How to Translate a 3-Phase Transformer Load

Turn off the power to the outlet by opening the appropriate circuit breaker on the building electrical panel. Use the voltmeter to test the circuit (the outlet) to make certain it is not still carrying an electric current before you proceed.

Unscrew and remove the outlet cover plate using a Phillips head or flat head screwdriver, depending on the type of screws. Behind the cover plate is the actual outlet. The space where the outlet is mounted is called the junction box. Remove the screws holding the outlet in place and gently pull it out of the junction box.

Disconnect the three wires attached to the outlet. Mark or make a note of the color of the wire in the center. This is the neutral, or ground, wire. The other two wires are 120 volt lines.

Fasten a wire nut to the end of one of the 120 volt wires. Wire nuts are caps that insulate the ends of exposed wires so they won’t cause an electrical short. You can buy wire nuts at hardware and building supply stores. Make certain the wire nut is fastened securely.

Connect the ground wire to one terminal on the single phase outlet and the remaining 120 volt line to the other terminal. Insert the new outlet into the junction box and use screws to fasten it in place. Position the new cover plate over the outlet. Make sure the outlet plugs are not obstructed before fastening the cover plate in place.

Turn the power back on at the circuit breaker. Check the power in the outlet to make certain it reads 110 to 120 volts.