How to Install a GFCI USB Outlet

April 13, 2026

A USB outlet with GFCI delivers both charging capabilities and point-of-use ground fault protection for superior safety and easy use. This combination device is ideal for kitchens and other areas that require GFCI protection by National Electrical Code and are also high-traffic gathering spots where the family commonly charges up their devices. A UBS outlet with GFCI can be installed in place of a standard outlet or standard GFCI with a few simple tools and a lot of know-how. Follow our step-by-step guide to make the swap.

Guide to Installing a USB Outlet with GFCI Protection

Installing a GFCI receptacle can be a bit more complicated than installing a standard outlet, so it’s important to be prepared and informed. 

Required Tools for Installation

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

Guide to Installing a USB Outlet with GFCI Protection

Installing a GFCI receptacle can be a bit more complicated than installing a standard outlet, so it’s important to be prepared and informed. 

Required Tools for Installation

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

Step 1: Turn Off Power

Begin by turning off the outlet’s power at the breaker…and then absolutely double-check the outlet to be sure there is NO power. You can use a circuit tester if you have one or just plug in a handheld appliance to confirm it won’t turn on.

IMPORTANT: Absolutely NOTHING should be done at the outlet until you have guaranteed the power is off.

Step 2: Remove the Existing Outlet

Remove the existing outlet by unscrewing the wall plate and slightly pulling the receptacle out of the wall so that you have access to its attached wiring.

Label the wires before disconnecting, especially if you are not very familiar with electrical wiring.
•    Line vs. Load: Terminals should be marked on the back of the existing outlet
•    Wire Type: Black wires are Hot, the white wires are Neutral, and the bare wire is Ground.

When disconnecting the wires, you have two options:
•    Pull a wire from its position rather than cutting it, keeping the looped shape at the end to make it easier to connect to the new outlet. This method helps ensure you don’t cut the wires too short.
•    If you cut the wires when disconnecting, you need to strip them to ½” (there is a gauge on the device strap to make it easier to measure) before you attach them to the new outlet. 
 

Step 3: Install the New USB GFCI Outlet

•    Once ready, attach all wires per the Installation Instructions.
•    Once all the wires are installed at the proper locations, tighten each terminal screw.
•    Fold the wires before connecting them. If the wires were folded within the box before you removed the existing outlet, maintain the fold if possible.
•    Gently push the folded wires back into the wall.
•    Screw the outlet into the wall box.
 

Once the new outlet is mounted into the wall box, it’s time to add the wall plate, which is a two-step process.

•    Srew the wall plate subframe to the device.
•    Snap on the screwless wall plate for a sleek finishing touch.
 

Step 4: Turn on the Power

Once installation is complete, turn the power back on at the breaker. Then, press the reset button on the outlet and test the GFCI USB Outlet. Be sure to also check the USB ports to be sure they work properly.