How to Install a USB Outlet

April 13, 2026

Installing a USB outlet in the home is a simple upgrade that can have a big impact. By adding a fast-charging USB Type-C outlet with Power Delivery in high traffic areas like the kitchen, living room or at-home office, it’s possible to charge up to four devices at once. A wall outlet with USB ports can easily replace a standard outlet with a few tools and a strong understanding of electrical wiring in the home. Follow this step-by-step guide on how to install an outlet with USB ports to add more efficient power where ever it’s needed.

Step-by-Step: How to Install a Power Outlet with a USB

While this step-by-step process is specifically for radiant® USB Outlets , the steps can generally apply to installing most wall outlets (both with or without USB ports). However, always refer to the installation guide included with your product before proceeding

Tools You Need for Installing a USB Outlet

•    Screwdriver  
•    Wire Cutter / Wire Stripper 
•    Voltage Tester (recommended)

Step 1: Turn off Power

Whether you’re new to DIY or practically a pro, the first step is always a reminder to TURN OFF POWER before doing any electrical work. Be sure to shut off the power for the outlet you are replacing at the circuit breaker box. Also let anyone else in the home know you’ve intentionally cut power and why, just to ensure they do not flip the power back on while you are still working.  

Step 2: Test the Outlet

We’re big fans of voltage tester for this, but you can also use a small, portable appliance like a hair dryer to check that the power is off. Just plug it in and confirm the appliance doesn’t turn on. Do not move on to Step 3 until you are positive no power is going to the outlet you will be replacing. 

Step 3: Remove Existing Outlets Wall Plate & Mounting Screws

Then remove the existing outlet’s wall plate and mounting screws. Pull the outlet slightly from the electrical box so that you can access the wires. If you have a voltage tester, double check the wires at this point too…just to be extra sure it’s safe to proceed.   

Step 4: Label the Wires

At this point we recommend labeling the wires for easily referencing which is which when connecting to your new USB Outlet. Typically: Black = Hot, White = Neutral, Ground =  Bare Copper.  

Step 5: Disconnect the Old Outlet

Now it’s time to disconnect the old outlet. Cut the Hot and Neutral wires. For the Ground wire, you can remove the wire from the terminal screw instead of cutting it. By keeping the loop shape at the end intact, you’ll make it easier to connect to the new outlet.  

Step 6: Strip Hot and Neutral Wires to ½-inch

For the cut Hot and Neutral wires, strip the ends to ½” – a gauge is included on the back of the outlet or strap for easy measuring. 

Step 7: Attach Stripped Wires to New Outlet

Using the installation instructions provided with the new USB outlet to confirm placement, attach the stripped wires to the appropriate terminals on your new outlet.  
Once everything is in place, tighten the screws to secure the wires. 

Step 8: Place Outlet into Electrical Box

We recommend gently folding or bending the wires to keep things neat as you place the new outlet into the electrical box and attach to the box with the mounting screws. 

Step 9: Snap on the Wall Plate

After the USB outlet is installed, it’s time to add the final touch. Snap on the new outlet’s screwless wall plate to complete the look.

Step 10: Test your Outlet 

Once the new outlet is fully installed, turn the power back on at your circuit breaker to test and confirm that everything is working as it should.   

Plug in a small appliance to the standard AC outlets of the device, then connect your smartphone, tablet or another device using one of the two USB Type-C ports.