You might know that there are outlets designed to be tamper-resistant. These outlets can be a challenge to defeat, but they can be easily defeated with the right tools and techniques. In this article, we will show you how to defeat tamper resistant outlets. So stay safe, and don’t get electrocuted!
Many people might not know this, but tamper resistant outlets are quite easy to defeat. All you need is a small flathead screwdriver and a little bit of patience. But before we get into the details, let’s take a quick look at what tamper resistant outlets are and why they are used.
Tamper-resistant outlets are designed to be more difficult to open than traditional outlets. They are commonly used in children, such as schools, daycare facilities, and homes, where children might be present. The idea is that making it more challenging to open the outlet will help to prevent children from getting shocked. While tamper resistant outlets can be more difficult to open than traditional outlets, they can easily be defeated with a small flathead screwdriver.
What are Tamper Resistant Outlets?
Tamper-resistant outlets are a type of electrical outlet designed to be more difficult to tamper with than traditional outlets. They are available in single and duplex varieties and are typically installed in areas where tampering could pose a safety hazard, such as hospitals, schools, and public buildings.
Tamper-resistant outlets have several features that make them more difficult to tamper with. For example, they have a recessed design that makes them harder to access, and they also have a shutter mechanism that covers the contacts when the plug is not in use. This prevents people from accessing the contacts and potentially causing a shock.
There are many reasons why someone might need to defeat tamper resistant outlets. For example, perhaps you live in a state with smart meters, and you need to be able to turn your power off and on without having to go outside. Or maybe you like to have the ability to control your environment in any way possible. No matter your reason, it’s essential to know defeating tamper-resistant outlets no matter your reason.
A Detailed Guide on How to Defeat Tamper Resistant Outlets
Method 1: Using Hammer and Screwdriver
You will Need:
- Hammer
- Screwdriver
Step 1: Determine which of the three screws is the tamper-resistant one.
Step 2:
Insert a screwdriver into the hole and turn it counterclockwise. If it doesn’t turn, try using a hammer to hit the screwdriver until it loosens.
Step 3:
Remove the screws and take out the outlet cover.
Step 4:
Use a hammer and screwdriver to remove the tamper-resistant screws on the outlet. Be careful not to damage the outlet in any way.
Step 5:
Replace the outlet cover and screws, ensuring that the tamper resistant screws are correctly tightened. Test to make sure that the outlet is working correctly.
Method 2: Use a Drill
You will Need:
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Wire Cutters
Step 1: Drill a Hole
The first thing you need to do is drill a hole in the outlet. Make sure that it’s big enough for your screwdriver to fit through.
Step 2: Remove the Screws
Once you’ve drilled the hole, use your screwdriver to remove the screws. They should be pretty easy to get out.
Step 3: Pull Out the Outlet
Once the screws are out, you should be able to pull out the outlet. However, be careful because there are wires attached to it.
Step 4: Cut the Wires
Use your wire cutters to cut the wires. You’ll want to make sure that you cut them as close to the outlet as possible.
Step 5: Connect Your Devices
Once the wires are cut, you can attach your devices to them. Make sure that you connect them the right way round.
Step 6: Put the Outlet Back In Place
Once everything is connected, the outlet is back in place. You’ll need to replace the screws to hold it in place.
Method 3: Defeating Tamper Resistant Outlets with a Paper Clip
To defeat tamper-resistant outlets with a paper clip, you will need:
- A paper clip
- A pair of pliers
- A screwdriver
- Patience
Step 1:
The first step is to use the pliers to straighten out the paper clip. Next, use the screwdriver to remove the screws from the outlet cover. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the cover off the outlet. Be careful not to touch any of the electrical contacts inside the outlet.
Step 2:
Next, use the paper clip to open the clasp on the tamper-resistant outlet. You may need to use the screwdriver to pry open the clasp if it is tight. Once the clasp is open, you can remove the plug from the outlet.
Step 3:
Now that the plug is removed, you can use the screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the outlet in place. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the outlet out of the wall. Again, be careful not to touch any electrical contacts inside the outlet.
Step 4:
Finally, use the screwdriver to reinstall the outlet in reverse order. Again, make sure that you tighten all of the screws securely. Once everything is back in place, you can replace the outlet cover and screw it.
Method 4: With a Knife
To defeat tamper-resistant outlets with a knife, you will need:
- A knife
- A screwdriver
- Patience
Step 1:
The first step is to use the screwdriver to remove the screws from the outlet cover. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the cover off the outlet. Be careful not to touch any of the electrical contacts inside the outlet.
Step 2:
Next, use the knife to cut through the clasp on the tamper-resistant outlet. You may need to use the screwdriver to pry open the clasp if it is tight. Once the clasp is open, you can remove the outlet cover.
Step 3:
Now, you will need to cut the wires connected to the outlet. Be very careful not to cut any of the live wires inside the outlet. Once the wires are cut, you can remove the outlet from the wall.
Note: If you are uncomfortable with cutting the wires, you can call a professional electrician to do it for you.
Method 5: Using a Key
To defeat tamper-resistant outlets with a key, you will need:
- A key
- A screwdriver
Step 1:
Tamper-resistant outlets are becoming more and more common in residential and commercial settings. While these outlets offer increased security against tampering, they can also be defeated with a standard outlet key. Step 1 is to obtain a common outlet key available at most hardware stores.
Step 2:
Once you have obtained a standard outlet key, please insert it into the tamper-resistant outlet. Step 2 is to insert the key into the outlet and rotate it until you hear a clicking sound. This will unlock the outlet and allow you to access the wiring.
Step 3:
Now that you have unlocked the outlet, Step 3 is to remove the cover plate. This can be done by unscrewing it or popping it off with a flat head screwdriver.
Step 4:
Once the cover plate has been removed, you will have access to the wiring. Step 4 is to disconnect the wiring from the outlet. Be careful not to damage any of the wires while doing this.
Step 5:
Once the wiring has been disconnected, Step 5 is to reattach the cover plate. This can be done by screwing it back on or popping it back into place.
Step 6:
Now that the cover plate is attached, Step 6 is to reconnect the wiring. Be sure to reconnect the wires in the same order that they were disconnected. If you are not sure how to do this, consult a qualified electrician.
Step 7:
Finally, Step 7 is to lock the outlet by rotating the key back into place. This will prevent anyone from tampering with it again.
You can defeat tamper-resistant outlets and access the wiring inside by following these simple steps. While these steps require a little bit of work, they are a great way to bypass security measures and get the job done.
Precautions
It would help if you kept in mind a few things when trying to defeat tamper-resistant outlets. First and foremost, be aware of your surroundings. Tampering with an outlet can be dangerous, especially if you’re not familiar with how to do it safely.
Another thing to consider is that tamper-resistant outlets are designed to be difficult to tamper with. If you’re not careful, you may damage the outlet or even injure yourself.
With That in Mind, Here Are a Few Tips for Defeating Tamper-resistant Outlets:
- Be patient and take your time. Rushing through the process could lead to mistakes and injuries.
- Use a safe tool like a screwdriver or pliers to remove the screws.
- Make sure the outlet is grounded correctly before you start tampering with it.
- Disconnect any devices that are plugged into the outlet before you begin.
- Be careful not to damage the wiring or the outlet itself.
- Once the outlet is defeated, replace the screws and cover them with duct tape or electrical tape to prevent them from being removed again.
When it comes to defeating tamper-resistant outlets, safety should be your top priority. If you’re not familiar with doing it safely, it’s best to leave it to a professional. Electrical wiring can be dangerous if handled incorrectly, so please be careful!
Conclusion
Tamper-resistant outlets are a great way to add an extra layer of security to your home, but they can be defeated if you are know-how. In this article, we have shown you how to defeat tamper resistant outlets. While this method may not be 100% foolproof, it is an excellent way to deter most potential thieves. Thanks for reading!
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