Quick fixes for broken outlets

Jun 09, 2014

Each time you plug something into an outlet in your home the expectation is it will work. But today that might not be the case.

Outlets fail for all types of reasons, some of which may be fixed by a simple push of a button. But before you pick up your phone to call the experts save yourself some time by checking out a few of the most common occurrences with electrical outlets.

GFCI “Tripped”

GFCIs (ground fault circuit interpreters) are designed to keep you safe from electrocution on outlets and plugs that could potentially come into contact with water. If you find the plugs in your home, garage, patio or basement are not working it may be possible your GFCI receptacle was “tripped”.

Often homes have more than one GFCI receptacle that protect a number of plugs in an area. It is not unusual for a single circuit to trip which causes one outlet to stop working.

Locate the faulty outlet to make sure the reset button is pressed in. Proceed by pushing the test button which will make a loud ‘clicking’ noise that should reset the plugs. If the reset doesn’t fix the outlet, it’s time to call in the experts.

Burnt Out Outlets

It’s also possible for an outlet to burn out. If your outlet is black or discolored around the edges it could be caused by a short lived fire. The outlet should not be used if this has occurred and it needs to be replaced immediately to prevent further fire hazards.

Older Homes

Outlets in older homes could have failed due to old age. We recommend contacting an electrician for repairs as electric work can be dangerous.

For all electrical issues, when it doubt call our expert contractors.

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