How To Wire An Electrical Outlet - EASY Receptacle Wiring STEP BY STEP

In this video I will show you how to wire an electrical outlet. In this receptacle wiring tutorial I go step by step in an easy to understand method. I show how to strip wires to installing the receptacle cover. Electrical outlets can be a DIY project with the right instruction.
When wiring an outlet it is very important to consider safety first. Electricity can be very dangerous. This video is for entertainment purposes ONLY!
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Intro 00:00
Safety First 00:38
Receptacle details 00:55
How to remove the jacket/casing from wire 02:25
How to strip wires 03:11
How to make a wire hook using needle nose pliers 03:50
How to secure wires to a receptacle 04:58
How to secure a receptacle to an outlet box 06:43
How to install a receptacle cover 07:41
Outlets box with two wires 8:36
Outlet box with three wires 09:20
GFCI Receptacle wiring explained 10:16
Disclaimer: This video is all based on my personal opinion and is for entertainment purposes ONLY. I am not a financial advisor, CPA, attorney, tax advisor, electrician, plumber, housing contractor, designer, or any type of profession to give advice. I am just a consumer sharing my experiences and research. If you do need knowledge for those types of things, I will advise you to seek help for those professionals.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Do you call them outlets or receptacles? I placed timestamps below 👇 to help you navigate this video. Safety First 00:38 Receptacle details 00:55 How to remove the jacket/casing from wire 02:25 How to strip wires 03:11 How to make a wire hook using needle nose pliers 03:50 How to secure wires to a receptacle 04:58 How to secure a receptacle to an outlet box 06:43 How to install a receptacle cover 07:41 Outlets box with two wires 8:36 Outlet box with three wires 09:20 GFCI Receptacle wiring explained 10:16

[@SouthTexasRocker1]

Eo

[@jamieward2880]

Thanks for the refresher

[@danmumbere-lm8wf]

sap

[@PP-nh1lv]

The fact that you did this whole procedure whilst wearing those rubber gloves in itself is an accomplishment!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

This comment made me laugh. Thanks!

[@LG-ve9us]

yeah especially while installing that small receptacle cover screw... well done!

[@coldsteel50ae82]

Yeah cause those gloves are terrible. They stick to everything 🤣

[@teamdada2194]

6” not 10”.

[@BLD-sl4cm]

For real I want it to be extra safe so I grabbed rubberized garden gloves to do it and I pretty much immediately gave up on that cuz I was like I tested it with a multimeter it's not on

[@stevemcarthur7721]

To ensure breakers have not been mislabeled, check for power on the outlet to be worked on, then throw the breaker and check that the outlet now has no power.

[@DanielMartinez-rn2yf]

You are a great teacher I'm Hispanic and I still learning inglish,whit you I understand everything thanks Sir so much keep up the great work

[@icantthinkofaname6799]

I'm a 1st gen citizen in the U.S and Hispanic, I understand the struggle, you can do it👍🏾

[@Ambientes]

Órale

[@carolmason9386]

Excellent video. To the point, I also love how you repeated black to the gold and white to the silver. You saved me going back to double check myself.

[@DavidGibson-et3dp]

Just wanted to thank you for all your post. You're a great teacher and helped me wire my finished basement.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

You’re welcome, David! I’m glad you are finding my channel helpful. Stay tuned for more!

[@SimplySwankEducation]

I am using your videos for my homeschool, thanks a lot for having clear and kid-friendly content.

[@hulksmash9748]

It’s just refreshing watching videos like this

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I’m glad I could help!

[@CivilianDan]

Thank you again. I finally learned what those metal breakaway tabs are in between the top and bottom of the outlet. Makes sense now. Thank you for showing the multiple wiring varieties in separate boxes. Very appreciative of your lessons.

[@SticksAandstonesBozo]

Fantastic video. Literally covered the three main types of outlet situations.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I try to keep the video says thorough as possible. Thanks for watching!

[@victoriaorozco3263]

Your way of explaining and going in to detail on your videos is great I'm remodeling a 5th wheel slowly but surely good job.

[@taylorlewis7972]

We’ll done. One thing I would add would be to screw the empty terminal in all the way so it’s not sticking out. That’s the way I was taught. I doesn’t seem like a big deal but every small safety precaution adds up and one day it could be the difference.

[@davidbierley7444]

Awesome. Straight and to the point.

[@dianeruiz0721]

Excellent job my friend! My son-in-law and nephews are all electricians and licensed. This is exactly how he showed me to do this procedure and you demonstrated it beautifully! You have a new subscriber!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thanks for subscribing and watching. I’m glad you enjoyed the video Diane. Take care!

[@samgonzalez1447]

Great video thanks!🙏

[@floridagirl386]

No offense but if you have sons & nephews they can lend a hand to dear old auntie! Instead of show you how to do it.

[@Johnthedagger]

Am getting ready to wire our new outbuilding (24x36) and between mini splits, propane heaters, switches, lighting, outlets, and cameras, it gets confusing. Have been through many of the "experts" on KZbin but your channel is easily the best on electrical work and greatly appreciate the well filmed, easy to understand, and comprehensive looks at the various projects DIYers might encounter. Keep it up👍

[@justinryanmusic7204]

Great videos! Quick to the point but great explanations. Thanks so much! I’m the GC on my family’s house build right now and I really think I could at least help my electrician out a lot after watching your videos. It’ll speed things up and maybe save me some money.

[@teammetrofishing1406]

Thank you for the great info. I have enough electrical experience to be confident in doing the job but its always nice to be re assured. I also learned about the wire length slot and the tabs. All i have done is replace existing outlet plugs and dimmer switches so that was all taken care of, but when i decide to tackle the next wiring project i can use this info. Thank you

[@michaelboyle9512]

Josh buddy, I always end up on your channel looking for the info I need. Why didn't I come here first... I just put in a task description in the search and it led me to not what I needed. Thanks man. After 4 videos of wasted time I can friggin get this done.

[@carrangil]

Use of a square #1 bit helps tightening screws without slippage. Game changer for me.

[@More1TM]

Thanks, man! for this real good "how to for dummiez" ! Recommend this video!

[@nunyabidness9257]

Thanks for making this video, I’m wiring my solar powered cabin and am doing the receptacles now. Will definitely subscribe because your video was well explained and clear.

[@johnmartin4332]

In my opinion, you have the best home improvement channel on youtube. Very good explanations that are easy to follow! Keep 'em coming!!!!!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Hey John! Your comment means a lot to me and I really appreciate you taking time to tell me that. I mean it!

[@johnmartin4332]

@@TheExcellentLaborer Live in NC and recently closed in screen porch and have begun to wire inside and then finish it with shiplap. Your wiring suggestions have really helped me.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

That’s awesome! I hope one day I can do a screened in porch video too. I’ve been wiring houses for years. Since I was a teenager! Actually like doing. Thanks a lot for watching!

[@geraldnichols1853]

thanks for these great videos. Im currently wiring my cabin in northern Wisconsin and its a nice refresher course on wiring.

[@brendanbischoff6898]

Wired one today with both hot and neutral on the silver screws. Woops. Silly HVAC guy 😂 Thanks man lol

[@beckery2]

Renovating a home and I could never thank you enough for your information! I watched multiple KZbin videos but did not feel comfortable doing this until i found your post! You explain well succinctly which i greatly appreciate! Thank you again and yes i subscribed with all the bells! You rock!

[@openmind763]

Thank you Josh! Great presentation!

[@jefferycampbell4161]

Excellent explanations and demos. Thank you!

[@WMLor-gz2un]

Thanks for the details about the outlet, I am an electrical dummy, I appreciated it

[@joshockert]

This was great! So many of these videos are worthless but yours is awesome.

[@watavuemountain481]

Awesome as always brother!! We appreciate your step-by-step more than you know. I use your videos constantly as a reference as we build our tiny cabin. And we always have called them Outlets!!!! Thanx again, Be Safe!!

[@maciste1968]

Great video for beginners. Thank you

[@phillamoore157]

Outstanding.....thanks a million Josh!

[@abirmuhtadi1788]

thank you for turning the background music down. great explanation!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

You are welcome. I’m glad I can help. Take care!

[@loden888]

Very helpful, thanks!

[@beckery2]

You've got multiple views by me because I've had to refer to the video for my own safety and I could never thank you enough

[@TheKRISPYKREMEMAN]

Youre smart as all get out bro keep it going. Enjoy your content thoroughly. God bless you and prosper!

[@Homelesskateboards]

Thank you so much this video explains it all !!

[@paganpoetprophet6441]

Good instructional video ,, I always learn in your class .thank you

[@rajthegamer4099]

wow thanks so much for this addition to beginning of my electrical studies😊😊😊😊😊😊😊

[@merrydang8055]

Thank you great explanations did 3 of them and 2 more too go!!!! Thanks again

[@RFG910]

This was so helpful thank you

[@GoByYourself]

Excellent Video. Keep up the great work!

[@lcook0825]

Very well explained. Thanks.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I appreciate that Larry. You are welcome!

[@walter992]

Great info. One very important item to mention with a GFI is it MUST be the first outlet in the series to provide protection to all the other outlets. Great videos.

[@Carlos-sy7cv]

Beginner here. Can you explain?

[@Painfulwhale360]

@@Carlos-sy7cvbecause if the GFI outlet at the beginning of the circuit is tripped then it would turn off power to all the other outlets that follow after it.

[@joshuawhalen9192]

Another great video 👍. We cut the plugs at the bed wall leaving half as constant power the other half can be switched for like night stand lights /lamps

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Hey Joshua! That’s a good idea. I could understand using it for that reason. Never really thought about doing that. Thanks a lot for your input! Thanks a lot for watching as well!

[@williamsantoyo6132]

Thank you so much man this is gonna help me out a lot at work

[@carlcapello9956]

It looks all good to me so, I think I would buy all of them and have a good collection when I need them.

[@MrTooTechnical]

Great vid. I always like pigtails and always tape the around the perimeter of the plug for ultimate safety. Plastic boxes or not, I still tape. Woohoo. Thanks.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thanks for watching Dave!

[@joequinn3056]

At 9:20 u might wanna explain why all them wires are in the box in the 1st place because I had alot of ppl ask me why I need all them wires to install 1 outlet! I understand that other outlets/lights are being powered from another outlet/light! Not all ppl get that! BTW Love the channel!!!

[@mikeriley8546]

great video you told what i need to know thanks

[@JeffSG71]

Thank you !!! Great instruction!!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

You are welcome. Thanks for the compliment! Good luck on your project!

[@Renatousa17]

Thank you very much, this video helped me a lot.

[@Emerald_Acre_OH]

Thanks! You saved me money!

[@mustangmann3502]

Very helpful , thanks

[@Paco-hh4jd]

Best video ever! Thank you!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you Paco!

[@joaquinvaldez9473]

Your videos make me feel like the real Bob the builder! Absolutely great and to the point thanks brother 🙏 👍

[@tomtran4960]

Thank you good job

[@izzeddinkurdi-abojad5957]

I like precise people. You did a great job.

[@herberttsosie150]

You are definitely know your stuff nice job

[@teambillco]

Thanks, I just installed an outlet for my refrigerator.

[@user-rl6rl5mx3x]

Bro- I love these videos 🥳 can’t tell you how many times I’ve gone to your channel for reference, incredibly helpful information and perfectly explained 🍾🙌🏽

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

That just made my day. Thanks a lot man! I made these videos to be as helpful as they can be for people. I hope your projects are going well. Take care!

[@reneelelahrn]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge!!! Keep up the great videos.😁

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thanks a lot for watching! I will keep the videos coming!

[@SnakeAndTurtleQigong]

Thanks so much

[@RM12110]

Thanks brother you saved me over 10K

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Awesome! It’s always nice to know you save money by using your own two hands. I’m glad I can help!

[@sherrifrance5301]

Thank you!

[@sameernelson9684]

Great work

[@emmas.635]

This was a good video thank you

[@allaboutdetails3356]

Thank you 🎉

[@bodhitrees]

Great video, thank you!!!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you! I’m glad you found the video helpful. Good luck with your project!

[@joeynanez9897]

Like how you explain thanks

[@noahb.7838]

That was a great video.

[@carreonsgv]

Great job on explaining this it really help alot thank you brotha

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I’m glad you like this video. Thanks for watching!

[@ericgreen6880]

Thank you

[@BIGDTV76]

Good video sir.watching from phillipine

[@colorrainday]

You are amazing !

[@Monica-qb1gz]

Thank you :)

[@esam2017]

Thank you so much

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

You are welcome!

[@huskydigital]

RECEPTALE: According to the NEC, a receptacle is “a contact device installed at the outlet for connection of an attachment plug.” In other words, a receptacle is a type of outlet. A receptacle is a device that you can plug something into to power that device. In other words, a receptacle receives the plug, just like a trash receptacle receives trash. Glad to see you using the screws and not the push-in points, much better connection. I see wires in (push-in points) that run hot when under heavy loads, to point of insulation melting/burning off, leaving bare wires, waiting to short or arc! I usually (when running my own new wiring) will use 12-gauge for my 15-AMP receptacle not 14-gauge, just to have the extra current protection. Breaker will trip long before wire is damaged.

[@busybee3292]

You made my day

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Oh good! Thanks a lot for watching. Stay tuned for more videos to come!

[@noahbrewster8263]

Thank you!!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

You are welcome!

[@Woaw_69]

When I moved into a new apartment my landlord it’s really willing to help so I had to replace almost all my outlets/fix them

[@oh4013]

Great video!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you!

[@jimmy5540]

If you don’t have a pair of cutters to strip the wire you can always use the outlet to do so, the 45 angles at the top and bottom of the outlet are there for putting your wire in it and it will strip it

[@jorgedelvalle5937]

Thank you!!!!!!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

You are welcome!

[@davidrenteria3927]

Excellent channel josh

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you David!

[@Sandra-qs1mi]

My comment concerns the tabs at 2:08. I'm an elderly woman and just finished replacing outlets in my son's recently purchased home. The outlet at the front window, I took one of the tabs out. This allows for him to flip the switch at the front door as he enters his house for the floor lamp to come on which is several feet away. Then he can flip the switch to go upstairs for bed without crossing the room to turn the lamp off. I didn't remove the tab for the other outlet so that it would always be on allowing for him to use his vacuum cleaner as needed without dealing with the switch. He's very happy. Thought you might like an example.

[@rudyardgomeas6042]

You can also strip the wires, in a pinch, using the notches on the yolk by the screws, which are used to install onto the box.

[@jacquanallison9601]

Thanks for your videos I really do get a lot out of them . Can you do something on installing different dimmer switches .

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thanks! I can do that sometime. I appreciate you watching!

[@joehouck6007]

Thank you. I know about a lot of things. Electricity is not one of them.

[@bjgerlick]

Thanks comrade

[@Interestedsomewhat]

thanks

[@stevelopez372]

Ahhh. I see you are a Ground down Guy. Lol. Thanks for sharing.

[@LucreciayHerber]

Im a minor and just swapped out a old outlet with a modern one and it took 20 mins but it works :D Edit: I also turned off the breaker for safety and wore gloves with rubber thats on the palm and fingers. well it covers it with rubber

[@wendylaudone2449]

My husband and I are building our house and your videos have been really helpful. Simple and easy to follow. Question: Why do you use all 12/2 or 12/3. Why don't you use any 14 wire?

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Hey Wendy! Honestly we use all 12 wire for simplicity sake. I just buy about six rolls of 12/2 wire when I start a house and just start rolling with it. I don’t have to stop and grab different gauge wire. I know it cost more to do that but it’s just what I prefer. 12 wire for everything is overkill but I would rather have ever killed and under kills. I appreciate you watching! Good luck on your build!

[@surferdude642]

Some electricians recommend having separate circuits for receptacles and switches. 14 gauge for switches, light's and fans, and 12 gauge for everything else. It's not a bad design strategy rather than strictly by room and location. I would use 12 gauge throughout though, because the cost difference would be negligible in the grand scheme. If you ever wanted to add a receptacle down the road, you can get power from a switch box. For most cases switch boxes are required to have a capped neutral wire available.

[@HardHeadMilitary]

@@surferdude642 we use all 12, and run outlet home runs per room, and usually 2-3 lighting sections. Say a 2000sqft home with upstairs, all LED lighting. Downstairs 2 lighting circuits (right side and left side), separate circuit upstairs

[@SG-zh5xd]

@@HardHeadMilitary I did the same thing

[@TomCee53]

While 14 ga is code, many electricians & inspectors prefer 12 ga on new installs to provide for expansion.

[@paulciley3727]

I was taught the upside down outlets are your half-hots in residential. Power broken by wall switch. I don’t think it’s in the NEC. More of a convenience for the homeowner to know what outlet they can plug a lamp in to and what that mysterious wall switch does that doesn’t seem to go to anything. We always wired the half-hot to the lower outlet on the recep, to leave room for another appliance that may have a transformer integrated into the plug.

[@LazielNaevalas]

Thank you for the knowledge, do you have a video on three ways and four ways?

[@rayjoyce1]

Very simple explanation without the bullshit

[@samuelhenry9959]

Good

[@surferdude642]

Rather than using a box cutter for removing the sheathing I prefer my Klein sheathing/wire stripper for this purpose. Works for 14/2 and 12/2. It makes a nice clean cut without the risk of cutting into the insulation or your fingers. You can strip the sheathing before entering the box or outside the front and push the cable back in. Carlon now makes a 24.5 cu. in. new/old work box. The nice thing is you can mount to the stud using internal screws so it's easier to remove later if you wanted to upgrade to a 2 gang box.

[@michaelgould5167]

I was taught that installing a receptacle upside down indicated it was powered by a light switch. Usually where a nightstand by the bed would be.