[abruner]

I've moved into a very old house with very old electric wall sockets (one in each room.) Some of them are so worn, anything I plug into them falls out or is very loose which means if it gets kicked it comes right out. Does anyone know how to replace these? The internal wiring is very good, it's just a matter of a replacing the outside plate and tightening it up, but I have no idea how to go about it.

[WallyHelps]

I can't tell exactly how large the box is, but could you use something like this?
Any good electrical supply house (not big-box home improvement centers) should be able to help you out regardless if you take a receptacle with you.

Good luck,
WallyH

[hkstroud]

As Wally said we can't tell how big the box is. For that matter I can't be sure that there is a box. Of course the standard residential today is duplex outlets. Single outlets are available but their straps would probably be made to fit the standard duplex electric box. Remove the outlet and take it to a electric supply house (where electricians by material). You never know. Where are you located? That outlet is rated for 10 amps and 250 volts, not the norm for US residential.

[westnlas]

Try "www.hubbell.com" There is an e-catalog for all their parts. I didn't search further, because you know exactly what to look for. Good luck.

[Stratmando]

With power off, to remove the recepticles, remove just enough material to expose the 2 screws, and remove screws completely. Then slide receptacle up or down to get free from behind material. You need that backing so when new receptacle is installed it sits ON the wall, not floating. You don't have to replace with Hubbell.

[westnlas]

Actually, they can be replaced with tiger boxes and updated components or anything else you would choose. All you need is a hot wire and a common which seems present in the existing circuits. I was merely pointing out where you might find exact replacements. I would go to Home Depot and buy the cheapest thing I could find that I could make work and stick that in.