Having an outlet in your home that doesn't seem to work properly can be frustrating. However, in most cases, it's an easy fix that you can tackle yourself without calling an electrician. With a few basic tools and some simple troubleshooting, you can get that pesky outlet working again in no time.
What Causes Weird Outlet Issues?
There are a few common causes behind outlets that aren't functioning normally:
Loose Wiring
Over time, vibrations and movement in the walls can cause the wiring behind an outlet to become loose. This interruption in the flow of electricity can cause flickering power, sporadic functionality, or complete failure of the outlet.
Faulty Outlet
The outlet itself may be damaged or worn out. Outlets eventually degrade over decades of use. A faulty outlet that needs replacing is the source of many electrical issues.
Tripped Breaker
If an outlet stops working suddenly, it could be due to a tripped breaker. Breakers trip and cut power as a safety precaution when there is a surge or short circuit.
Switched Outlet
Some outlets are operated by light switches. So if an outlet isn't working, it may be controlled by a wall switch you need to flip on.
Diagnosing the Issue
Before attempting to fix a problematic outlet, you need to diagnose where the issue lies through some simple checks:
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Plug a small appliance like a lamp into the outlet to verify it's not working. The issue may be with your appliance instead.
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Check if the outlet is controlled by a light switch. Flip the switch and see if power is restored.
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Test other outlets on the same circuit. If they all aren't working, the circuit breaker is probably tripped.
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Inspect the outlet for signs of damage like discoloration or burn marks indicating a faulty outlet.
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Unplug nearby appliances and reset the outlet by turning it off and back on via the wall switch.
Checking the Circuit Breaker
Once you've verified the outlet itself is the problem, checking the breaker box is an essential first step. Here's how to safely do this:
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Head to your main circuit breaker panel, usually located in the basement, garage, or laundry room.
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Open the metal door and look for switches that have flipped to the OFF position.
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Carefully flip these breaker switches completely OFF and then ON again to reset them.
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Go check if power has been restored to the outlet now. The issue may have simply been a tripped breaker.
If resetting the breaker doesn't fix the outlet, it likely requires further electrical repair.
Replacing a Faulty Outlet
A loose wire connection or damaged components within an outlet can cause it to malfunction. Replacing the outlet is an affordable and relatively easy fix:
Gather Supplies
- New outlet that matches the electrical load of the existing outlet (15 amps is standard)
- Phillips and flat head screwdrivers
- Needle nose pliers
- Voltage tester
- Electrical tape
Turn Off Power
- Unplug any devices from the outlet.
- Flip the outlet's circuit breaker OFF at the panel.
- Use a voltage tester to confirm power is off.
Remove Old Outlet
- Unscrew and remove the cover plate.
- Unscrew the mounting screws holding the outlet in its electrical box and carefully pull it out.
- Unscrew the wire terminals and detach the outlet.
Install New Outlet
- Attach and screw in the new outlet's wires matching their corresponding colors.
- Push the outlet back into the metal box and screw it in securely.
- Replace the cover plate. Go flip the breaker back ON.
Checking for voltage before touching any wires is critical for safety! Adding electrical tape around the new wire connections helps provide extra insulation too.
Inspecting and Replacing Wiring
If the outlet's wiring itself seems damaged or loose, the conductors supplying power to the outlet may need replacement:
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With the circuit breaker off, detach all wires from the outlet.
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Carefully pull the outlet from the wall and inspect the wiring for damage.
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Use needle nose pliers to cut back and strip replacement wire 6 inches.
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Wrap the bare copper wires around the outlet's screw terminals in a clockwise direction.
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Make sure no copper wires are exposed once screwed into the outlet.
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Push the outlet back into the box and reattach the cover plate once wires are secured.
faulty wiring in an old home
Replacing old, brittle wiring with fresh 12 or 14 gauge electrical wire can return a malfunctioning outlet to full working order. Take precautions not to contact exposed wires or conductors when the circuit is live.
Why My Outlet Solution Didn't Work
Sometimes an outlet problem requires a more involved electrical repair. Here are some reasons a basic outlet fix may not have worked:
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Multiple outlets not working - This points to an issue along the wiring circuit, not just at the outlet. Checking connections in nearby junction boxes may reveal loose or damaged wires.
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Discolored or melted outlet - The outlet itself or surrounding wires may be overheating and hazardous. This symptom likely requires new wiring and professional electrical work.
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No voltage at the outlet - There could be a break in the electrical circuit providing power. Tracing wires back to the breaker, junction boxes, and appliances can determine where the wiring fault lies.
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Wall outlet feels warm - Heat coming from an outlet may indicate unsafe wiring conditions or too much current flowing through the circuit. Consulting an electrician is recommended.
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Circuit breaker repeatedly trips - A tripped breaker that trips again after being reset signifies an overloaded circuit or electrical short. Wiring improvements are needed to address the root cause.
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Buzzing, sizzling noises from outlet - These alarming sounds scream potential shock or electrocution hazard. Leave the outlet alone and call an electrician immediately.
outlet with exposed dangerous wiring
When a wall outlet presents tripping hazards, smells burnt, or gives other signs of hazardous wiring, it often requires professional electrical service for a permanent fix. Safety should be the top priority when dealing with electrical problems.
Preventing Future Weird Outlet Issues
To help minimize annoying outlet issues down the road:
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Don't overload outlets - Overstuffed outlets strain the wiring and lead to malfunctions. Use outlet splitters sparingly and sensibly.
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Check outlets periodically - Scan outlets in your home for problems annually before they lead to larger electrical faults.
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Replace old outlets - Swap out outlets over 20 years old for new ones as part of routine home maintenance.
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Use outlet covers - Protect outlets in busy areas from damage by installing covers or childproofing devices.
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Improve faulty wiring - If an outlet has loose, frayed, or damaged wiring, have an electrician inspect and upgrade the home's circuits for safety.
With some basic DIY troubleshooting and repairs, you can often get your home's quirky outlets back up and running properly. But when in doubt, consulting a licensed electrician ensures any lurking electrical hazards get properly addressed and the outlet gets fixed the right way.