How To Wire A Plug

If you are wondering how to wire a plug, you have come to the right place.

Wiring a plug is perfect for the beginner do it yourself-er. After you master this project, you can add some split receptacles to your kitchen.

But first, let's get to wiring a plug...

Step 1 - Turn off the power

WAIT!! Did you remember to turn the power off? It is always a good idea.

I think I will leave the bad "you'll-be-shocked-what-will-happen" joke out this time... oops, I guess I still said it, eh?

In your electrical box, you will have a white wire (common), a black wire (hot) and a bare wire (ground).

All three of these wires need to be attached to the receptacle.

Step 2 - Attaching wire to the electrical receptacle

The first this to do is attach the bare wire to the back of the electrical box (wrap around one of the screws) but leave enough of a "tail" to attach the the green or blackish screw at the bottom of the plug. This ensures that the plug and the box are now grounded.

Next, attach the white wire to one of the silver screws on the left side of the plug.

And lastly, the black wire goes on the right side of the plug. (the brass screws).

An easy way to remember which wire goes where is Black wire to Brass screw... Black and Brass start with the letter "B". I know, it seems extremely simple.

That's because.... it is!

Check out this diagram to simplify it even more.

How to Wire a Plug Diagram

Now that your done, you can add more plugs on the same circuit.

Attach the white and black wires to the corresponding screws and the ground wire to the box and carry on to the next plug and do it all over again!

If you are looking to wire a light switch...follow more simple directions.

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Hey, doing it yourself is great but if you are unsure of the advice given or the methods in which to job is done... don't do it. This site is merely a collection of how some people do home improvements. There is no way we can anticipate every situation and we do our best to inform of any risks for each job. Be sure to check local building codes for proper installation and permits. 

If in doubt, hire it out.