Replacing a Switch or Receptacle

Replacing a Switch or Receptacle

   This is a simple job. Disconnect one wire at a time and reconnect it to the corresponding terminal on the new device.
   1. Shut off power to the circuit you will be working on, or to the entire house. Double-check with a voltage tester.
   2. Remove the cover plate and the two screws that hold the switch or receptacle to the box. Pull the device from the box.
   3. Loosen one screw terminal, unhook its wire, and connect the wire to the same terminal on the new switch or receptacle.
   4. After all the wires are transferred, carefully fold them back into the box, tighten the mounting screws and replace the cover plate. Restore power and test the receptacle to ensure it is working and grounded.

Safety

Never install a grounded-type receptacle in an ungrounded system without grounding the new receptacle. You could be in for a shocking experience.

Safety-related resources on the Web:
Index of Occupational Safety and Health Resources (http://turva.me.tut.fi/~oshweb/)
National Safety Council (http://www.national-safety-council.ie/)
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/homepage.html)
Other safety Web sites