Inefficient outlets are a frequent issue for homeowners. Sometimes it seems sensible to try a few troubleshooting techniques first to see if you can fix the issue without hiring a professional. But when it comes to electrical work, it should be done by a licensed electrician.
So you need most when your outlet is malfunctioning, and you cannot get power in the space, it’s time to hire an expert for outlet installation services, and if you need professional Roosevelt Electrical Services, our electricians are available 24/7 to help, so you have nothing to worry about now.
Here is a list of some reasons why your outlet is not working:
Switched Plugs
Wall switches are occasionally used to control outlets. The wall switches for floor lamps are common in regions without overhead illumination, but occasionally these outlets are mistakenly used for other things. Therefore, before becoming upset because your outlet isn’t working, make sure the switch is properly turned on. Although (let’s be honest) we have all done it, it may seem stupid to ignore such a simple action.
A Device Issue, Not An Outlet Issue
Sometimes you may believe the outlet is dead, but the issue is with the appliance or item you are attempting to use. Try plugging another device into the same socket to be sure that’s not the problem. If it functions properly, there is a device issue.
Tripped Breaker
When you frequently plug in more devices than the circuit can handle, the circuit can become overloaded, leading the circuit breaker to trip.
Check the breaker panel in your house if your outlet is not working. If a breaker trips while the switch is in the ON or OFF position, reset the breaker by flicking it to the OFF position and then back to the ON position.
If this doesn’t work to fix the issue and the breaker returns to its tripped state, you may be in a potentially dangerous situation and should call an emergency electrician in your area immediately.
Tripped GFCI Outlet
Near sinks or damp areas, new buildings must include GFCI outlets (ground-fault circuit interrupters). This appliance senses excessive heat and turns off both itself and the other outlets on the same circuit instead of flipping the circuit breaker.
Find the identical outlet nearby and push the reset button if this occurs. You are good to go if it resets and your outlet starts working again, but you must call a licensed electrician if it doesn’t reset or if the problem persists.
Faulty Outlet
An outlet can burn out and stop working, although it isn’t common. You might want to think about hiring a local electrical electrician to replace the outlet if it is broken.
Improper Installation
The following conditions are examples of when an outlet won’t function due to an improper installation or a loose connection:
- Backstabbing: Wires are put into a connection inside the gadget rather than being secured to outlets with screws. This results in a loose connection and burnt-out wires.
- Incorrect use of wire nuts: All wires are covered and connected together with wire nuts. However, improper usage of wire nuts will result in a malfunctioning outlet.
- Loose connections: Reattaching any loose wires is necessary; older wiring is more likely to have this issue.
We advise you not to do DIY attempts if you are unfamiliar with electricity because they could result in harmful mistakes. Working with safety codes is part of their training as electricians. So, it’s best to leave it to experts immediately.
Precautions To Take To Prolong The Life Of Your Electrical Outlets
Both home and commercial electrical wiring systems can last for five to six decades and, in some circumstances, even longer. There isn’t a set period of time that an electrical wire installation must last, though. It is dependent on use, environment, maintenance, and upkeep.
Here are some suggestions for extending the usable life of your electrical outlets:
- Replace outdated components
Revitalize and modernize your electrical system by getting rid of outdated, worn-out wire components. These could be outdated switchboards, meters, relays, or breakers. Old parts are ineffective, unreliable, and may even endanger the system’s overall performance and safety.
- Run regular inspections
Make it a practice to regularly inspect your electrical system to guarantee that it is always in good shape. Have a qualified electrician check the wires’ performance specifications and physical state. You can find and fix minor defects before they become problems by doing this at least once a year or every few months.
- Use tested and certified appliances
Don’t connect low-quality electrical equipment and appliances to the mains. Untested, uncertified, and poorly built devices pose an expensive risk to the building’s wiring as well as to its occupants. Appliances should only be purchased and used from reputable electrical manufacturers and wholesalers.
- Avoid overloading
In offices, residences, and businesses, overloading is a common issue. Overloading has the potential to seriously harm the electrical system in the absence of active protection. Before connecting any device to your outlets, always verify the power rating to be sure your system can take the added load.
- Check Your Outlets with a Multimeter
You can measure voltage and current with the help of a multimeter, which is a useful device. You can use it to inspect switches, test batteries, and identify circuitry issues. A multimeter can be very helpful in giving a homeowner a piece of mind by letting them know when an electrician needs to be called and when a simple fix might be possible.
- Make sure your breakers are GFCI-protected
One of the most popular and efficient methods of electrical safety is the use of ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). When there is a problem with the circuit, usually when the current flowing “in or out” of the electrical panel does not measure the same, GFCI breakers immediately close outlets. The outlet or circuit will not function after the GFCI mechanism has been activated until the problem has been fixed. This greatly reduces the risk of fire or injury.
Maintaining a fault-free electrical system is necessary if you want to continue enjoying its benefits.
Whenever you need any electrical services, don’t hesitate to contact our Roosevelt Electrical Services team to guide you on extending your wiring and cable life and getting your money’s worth. You can also check out other blog articles to know more about our electrical services offer.