In older buildings, electrical outlets often begin to go bad. They wear out, or the wiring can deteriorate. This is when you need to replace them. This is a task that is relatively easy for regular do-it-yourself folks. If you are not comfortable with working with electricity, you might want to consider contacting an electrician to handle the job.
With an outlet, if plugs are not fitting in snugly, it is time to replace it. If they are not working properly, replacement is necessary as they can be a fire hazard. You can find the replacement receptacle and any other electrical needs at Electrical Supply Manhattan. Once the right outlet is chosen, you can begin.
First, turn off the electricity to the outlet you will be working with. This can be done at your breaker or fuse box. You must then remove the face-plate from the outlet. Next, remove the two screws from the outlet. Pull the outlet out enough to give access to the terminal screws on the sides. Loosen the terminal screws just enough to remove the electrical wires from the outlet. Remove the outlet from the wall.
Next, you want to inspect the wires for any cracks or damage. If there is damage, you would want to cut the damaged area off. Then, using wire strippers, remove about a quarter of an inch of insulation from the end of the wires. Then, take a pair of needle nose pliers and form the exposed wire into a hook.
Take your new outlet that you purchased from the Electrical Supply Manhattan. Hook the white wires around the neck of the silver colored terminal screws. The black or red wires should then be attached to the brass colored screws. If there is a bare or green wire, this should be attached to the green screw on the outlet. Tighten down the screws so that the wires are snug. Then place the outlet in the junction box, carefully pushing the wires inside the opening. Finally, secure the outlet in the junction box with the remaining screws. Replace the face-plate and you are finished. You can now restore the power to the outlet.