We have some good news if you’re searching online for how to “add outlet to wall.” Your search ends here at Prairie Electric in Vancouver, Washington!

There are a couple of reasons for that.

We’re the region’s electrical contracting experts. That expertise has been built up over many decades of stellar work and superior customer service.

Second, the process of adding an outlet to a wall is fairly straightforward. You’re just a few seconds away from a solution.

However, we must add this disclaimer. If you are not an expert yourself, then you should call Prairie Electric right away. We’ll do the job for you in no time. You won’t have to worry about any of the dangers inherent in the broad world of electrical work.

For those of you who like to do it yourself (DIY), read on. Everybody else should contact Prairie Electric for home, office, and utility/public needs.

Adding an Outlet to a Wall: A Broad Overview

Those of you who are still here have undoubtedly read the disclaimer above. But in case you didn’t: This type of job should only be performed by certified electricians.

The content here is general info. It’s fascinating stuff, this electrical work. That’s why we like to share broad overviews like this with our blog’s readers who are not experts.

But installations of this type can be complex. A licensed electrician can install a new outlet with no problem. They can also perform the other duties of adding an outlet to a wall.

IMPORTANT if you rent or are part of a townhome or condo association. Confirm that you’re permitted to perform this type of outlet box work in the unit before you do it yourself.

Tools/Materials

Drill, wire stripper, jigsaw, screwdriver, pencil, voltage tester, drywall knife, pliers (lineman and needlenose), electrical tape

Cost

Adding an outlet can cost more than $100, but it depends on your specific material needs.

Time

Depending on proficiency and comfort level, somewhere between 30 minutes and a couple of hours.

Step by Step: Add an Electrical Outlet

(Reminder: This is a general overview of the process. Consult an expert.)

  • First, turn off the power to the wall or section at the electrical panel. Use a non-contact voltage tester to ensure that the power is off.
  • Next, find the proper location. Outlets should attach to wall studs. Make sure there is no plumbing or other mechanical things behind the wall at that location.
  • Then, determine how best to power the outlet — either from the breaker box or an existing box outlet location.
  • Up next: Drill hole to enable the installation of the electrical box. Trace an outline where you want the outlet to be. Use the tracing to cut through the drywall, using whatever tool is powerful enough for the job.
  • Run your electrical wires from the holes in the new outlet to the electrical panel or other outlets. Wire your new receptacle first and then connect the new wire to the existing wires circuit.
  • Remember your basic wiring principles. Three conductor wires (black, white, copper). Brass screws (attaching the hot conductors), silver screws (for grounded or neutral wire conductors), and green screws (for equipment ground conductors). White wires attach to silver screws; black wires to brass; and then the ground wire.
  • Next: Attach your box to the wall. Install the outlet cover plate.
  • Turn the power back on and test the new outlet.

Let a Professional Add an Outlet to the Wall

If you’re a DIY kind of person, you might be tempted to perform your own electrical work. But it’s important to understand that electrical work is a job best left to the professionals. Here’s why you should always hire a licensed professional like Prairie Electric in order to get the job done right and stay safe.

Safety First

The most important thing about any kind of electrical work is safety. That’s why it’s always best to let a qualified professional do the job for you.

Licensed electricians have years of experience in dealing with all sorts of electrical systems, and they know how to handle them safely and effectively. They know the electrical codes, safety tools (e.g., ground fault circuit interrupters), and more. Getting an outlet installed is, after all, more than just tightening the screws.

Quality Results

Pros provide quality results. Electricians are trained and certified. Their services meet industry standards and regulations. This means you can trust them to do the job right the first time around.

Not only will this save you time and money, but it will also give you peace of mind knowing that your electrical system is installed correctly and safely. Plus, you can always reach out to the electrician if any problems reoccur.

Peace of Mind

When you hire a pro, you can be sure your project will be completed on time and within your budget. This is something DIYers often struggle with when taking on complex projects, including outlets and other electrical installations.

Experienced electricians can address any issues or questions you have along the way. This helps resolve problems quickly.

Prairie Electric

Get in touch with Prairie Electric for all your electrical contracting needs! We have a large team of electricians, and we can help you with any project of any size.

Our team of highly skilled electricians is available 24/7. So if you’re thinking about doing some DIY electrical work around your home or business, don’t take any chances. Contact us today.

Our team will ensure the job is done safely and efficiently. We provide peace of mind along with quality work. And you’ll know that all your wiring needs have been taken care of properly by experts in the field.

The Daily Journal of Commerce named us the 2018 Subcontractor of the Year. And we’re proud of our work in the community. Our expertise extends across multiple projects. We’ve done electrical work in schools, hotels, production facilities, and much, much more.

We can also answer questions about wire nuts, light switches (light fixtures in general), existing outlet problems, existing circuit breakers, and much more. We’ve been helping our neighbors since way back in the 1980s. We look forward to speaking with you.

This blog post was updated on 5/30/23.