Every day it seems we acquire another device that requires charging in an electrical outlet, so there’s always a need for more of them. Some are tiny, others are large, and they all demand charging. All too often the traditional two-plug outlet is outpaced by the need for more plugs in more places.
Today you can replace that traditional outlet with one that rotates, allowing you to find a variety of sizes and shapes that turns a bulky plug out of the way to make room for another one. With the unending number of cellphone chargers and cordless appliances, not to mention hair dryers and curling irons that need power, you’ll probably want to replace many of the outlets in your house. The devices are also made with four and more outlets.
The device costs about $12 apiece. If you’re intimidated by electrical projects, by all means call an electrician, who will charge $170, which includes labor and material, to replace two of them. You can do it yourself for $24, the cost of the two devices. You need a screwdriver and a basic understanding of how the electrical power in your house works.
To make the swap, turn off power at the circuit panel and test the outlet to make sure it’s off. Then unscrew the existing wall plate and the screws connecting the outlet to the electrical box to access the wires and remove them. You install the new rotating outlet by removing the faceplate, inserting the wires in holes marked on its back, and tightening them. Fold the wires back into the outlet, and then the outlet into the box, and cover with the faceplate that snaps in place. It’s ready to work when you restore power to the circuit panel.
Pro Cost—DIY Cost—Pro time—DIY Time—DIY Savings—Percent Saved
$170—$24—1.0—0.8—$146—86 percent
