How To Install Outlet Box In Cabinet: Easy Steps For People Of Different Skillsets

Are you thinking about installing an outlet box in your cabinet? Can’t decide whether or not to get one? Worried about safety?

How to install outlet box in cabinet? Here’s how;

Now that you know how easy it is, let’s find out the details so you don’t face any safety hazards.

Here’s an overview of the installation;

Estimated Cost	Estimated Duration	Skill Level
$100	5 hours	Beginners

Reason To Get An Outlet Box In A Cabinet

If you are still concerned about whether to install an outlet box or not, let me tell you. You definitely can. In fact, many people do that, especially for kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Having an electrical outlet inside a cabinet has a lot of additional benefits. These are; 

Easy Access to Power

When you take out a styling or kitchen appliance from your bathroom or kitchen cabinet, what do you do? You look for an electrical outlet nearby.

Now, what if you have an electrical outlet inside kitchen cabinet? That means you don’t need to spend extra time looking for it. You can just power it right there. How convenient, right?

No Cord Clutter

If you have an outlet box inside your cabinet, you can power devices without cords running from the cabinet to other distant outlets. This helps to reduce cord clutter and also maintains a neat and organized appearance, whether it is in the kitchen or bathroom.

Hidden Power Sources

If there’s an outlet box in your cabinet, it allows you to discreetly power devices. Without the visible outlets on the walls or countertops, it provides a cleaner and more seamless aesthetic.

Wide Functionality

If you have an outlet box in your cabinet, it won’t just get handy when need to power styling or kitchen appliances.

You will be able to power any other appliances or devices that are stored or used around the cabinet area. For example, under cabinet outlet box for under cabinet or mirror lighting.

More Safety

An outlet box within your cabinet reduces the exposed outlets and cords. This minimizes tripping hazards and reduces the risk of electrical accidents.

Also, if you have toddlers or pets, electrical outlets become a possible safety hazard for them. But, if it is inside the cabinet, it is safe as they can’t reach it.

So, I guess you have your answer now. Even if you don’t feel the need now, I suggest still installing one.

You may not need it now but it will come in handy when you will suddenly feel the need for this.

Tools And Material Needed To Install An Outlet Box In A Cabinet

Before we move forward to how to install electrical box in kitchen cabinet, there’s one more thing you need to know.  I always suggest everyone purchase all the tools and materials needed for the process so they don’t have to struggle later. 

To help you do that, here’s the list of all the necessary tools and materials needed for this;

• Measuring Tape
• Pencil
• Power Drill
• Drill bit
• Screws
• Electrical Wire
• Outlet box
• Voltage Tester
• Cover Plate

If you are looking for how to install electrical box in log cabin, you will also need a chisel or a suitable tool. It is to carve out a recess in the log where you want to install the electrical box.

How To Install Outlet Box In Cabinet? [The Step-By-Step Guidelines]

Gathered all the tools?? Great! Now it’s time to start the installation process

So, without any further due, let’s dive into this!

Plan the Location

Do you have any preferred location where you want to install outlet in cabinet? If not, you must choose it before starting to work. 

The cabinet team thoroughly plans the placement of electrical cabinets to adjust the different requirements of different cabinet types. This ensures seamless appearance and wide functionality. Also, ensure your cabinet doesn’t have any bubble parts. Cause bubble parts will make your outlet more damaged.

If you don’t know how to do that, here’s a tip for you. Think about why you need the cabinet outlet. Your needs will help you to decide the suitable location for your outlet box.

There’s one thing. No matter which location you choose, if there’s any problem, fix it before installing the outlet.

For example, if you choose the side panel and fix the cabinet door panel or fix cabinet doors that overlap before starting to work.

Measure and Mark

How to add an outlet inside a cabinet? The first thing you need to do is measure and mark. Use a stud finder to find the studs in your chosen location. Use a measuring tape to measure your outlet box and a pencil to mark the layout of it.  Make sure to double-check your measurements. This is to ensure that they are accurate.

Drill Pilot Holes

Now, you need to use a power drill and drill bit to create a hole in the marked location. It is for the electrical wire to pass through from the inside of the cabinet to the wall cavity behind.

Run The Electrical Wires

Next, run the electrical wires in the cabinet. Start from inside the cabinet, then pass the electrical wire through the hole and into the wall cavity. Fix the gap between the cabinet and wall in this chance.

Install the Outlet Box

Then, insert the electrical wire through a knockout hole in the back of the outlet box. Make sure to secure the box to the cabinet using screws. Connect the wires to the outlet box. For drywalls, you can use remodel boxes instead of outlet boxes.

When installing outlets in hood cabinets, the cabinet back wall serves as an important support for the electrical components. So, use cabinet protectors to ensure longevity.

Secure & Test the Outlet

Use screws to secure the outlet box to the cabinet. Be careful and make sure it is level and secured properly. Otherwise, there will be a high risk of safety hazards.

Fix The paint chips on the cabinet around the outlet, and your cabinet will be as good as new. After you are done with the installation, attach an outlet cover over the box extension. This is to prevent any safety issues.

Metal boxes are usually used by cabinet installers to secure electrical outlets in upper cabinets. It ensures a safe and reliable power source for various appliances.

Places Where You Can Install Outlet Box

Are you confused about whether to install the electrical outlet on side of cabinet, front, or underneath? I have got the answers. Here are some places where you can install your outlet box in your cabinet;

Inside the Cabinet

If you need electrical outlets to power appliances and lighting or build charging stations within the cabinet, you should mount the outlet box inside the cabinet. For example, microwave cabinets. If you are installing outlet in cabinet for microwave, you should mount it inside.

Underneath the Cabinet

For under-cabinet lighting, small appliances, or devices such as coffee makers, blenders, juicers, or toasters, install the outlet box.

Inside Drawers

If you want to power devices like hair dryers, electric shavers, or charging stations for electronic devices in your bathroom cabinet, outlet boxes can be installed inside drawers.

On the Cabinet Side Panel

To access power in devices used on the countertops, you can install outlet on side of cabinet or the side panel. It can be super convenient.

Inside Pull-Out Shelves

To provide power to small appliances, such as mixers, food processors, or styling appliances, outlet boxes inside pull-out shelves can be a great option.

Safety Consideration: You Need To Keep In Mind

Looks like you have the end of it. To help you for the last time, here are some safety considerations you should make during the process:

• Turn off the power circuit at the breaker box or junction box to prevent any injury.
• Use the correct type of cabinet electrical wire for the installation. 
• Make sure the wiring connections are secure to prevent any electrical hazards.
• Ground the outlet box properly before starting to work to reduce the risk of electrical shock.
• Be careful not to overload the circuit and outlet. It can lead to overheating and fire hazards.
• Different types of cabinets, such as plywood cabinets and hood finished-back island cabinets, need different configurations. Cabinet makers and installers always carefully consider this. So, be careful of that.
• If you have a surface mount electrical box in cabinet, be mindful of the water and moisture exposure to the cabinets, especially for kitchen sink cabinets or bathroom vanity cabinets.
• There must be adequate clearance and ventilation in the outlet box to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Final Thoughts

This is how to install outlet box in cabinet. How does it feel? I really hope I was able to answer all your queries! The process looks easy but there are some things you must be careful of. Especially, about the electrical wiring. 

Always remember that safety comes first. Be safe and if you face any difficulties, contact professionals as soon as possible. Now, stop worrying. Take a deep breath and start working. All the best!  If you are interested in learning more about restoring Cabinet , stay with- Restore Journey.