How to Install a USB Wall Outlet (Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide)

In 2025, the tangle of charging bricks and adapters fighting for space in our wall outlets is a universal frustration. Take a look by your nightstand or on your kitchen counter, and you'll likely see a cluttered mess just to keep your phones, tablets, and other gadgets powered up. What if you could eliminate that clutter and streamline your charging routine with a clean, built-in solution? Upgrading to a modern USB wall outlet is one of the most satisfying and practical DIY home improvement projects you can tackle.

While any project involving electrical work might seem intimidating, replacing a standard outlet with a USB-equipped one is surprisingly straightforward, even for a beginner. This guide is designed to walk you through exactly how to install a USB wall outlet safely and confidently. We will cover every part of the process in detail—from shutting off the power at the circuit breaker to wiring the new device—giving you a clear, step-by-step plan to complete this modern upgrade yourself.

DIY: The Easiest Way to Add USB C & USB A Charging Ports to Any Wall Outlet

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How to Install a USB Wall Outlet (Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide)

Adding a USB wall outlet is one of the easiest upgrades you can make to your home. Instead of scrambling for phone chargers or bulky adapters, you’ll have a sleek outlet that lets you plug your devices directly into the wall.

The good news? Installing one isn’t rocket science. With just a few tools and about 20 minutes, you can swap out your old outlet for a USB-enabled version — even if this is your very first electrical DIY.

Let’s walk through it together, step by step.

Step 1: Safety First

Before you touch anything, go to your breaker box and turn off the power to the outlet you’re replacing. Use an outlet tester or plug in a lamp to confirm the power is off.

⚠️ Pro Tip: Never skip testing. Even if you think the breaker is off, double-check with an outlet tester.

Step 2: Remove the Old Outlet Cover

Unscrew the cover plate and set it aside. Next, unscrew the outlet itself from the electrical box so you can see the wiring inside.

Step 3: Disconnect the Wires

Gently pull the outlet forward. You’ll usually see three wires:

• Black (hot)
• White (neutral)
• Green or bare copper (ground)

Loosen the screws and carefully disconnect each wire.

Step 4: Connect the New USB Outlet

Take your new USB wall outlet and connect the wires exactly as they were before:

• Black wire to the brass screw.
• White wire to the silver screw.
• Ground wire to the green screw.

Tighten each screw firmly, making sure there are no loose strands.

Step 5: Install and Secure the Outlet

Carefully tuck the wires back into the box and screw the new USB outlet into place. Add the cover plate.

Step 6: Restore Power and Test

Go back to the breaker box and turn the power back on. Plug in a device to test the standard outlets, then try charging something with the USB ports.

If both work — congratulations, you just upgraded your home!

Recommended Items

These beginner-friendly essentials from Walmart will make your project simple and safe:

• USB Wall Outlet with Dual Ports – sleek and beginner-friendly upgrade.
• Outlet Tester – essential for confirming power is off before you start.
• 6-in-1 Screwdriver Set – the only tool you’ll need for most outlet projects.
• Wall Plate Covers – a fresh finish after your install.

👉 These are affiliate links, which means DIYHows may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — helping us keep producing free, helpful guides like this.

Final Thoughts

Installing a USB wall outlet is one of those quick wins that makes your home feel instantly more modern. Instead of hunting for adapters or crowding a power strip, you’ll always have a charging spot ready.

The best part? You don’t need to be an electrician to pull this off. As long as you follow the safety basics, this is a DIY upgrade anyone can handle.

So go ahead — grab a USB outlet, shut off the breaker, and see how easy it is to modernize your space.