Wouldn’t it be great if you could just stop moving your phone charger power brick from one outlet to another? Fortunately, installing an outlet with built-in USB ports is a fairly simple DIY task that can make a world of difference. When you’re done, you can charge your mobile devices to your heart’s content while freeing up space for available outlets.
We have put together a guide on exactly what you will need to install a USB outlet yourself. Before we begin, though, an important caveat: Regulations governing electrical work in the home vary by country and state. Before following the steps below, make sure you are authorized to perform electrical maintenance in your area and have the necessary safety tools to do so.
Step 1: Select a USB-equipped outlet
A few years ago it was hard to find a power outlet with built-in USB ports, but now there are several options available. Higher-end models from brands like Legrand and Leviton are some of our top recommendations, but you can also choose a cheap no-brand outlet. You’ll find a variety of configurations and colors available, and you can relax knowing they’re built and tested to meet safety standards.
Keep in mind, however, that USB-equipped plugs are much deeper than normal designs due to the extra electronics that must be packed. Since this is the case, you will need approximately 3 inches of depth into the wall to install your new outlet. Once you’ve researched a location that’s ready for an upgrade, be sure to check the size of the junction box behind the outlet before you buy.
For our guide, we have chosen the Legrand TM826USBWCCV socket which supports two USB ports and two tamper-evident sockets. You should be able to pick up this model (and similar units) for around $25. You can check it out here.
Depending on your existing outlet, you may also need to choose a wall panel to surround the outlets. Our outlet wall panel has a horizontal stripe between the outlets, where the new USB ports will be located. So to complement the USB-equipped outlet, we chose a screwless wallplate from Legrand, matching the color and finishes.
Step 2 – Treat yourself to an output voltage tester
Along with a screwdriver, another tool we highly recommend for this job (or any that involves electrical outlets) is a voltage tester. Obviously, we’ll need to turn off the electrical panel before replacing the outlets, but how would we do it? absolutely Make sure the outlet is not live, you should check it with a voltage tester.
Inexpensive devices like this non-contact voltage tester from Klein Tools provide visual and audible alerts when voltage is detected in an outlet. It’s available for around $20, and there’s also an upgraded NCVT-3 model equipped with a flashlight that can be had for less than $25.
Once you have a voltage tester handy, test it in an outlet you know is live to make sure it works.
Step 3: Turn off the power
Once you’ve decided on the outlet you want to replace, go to your home’s electrical panel. Turn off the power to the room/outlet you are changing, or to make sure there is no power, turn off the power completely.
Step 4 – Remove the existing wall panel and outlet
Use your voltage tester to double check that power is off, then carefully unscrew and remove the wall panel and junction box outlet behind.
Step 5 – Consider Existing Wiring
Take a photo of the existing wiring (or draw a quick diagram) so you know how to rewire the new outlet when it’s installed. In North American homes, expect neutral (white), hot (black), and ground (bare copper) wires. Other continents have different codes, so be sure to check existing links. Even better: mark the wires before removing them.
Step 6: Remove the wires from the old outlet
Take your screwdriver and loosen the retaining screws that hold the electrical wires in place. Note that they can be held in place with quick release clamps instead of screws. If so, find a small screwdriver or similar tool (a SIM tool will even do the job) and press the recessed release button to release the wires.
Step 7 – Plug in the USB-Equipped Plug
Reverse the steps to connect the new outlet. Next, check that the neutral, hot/hot, and ground wires are firmly connected to their respective terminals.
Step 8 – Secure the outlet and wall plate
The hard work is over! Connect the new plug to the junction box. The screw holes are in the same place; this means you can use the same ones from the old outlet without having to drill new holes in the wall.
Now affix the wall plate onto the plinth before stepping back and admiring your handiwork.
Step 9 – Turn on and test
Go back to the circuit breaker and turn on the outlet in question. Use a voltage tester to verify that the outlet is working and that the proper amount of power is flowing before plugging in the USB device for testing.
Because these outlets are relatively easy to install, they’re an affordable option (it’s just $30) to upgrade your home in ways many wouldn’t dream of, but anyone looking for a fresh, new charging point can to benefit. If only there was a better way to bring wireless charging into your home.
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Source: newstars.edu.vn