmhouse PlansView →
USDA Farmers' Bulletin (Gutenberg)View →
Gutenberg: Dwelling ConstructionView →