Yes, it is possible to convert an outdoor light fixture to an electrical outlet. With some basic electrical knowledge and the right materials, you can replace an outdoor light with a weatherproof GFCI outlet.
Page Contents
What You’ll Need
- Weatherproof electrical box
- Weatherproof GFCI outlet
- Wire nuts
- Electrical tape
- Voltage tester
- Phillips screwdriver
- Wire strippers
Instructions
- Turn off the power to the outdoor light at the circuit breaker. Verify power is off by using a voltage tester.
- Remove the light fixture from the electrical box, being sure to disconnect all wires.
- Install a weatherproof electrical box if the current one is not rated for outdoor use. Make sure it is large enough to accommodate the GFCI outlet.
- Run the electrical wires from the light into the box, leaving about 6 inches of wire exposed.
- Connect the black (hot) wire to the brass screw on the GFCI outlet. Connect the white (neutral) wire to the silver screw.
- Connect the ground wire to the green screw on the GFCI outlet.
- Carefully tuck the wires into the electrical box, then secure the GFCI outlet with the included screws.
- Install a weatherproof cover plate over the outlet.
- Turn the power back on at the circuit breaker. The reset button should pop out on the GFCI outlet.
- Test the outlet with a GFCI tester to ensure proper function.
Safety Tips
- Always turn off power at the breaker before doing any electrical work.
- Double check wires with a voltage tester to be sure power is off.
- Only work on circuits you are comfortable with. Consider hiring an electrician if unsure.
- Use extreme care not to electrocute yourself or damage appliances.
- Be sure to connect wires properly and securely.
- Weatherproof all connections and install outdoor rated boxes and covers.
- Always follow local electrical codes for any wiring project.
Conclusion
Converting an outdoor light to an electrical outlet is a relatively straightforward DIY project. With proper materials and safe electrical procedures, you can upgrade your exterior lighting to add a convenient outdoor GFCI outlet.
Just be sure to do your research, follow local codes, and use extreme caution when working with household electrical. If in doubt, hire a professional electrician to ensure the job is done properly.
Having an outdoor outlet can be very useful for plugging in holiday lights, gardening tools, electric grills, or other outdoor activities. Just make sure any outlet near water sources or wet locations is connected to a GFCI breaker for safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to convert an outdoor light to an outlet?
Yes, converting an outdoor light to an outlet is allowed by electrical code in most areas. Be sure to check your local regulations and get any required permits before starting the project.
What kind of electrical box should I use?
Use an outdoor-rated, weatherproof electrical box when converting an outdoor light. Make sure it is large enough for the GFCI outlet you are installing.
Can I connect the new outlet to the existing light wiring?
Yes, you can connect the outlet to the existing electrical wires from the light fixture. The black wire is hot, white is neutral, and ground is connected to ground.
Should I use a GFCI outlet or GFCI breaker?
For safety near water sources, outdoor outlets should always be connected to a GFCI. You can use a GFCI outlet or connect to a GFCI breaker in the main panel. The breaker option provides protection to all outdoor circuits.
What if the wires are different colors than black/white/green?
Older wiring may have different colored wires. Always verify hot vs. neutral using a voltage tester. Connect the hot wire to the brass outlet screw, neutral to silver, and ground to green.
Outdoor Outlet Safety Tips
Installing an outdoor outlet requires working with dangerous electrical voltages. Here are some important safety tips:
- Turn off power at the breaker and verify it’s off before working
- Use a weatherproof outdoor electrical box
- Install a GFCI outlet or connect to a GFCI breaker
- Use weatherproof wire connectors and outdoor-rated conduit if needed
- Keep connections dry and sealed from the elements
- Test the outlet with a GFCI tester before using
- Don’t overload the circuit with too many appliances
- Inspect regularly for damage, replacing if needed
- Never touch outlets or appliances with wet hands
Following basic safety procedures for outdoor electrical work will help prevent electrocution hazards and electrical fires.
Helpful Resources
For more information on outdoor wiring projects, reference these helpful resources:
- Family Handyman – How to Replace an Exterior Light with an Outlet
- Better Homes & Gardens – How to Wire Outdoor Lights and Outlets
- The Home Depot – How to Install an Outdoor GFCI Outlet
- DIY Stack Exchange – Converting Outdoor Light to Outlet
- The Spruce – Installing Exterior Electrical Conduit and Boxes
With proper planning and attention to detail, you can safely upgrade your outdoor lighting to add a convenient exterior electrical outlet.