Various issues, ranging from straightforward repairs to more complex electrical issues, can lead to outlets that don’t function properly. Improving outlet performance and ensuring safety necessitates getting to the bottom of the issue. Here are a few common reasons why outlets stop working and how to fix them.
Top Causes To Stop Outlets From Working
Tripped Circuit Breakers
In many cases, tripped circuit breakers are to blame when an outlet suddenly stops receiving electricity. To prevent damage to the wire, circuit breakers will trip when an electrical overload or short circuit occurs. There might be a problem with the wiring or an overloaded circuit that needs fixing if the breaker keeps tripping even after you’ve reset it.
Loose Wires
A loose wire could be the cause of an intermittent or non-functioning outlet. Over time, electrical connections can become loose due to frequent use or improper installation. Fixing the problem could be as simple as re-doing or tightening the connections, but handling live electrical wires yourself is never a good idea. Instead, you should let an electrician do the fix.
Blown Fuses
Excessive current can cause fuses to blow in older homes that use fuse boxes instead of circuit breakers, eventually cutting power to the outlet. Substituting an amperage-appropriate fuse for the blown one should resolve the issue; however, a recurrence of this problem may indicate a more serious electrical issue.
Burnt Outlet
A burnt outlet is usually the result of a more serious issue, such as overheating, improper connections or an electrical overload. Immediately contact an electrician if you observe any changes in color, sparks or a burning smell emanating from the outlet. Fixing burnt outlets as soon as possible is essential to avoid fire hazards.
Half-Hot Outlet
One side of a half-hot outlet, also known as a switched outlet, receives electrical current, whereas the other half does not. The only way for the other half to work is if it’s attached to a wall switch. The design’s goal is to facilitate the use of wall switches for lighting and appliance control. An electrician may have to change the wall switch or rewire the outlet to fix the problem.
Faulty Outlet
An outlet can stop working due to factors such as poor construction or damage caused by electrical surges. A broken outlet can cause lights to flicker, flash or produce uneven electricity, which can eventually cause the outlet to fail entirely. Changing out a broken outlet is the safest and most dependable way to get it working again and eliminate any risks.
Tripped GFCI Outlet
When GFCI outlets detect a trip, they immediately cut power. If the GFCI outlet trips frequently, it could be an indication of a ground fault or damp wiring. Resetting the outlet should fix the problem, but it’s best to have an electrician check it out to be sure.
Worn-Out Slots
Over time, the internal slots of an outlet might wear down and develop loose connections, which can cause the outlet to become unusable. If you don’t secure the plug tightly, you may experience intermittent power outages. The simplest solution is to change the outlet, which will also ensure that the connection remains strong.
Bad Installation
It’s important to be careful when positioning outlets because doing it wrong can lead to power outages, broken connections and even electric shocks. If you suspect faulty installation, the only approach to guaranteeing safe and proper operation is to have a licensed electrician evaluate the outlet and make the required adjustments.
Tips for Protecting Outlets
One of the best ways to protect your home’s outlets is to avoid overloading them. To do this, you’ll need to make sure you don’t plug in too many appliances in a single outlet. You’ll also find it helpful to use surge protectors since they distribute the electrical load evenly and protect the outlets from power surges.
It’s equally important to check the outlets on a regular basis for wear, damage and heat buildup. If you notice any issues, call a repairman right away. If you don’t fix outlet issues quickly, you greatly increase the risk of fire.
Be sure to install GFCI outlets in damp locations like kitchens and bathrooms. GFCI outlets protect you from electrical shock by automatically turning off electricity in the event of a ground fault.
Mister Sparky is here to help you keep your outlets in good working order. Call us today to schedule an outlet repair.