Electrical fires can happen fast and cause immense damage if you don't know how to prevent them. Faulty outlets are one of the leading causes of electrical fires in homes. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to fix these outlets and reduce the risk of disaster striking.
Identifying Faulty Outlets
The first step is learning how to identify outlets that need repair. Here are some red flags that indicate an outlet is faulty:
- The outlets feel warm or hot to the touch - This suggests overheating inside the outlet which can lead to melted plastic and fire.
- You see scorch marks or discolored plastic - This indicates previous overheating episodes.
- There is a burning smell coming from the outlet - This means overheating is actively occurring.
- You hear crackling, buzzing or hissing noises - These sounds usually accompany electrical arcing which can ignite fires.
- Your circuit breaker is tripping or fuses are blowing out frequently - This points to an overloaded outlet or short circuit.
- Plugs are very loose or fall out easily - This signifies worn out contacts unable to grip plugs properly.
- You get electric shocks from the outlets - Exposed conductors can electrocute you.
Trust your senses - if an outlet looks, feels or smells dangerous, it likely needs replacement.
Dangers of Faulty Outlets
It's critical to understand why faulty outlets must be fixed immediately. Here are some potential dangers:
- Electrical fires - Overheating and electrical arching can ignite nearby combustibles. This fire spreads rapidly through walls.
- Shock hazards - Exposed electrical contacts can shock or electrocute anyone who touches them.
- Short circuits - Damaged wiring can create shorts tripping breakers and blowing fuses. This can leave you in the dark.
- Appliance damage - Appliances plugged into faulty outlets can get destroyed by power surges and spikes.
These risks impact not just you but also your family and your property. Getting outlets fixed quickly is crucial.
Replacing a Faulty Outlet Yourself
Many homeowners can safely replace outlets themselves. Follow these steps:
1. Turn off power and test
Shut off power to the outlet at the breaker box. Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm power is off.
2. Remove the old outlet
Unscrew the outlet cover plate and unhook the outlet from the electrical box by removing the screws. Pull the outlet out.
3. Disconnect wires
Unscrew the outlet wires one by one and disconnect them. Take photos of wire positions to remember later.
4. Install new outlet
Attach wires to the new outlet matching their original positions. Push outlet back into the box and screw it in securely.
5. Test and restore power
With power still off, use a receptacle tester to confirm correct wiring. Turn power back on and test the outlet.
Follow instructions precisely and use extreme caution when working with outlets yourself. If unsure, hire an electrician.
Preventing Electrical Fires
Along with fixing individual faulty outlets, take these steps to avoid electrical fire hazards:
- Don't overload outlets - Using high-wattage appliances on one outlet can lead to overheating.
- Check for loose plugs - These can disconnect slightly and create arcs and sparks.
- Keep outlets clear - Ensure there are no combustibles right next to outlets.
- Inspect regularly - Look for early warning signs like warm outlets or lights dimming periodically.
- Update old wiring - If your home wiring is very outdated, consider a full rewiring.
- Use surge protectors - They will shield appliances from power spikes that can damage outlets.
- Buy arc-fault circuit interrupters - These advanced circuit breakers shut off power when they detect dangerous electrical arcing.
Warning Signs of Electrical Fires
Here are some signs that may indicate electrical fires are already igniting inside walls:
- Wall outlets or switches feel hot
- Strong burning plastic smell from outlets
- Light fixtures flickering weakly then going dim or out completely
- Breakers tripping/fuses blowing repeatedly despite appliance load being normal
- Smoke coming from outlets or electric panels
- Discolored or warped outlets or switch plates
If you observe any of these, immediately shut off power and vacate the house. Call 911 to get the fire department to inspect.
When to Call an Electrician
While DIY outlet replacements are possible, more complex electrical issues require a licensed electrician:
- Upgrading home electrical service to support added appliances
- Installing new wiring circuits and service panels
- Rewiring old homes with outdated electrical systems
- Finding short circuits and overloads tripping breakers
- Handling aluminum wiring prone to overheating
- Diagnosing why arc-fault breakers keep tripping
Don't take risks with complicated electrical problems. Hire a trained professional.
Conclusion
Faulty outlets must be diligently fixed to keep your home safe. Learn to identify problematic outlets based on warning signs. Replace accessible outlets yourself but call an electrician for complex repairs. Take preventative measures like avoiding overloads, inspecting regularly, and installing AFCIs. Act promptly if you see any signs of possible electrical fires. Addressing outlet issues quickly provides powerful protection against electrical fires and shock hazards.