How to Install a Phone Jack: A Comprehensive Guide
Project Overview
Installing a phone jack is a relatively simple task that can be completed in under 30 minutes, making it a suitable project for beginners. The estimated cost ranges from $5 to $10, and the necessary materials and tools include:
- Telephone jack
- Wire strippers
- Screwdrivers
- Needle-nose pliers
- Wood screws or drywall screws
When Phone Jacks Are Needed
There are several scenarios where you might need to install a phone jack:
- To establish additional jacks for a landline phone system
- To extend phone service to remote locations in large homes
- To replace a worn-out main phone jack
Phone Jack Wiring and Installation
Materials:
- Phone cable (old four-wire or Cat-3 or Cat-5 data cable)
Steps:
-
Strip the Outer Sheathing:
- Use wire strippers to remove 2-3 inches of the outer sheathing from the cable.
- Be careful not to cut into the insulated wires inside.
-
Untwist and Strip the Individual Wires:
- Untwist the individual wires inside the cable.
- Strip 1/2 to 3/4 inch of insulation from the wires you need.
- In most cases, you’ll only need to strip two wires for a standard one-line phone line.
-
Identify the Wires:
Old Four-Wire Cable:
- Line 1 (primary phone line): red and green
- Line 2 (secondary line): black and yellow
Cat-3 or Cat-5 Cable:
- Line 1 (primary phone line): blue and white-with-blue-stripe
- Line 2 (secondary line): orange and white-with-orange-stripe
-
Install the Mounting Plate:
- Remove the cover from the phone jack to expose the mounting plate and screw holes.
- Thread the phone cable through the opening in the plate and position it against the wall.
- Mount the plate securely with screws.
-
Connect the Wires:
- Connect the stripped wires to the corresponding screw terminals on the jack, matching the colors of the pre-attached wires.
- Use needle-nose pliers to wrap the wire around the screw in a clockwise direction and tighten the screw.
-
Reinstall the Cover:
- Reinstall the cover onto the jack’s mounting plate.
Safety Considerations
Telephone wires inside your home carry a low-voltage electrical current and are generally safe to work on without shutting off the power. However, it’s important to follow these safety guidelines:
- Never touch the wires if they’re wet or if you have wet hands.
- Do not stand in water while working with phone jack wiring.
When to Call a Professional
If you’re not comfortable installing a phone jack yourself or if you have a complex installation, it’s best to call a professional. Phone wire is low-voltage, so you can use an electrician or a telephone jack installer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What type of plug does a phone jack have?
The two common types of phone jacks are RJ-11 and RJ-45.
Where should I install my phone jack?
You can install a phone jack on a baseboard or on a wall in the desired location.
Do old phone jacks still work?
Yes, old phone jacks may still work if you have an active landline telephone service. However, it’s recommended to test the jack for power before working on it.
Do you still need phone jacks?
Phone jacks are not required for cable, fiber, or satellite internet service. However, you may need a phone jack if you have dial-up or DSL internet service.