Electrical outlets can be found throughout your home, office or in any business structure. As our dependence on electronics grows, electrical outlets are ever-increasing in importance. However, they can get faulty over time and will need to be repaired and replaced.
Do you know if your electrical outlet is faulty? Identifying a defective electrical outlet will help you know if it needs to be repaired or replaced by a residential or commercial electrician. Let Blue Apple Electric break down everything you need to know about faulty electrical outlets.
Worn-Out Outlet
Electrical outlets are fixed devices with no moving parts. Inside of them, there are metal contact points for hot, neutral and ground connections. Over time, most outlets will begin to wear and loosen. When you put in a plug and it is loose or not secure, this is commonly a sign of an outlet that is wearing out. It will result in reduced contact and increased heat. If left unfixed, this could cause a fuse to blow or a breaker to trip.
Overloaded Circuits
Have you ever noticed how your lights dim when you have the microwave running while the vacuum cleaner is on? Certain appliances use up a lot of power, so you always want to make sure that an outlet is designed to handle the amperage of whatever is being plugged into it. Refer to your appliance manuals for exact wattages to prevent circuit overload.
Defective Equipment
Most outlet covers and the exteriors of the sockets themselves are made of plastic. This makes them pretty susceptible to breaking and cracking. Screws can become loose and other defects can occur that will make the outlet less effective—and in some cases, a significant electrical safety hazard. Any noticeable cracks or defects should spur the need to replace the outlet, or at least the covering.
If you are unsure about any of the electrical outlets in your home or business, it’s a good idea to consult a local electrician. In most case, any worn elements or defects will require professional repairs or replacements. If you have older, polarized outlets (with just two slits and no bottom hole), it may be time for an upgrade.
“Electrical outlets are so often overlooked.” said COO, David Schafer, of Blue Apple Electric. “Defective and outdated outlets are not only a safety concern, but can cause major damage to your appliances, TV’s and more.”