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Installing a GFCI electrical outlet

Project Overview

Hiring an electrician to install an outlet for your water feature can be a rather expensive proposition, but it's critical that the job be done right. There are different ways to get a GFCI outlet outdoors. If you already have one in your garage, you can add a cable to run out to the exterior of the garage or out into the yard. If you already have GFCI outlet on the side of your house, you can run a cable to the area where the GFCI outlet is needed for your water feature.

3 Steps

  1. DIG A TRENCH
  2. POSITION THE CABLE
  3. POSITION THE OUTLET BOX AND WIRE

Step 1

DIG A TRENCH

Dig the trench from the electrical source (such as the garage) to the spot in your yard where you want the outlet. Dig the trench as deep as code specifies, but that’s seldom more than 1 foot deep. As much as possible, dig the trench where there is little change for it to be disturbed later on.

Step 2

POSITION THE CABLE

Lay the conduit in the ground and using fish tape, if necessary, thread the cable through the conduit. Cover it up partly to secure it in place. Pat sod back on top of the disturbed soil or replant with grass seed.

Step 3

POSITION THE OUTLET BOX AND WIRE

Connect the cable’s black wire to the line terminal on one side of the receptacle. Make a loop and place it clockwise around the screw. Tighten. Then make a loop with the white wire and wrap it clockwise around the other line terminal on the other side of the receptacle and tighten. Then connect a 6-inch piece of bare or green wire to the grounding screw on the GFCI. Connect a similar wire to the grounding screwing the box. Twist the wires together with the bare wire from the cable and cover with a wire nut. Fold the wires into the box, taking care not to disconnect them, and screw in or otherwise affix the box. Test the circuit by plugging a radio or other portable electrical device into the outlet. Press the test button. The rest button should pop out and the device should shut off. If not, check the connections to the box or replace the GFCI. Press the rest button to restore power.

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Project Details

Skill Level: Beginner

Time: 3 hours

Before you start, read this »

Due to differing conditions, tools, and individual skills, The Home Depot® assumes no responsibility for any damages, injuries suffered, or losses incurred as a result of attempting to replicate any of the home improvement ideas portrayed in this website Before beginning any home improvement project, review it thoroughly to ensure you or your contractor can finish the project and if any doubts or questions remain, consult local experts or authorities. Because codes and regulations vary greatly, you always should check with authorities to ensure that your project complies with all applicable local codes and regulations. Always read and observe all of the safety precautions provided by any tool or equipment manufacturer, and follow all accepted safety procedures.

Materials

  • PVC conduit
  • exterior-grade electrical cable
  • fish tape
  • a freestanding GFCI outlet

Tools

  • Narrow shovel
  • plastic pipe cutter
  • insulated screwdriver
  • pliers
  • work gloves
  • work boots
Print project details

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