In recent years, USB outlets have become increasingly popular in homes and offices. A USB outlet looks similar to a regular electrical outlet but with the addition of one or more USB ports to allow you to directly charge USB devices without a separate charger. Many find USB outlets highly convenient, allowing them to charge phones, tablets, and other devices without taking up additional outlets. This leads many homeowners to wonder: can you replace a regular outlet with a USB outlet?
The short answer is yes, you can replace a standard electrical outlet with a USB outlet, provided you take the proper precautions. The installation process is very similar to installing a new regular outlet; however, there are some additional steps, considerations, and safety issues to keep in mind to ensure you complete the project correctly.
In this article, we will provide a step-by-step overview of how to replace a regular outlet with a USB outlet, the tools and materials needed, key safety tips, and answers to some frequently asked questions. Read on to learn everything you need to know!
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Step-by-Step Guide
Replacing a regular outlet with a USB outlet can be a relatively straightforward DIY project for a homeowner comfortable working with electrical wiring. Here is a step-by-step overview of the process:
Step 1: Turn Off Power and Disconnect the Circuit
Safety first! Before doing any electrical work, you need to ensure the power is off to avoid the risk of shock or electrocution. At the circuit breaker, flip the breaker switch controlling the outlet circuit you plan to work on to the “off” position. Make sure power is off by testing the outlet with a multimeter or outlet tester.
You also need to confirm the outlet is not connected to any other outlets, lights or appliances in the room. The easiest way to do this is connect a simple outlet tester which will indicate if the outlet is connected to a GFCI outlet, light fixture, appliance, or additional outlets. If so, you will need to shut off power at the main circuit breaker panel.
Step 2: Remove the Existing Outlet
With the power disconnected, you can now safely remove the existing, standard outlet. Use a screwdriver to unscrew the faceplate cover and outlet mounting screws. Carefully remove the outlet from the electrical box but leave the existing wiring in place. You will detach these wires in the next steps.
Step 3: Detach the Existing Wires
Use a pair of needle nose pliers to grip and loosen each of the existing wire connection screws on the outlet. Carefully detach the wires, keeping track of what wires connect to each screw. Often the screws are labeled and color coded. The green screw is usually for the ground wire while the brass screws are for the hot wires and silver for the neutral/white wires.
Take photos if necessary to remember these connections for reattaching later. You can also wrap masking tape and label the wire groups for easy identification. Safely set aside the detached wires out of the way.
Step 4: Prepare the New USB Outlet
Examine the new USB outlet and identify the screw terminals. Note any labels or wiring diagrams included. The terminals will likely be colored similarly to a standard outlet with green for ground, brass for hot wires, and silver for neutral.
Some USB outlets come with a protective film over the ports; peel this off. Carefully bend the wire leads on the USB outlet to straighten them and strip off about 1/2 inch of insulation from the ends if necessary.
Step 5: Connect the Wires to the New Outlet
With the wires prepped, you can now connect them to the new USB outlet. Wrap the ground wire around the green screw, the hot wires to the brass screws, and the neutral wire to the silver screw, following proper wire color coding and any outlet labels. Secure the connections tightly by hand with a screwdriver. Double check connections are tight.
Step 6: Mount the New Outlet
Position the new USB outlet correctly into the electrical box with the ports facing outward (not into the wall). Hold it steady while screwing in the mounting screws. Do not pinch or crush any wires. Replace the faceplate cover and screw it in securely.
Step 7: Restore Power and Test
With the new USB outlet fully installed, you can now turn the power back on at the circuit breaker. Plug in a small appliance like a phone charger or lamp to test that the outlets function properly. The USB ports may take a moment to provide charging power.
Check for any sparks, smoke or sizzling sounds as signs of a faulty wiring connection. If anything seems defective or the GFCI outlets trip, turn the power back off immediately and double check the wire connections before trying again. The USB ports should now be ready to safely charge your devices!
Materials and Tools Needed
Installing a new USB outlet will require having some basic electrical work supplies on hand, including:
- Electrical tape
- Needle nose pliers
- Screwdrivers
- Wire stripper
- Voltmeter or multimeter
- Outlet tester
- Safety gloves and eye protection
In addition to the standard electrical supplies, you will also need:
- New USB outlet designed to replace existing outlet, matching amperage/voltage ratings
- Electrical box extender (if replacing single outlet with double outlet)
Having the right tools and materials is important for safety and success! Taking an inventory before starting the project will ensure you have everything you need. Consult an electrician if unsure what electrical supplies are required.
Key Safety Tips
When doing any electrical wiring work, safety should always be the top priority. Here are some key safety reminders:
- Always turn off power at the circuit breaker and double check it is off before working
- Never work on live wiring
- Follow all electrical code requirements for your local area
- Only connect wires to matching screw terminal colors
- Make sure screw terminal connections are very tight and secure
- Use only UL-listed outlets and parts
- Consider wearing rubber-soled shoes when working with electricity
- Never leave wires exposed – make sure they are either connected or capped off
- Plug in a lamp or tester appliance first to confirm power and grounding before using the new outlet
- If at any point you feel unsure about the work, consult an electrician
Working slowly and carefully while following safety procedures will go a long way towards a successful installation. Having the circuit powered off and using outlet testers are two of the easiest ways to protect yourself from accidental shock. Only conduct DIY electrical projects within your skill level.
Tips for Installing a USB Outlet
Here are some additional helpful tips to keep in mind for a smooth installation when replacing an outlet with a USB outlet:
- Purchase a USB outlet with the same amperage, voltage, and number of plugs to directly replace existing outlet
- Take photos of wire connections before disconnecting for reference
- Label wires with masking tape as they are disconnected
- Test USB ports before mounting the outlet to ensure proper functioning
- Mount the outlet with the USB ports facing outwards (not into the wall)
- Plug in and test a small appliance before using the outlet regularly
- Only use USB outlets intended for permanent, hardwired installation
Carefully following the instructions and using safe electrical work practices will ensure your new USB outlets are properly installed and safe to use. Paying attention to details like positioning the ports correctly makes a big difference in the finished look.
Finding the Right USB Outlet
When selecting a replacement USB outlet, you want to choose one that fits the following criteria:
- Intended for permanent, hardwired installation – not portable plug-in types
- Durable, high-quality construction from reputable brands
- UL-certified and meets local electrical codes
- Has amperage, voltage, plugs that match existing outlet
- Offers number of USB ports and charging speed you desire
- Has integrated GFCI outlets if needed as required by code
- Designed to easily connect wires to screw terminals
Many options are available online or at hardware stores. Pricing ranges from about $15 up to $50 or more depending on USB ports, outlet design, and extra features. Investing in a reliable, UL-certified outlet from Leviton, Eaton, Hubbell, Legrand or other major brands is worth the extra cost.
Carefully check the product descriptions for the outlet style, maximum power rating, number of AC plugs, and USB ports to find one that meets your needs. Retail staff can also assist you in finding the right replacement USB outlet.
FAQs
Some common questions about upgrading to a USB electrical outlet include:
Is it difficult to install a USB outlet?
Replacing an ordinary outlet with a USB one is generally straightforward for anyone comfortable doing basic electrical work. As long as proper precautions are taken and directions followed, the physical installation process is very similar to installing a new regular outlet. Paying careful attention to wire connections and following safety tips is key however. Consult an electrician if ever in doubt.
Can you put a USB outlet anywhere?
USB outlets can be installed almost anywhere a regular 120V electrical outlet is positioned as long as there is sufficient existing wiring and box space. Height or location doesn’t matter. The one exception is wet areas like bathrooms or kitchens near a sink where code requires special GFCI outlet protection – so make sure your new USB outlet includes GFCI if needed in that location.
Do you need a neutral wire for a USB outlet?
Yes, USB outlets require a neutral wire, which provides the necessary power for the USB charging ports. Trying to install a USB outlet without a neutral can be dangerous and lead to overheating. If replacing an older outlet that lacks a neutral, you may need to run new wiring to support the USB outlet. Consult an electrician if you are unsure whether your electrical boxes include neutral wires.
Can any outlet be replaced with a USB?
In most cases yes, as long as the USB outlet is rated for the same voltage and has the same number of plugs as the existing outlet. The only time an existing outlet may not work is if it an older, ungrounded 2-prong outlet without a ground wire. For safety, building codes now require outlets to be grounded 3-prong so some wiring updates would be needed in that case.
How many devices can you plug into a USB outlet?
The number of devices you can charge at one time depends on the wattage of the USB outlet and the power demand of the devices. Most standard USB outlets provide about 15-18 watts per port. This is enough for tablets and phones, but larger devices like some laptops may need more power. Check the outlet specifications and your device charging requirements. Spreading devices over multiple outlets reduces the electrical load on each one.
Is it safe to install a USB outlet yourself?
It is safe for many homeowners to install a USB outlet themselves, as long as proper safety precautions are followed and the steps are done correctly. Making sure the power is turned off, following wiring diagrams, testing connections thoroughly, and using extreme care when handling wiring allows a DIYer to safely upgrade outlets. However, any uncertainty about the required wiring or hesitation to do the work means it’s wise to call in an electrician instead.
Conclusion
Installing a USB outlet in place of an ordinary electrical outlet is a worthwhile upgrade that adds modern connectivity and convenience throughout a home. With adequate electrical knowledge and experience, a homeowner can safely replace an existing 120V outlet following standard precautions. Key steps include turning off power, removing the old outlet, connecting wires to the new USB outlet properly, mounting the outlet, restoring power, and testing operation.
Choosing durable USB outlets designed for permanent installation that match the characteristics of the existing outlets will provide fast and convenient device charging integrated right into the home’s electrical system. By taking the proper safety measures and following directions carefully, installing a USB outlet can be an easy, beginner-friendly DIY electrical project. Just be sure to call in a professional electrician if any wiring issues come up that you are uncertain how to handle correctly.