How to Install New Electrical Outlets in a Bedroom

Electricity is the heartbeat of a modern bedroom, yet older homes rarely have enough outlets to keep up with today's technology. Adding a receptacle involves tapping into an existing circuit, running new Romex cable through wall studs, and securing a new box to provide safe, reliable power where you actually need it. Done well, this project is invisible and permanent; done poorly, it is a significant fire hazard. You are looking for a clean, code-compliant finish where the new outlet performs exactly like the ones installed by the original electrician. We will focus on standard 120V household wiring, which is well within the reach of a careful, methodical homeowner.

  1. Kill the Power First. Locate the circuit breaker controlling the outlet you intend to tap into and flip it to the off position. Verify the power is dead using a non-contact voltage tester on all wires in the target boxes.
  2. Trace and Cut Carefully. Use your junction box as a template to trace the outline onto the wall where you want the new outlet. Carefully cut along your lines using a drywall saw, taking care to avoid hitting hidden studs or wires.
  3. Thread Cable Through Studs. Drill holes through the center of the wall studs between the power source and your new hole. Feed 14/2 or 12/2 NM cable through the studs, leaving at least 8 inches of extra wire at both ends.
  4. Secure the Junction Box. Secure a new 'old-work' plastic electrical box into the drywall cutout by tightening the mounting wings. Insert the cable through the cable clamp on the back of the box, leaving 6 inches of sheathing removed.
  5. Connect the Receptacle. Strip 3/4 inch of insulation from the wire ends and connect them to the outlet: black to gold screws, white to silver screws, and bare copper to the green ground screw. Tighten all terminals firmly.
  6. Verify Power and Finish. Fold the wires neatly into the box, screw the receptacle to the mounting bracket, and attach the cover plate. Restore power at the breaker and use a receptacle tester to confirm proper wiring.