How to replace an electrical socket

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Woodie's DIY will show you how to replace an electrical socket. This can be done for decorative reasons or if there is damage on the casing.

How to do it

These instructions serve as a guide only. If in any doubt or your job differs in any way from the job described, consult a qualified electrician.

Step 1

Safety first! Make sure the electricity has been turned off at the fuse box before starting work. For extra safety check the socket with an appliance before starting. If the appliance won't power on, you know you have cut the electricity supply.

If possible lock the fuse box, if not put electrical tape over the switch on fuse box or leave a note to make sure nobody turns power back on while you are working.

Step 2

Remove the socket faceplate by simply unscrewing the screws. Keep these in case you need to use them later with the new fitting.

When dealing with a white Dry Lining Box in a wall as here, the earth cable is only connected to a terminal on the socket itself. Whereas if you have metal box in a wall, the earth connection will be connected to the metal box and then onto the socket.

Step 3

Take a note of which wires go to each terminal. When dealing with wires always remember:

• Green/Yellow = Earth
• Brown = Live
• Blue = Neutral

In an older house the wires could be different colours:

• Red = Live
• Black = Neutral
• Green = Earth

All new sockets will be labeled to tell you where to insert each wire.

• L = Live
• N = Neutral
• E or earth symbol = Earth