How to Connect a GFCI
- 1). Shut off the power for the outlet you will be changing. Locate the specific switch in the breaker box and flip the switch to "OFF." Check to make certain there is no voltage present in the receptacle, using a voltage tester. Plugging a plug tester into the receptacle will alert you if voltage is present and if it is wired correctly.
- 2). Remove the screws from the outlet cover, using a slotted screwdriver, and remove the cover. Remove the screws that anchor the receptacle, using a slotted screwdriver, and carefully pull the receptacle out of the electrical box. Study the specific connections on the receptacle of the wires.
- 3). Loosen the screws on each side of the receptacle, using a Phillips screwdriver. Remove the wires from the receptacle and pull the wires to the side, depending on which side of the receptacle you removed the particular wire from.
- 4). Connect both the black and white wires to the "LINE" side of the receptacle. Wrap the black wire around the brass screw on the GFCI receptacle that is marked "HOT." Tighten the screw with a Phillips screwdriver. Connect the white wire to the terminal with the silver screw, marked "WHITE." Connect the bare copper ground wire to the green screw, usually found on the bottom of the GFCI receptacle.
- 5). Fold and stuff the wires into the electrical box behind the GFCI receptacle. Screw the receptacle into place, using a slotted screwdriver. Position the GFCI cover over the receptacle and screw the cover into place, using the slotted screwdriver.
- 6). Turn on the breaker for the outlet. Plug a table lamp into the GFCI outlet, and turn the lamp on. Press the "TEST" button on the GFCI receptacle, noticing if the lamp goes out. Press the "RESET" button on the GFCI receptacle, and the lamp should come back on.
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