Have you ever plugged a device into an outlet, and had it fail to work? Or did you have a hard time getting the plug to stay in the outlet? When these issues occur, it can be easy just to try another outlet. But what you should be wondering is if there is something wrong with your outlet, and could it be a fire hazard in your home?
Signs Of Trouble With An Electrical Outlet
If you have noticed any of the following signs, it is time to call (703) 463-9866 to schedule a professional electrical evaluation for your home:
- Scorch Marks- If you can see any discoloration or areas that are melted or deformed on an outlet, then it is not functioning correctly. These marks are all indications of excessive heat that could result in an electrical fire.
- Cracked Faceplates- An outlet faceplate is designed to cover the wiring for safety. But it is also needed to keep dust and debris from the wiring. A cracked faceplate is not doing either of these jobs and needs to be replaced.
- Plugs Don’t Stay In- If you are having trouble getting a plug to stay in an outlet, it is worn out and should be replaced. You might think that it is sufficient just to stop using the outlet. But remember that if an outlet is worn out, it is a good indication that other components of your electrical system are also wearing out and pose a risk to your safety.
- The Smell Of Smoke- You should never smell smoke coming from an outlet. This indicates that there are sparks and a tiny fire inside the outlet that could grow into a full electrical fire.
- The Outlet Is Hot- Your outlets should never feel hot to the touch. This heat is an indication that the circuit or outlet is overloaded, and the potential for an electrical fire is significantly increased.
While all of these signs might appear to be insignificant, remember that they are all indications of something that is potentially very serious. Call in a professional electrician to evaluate the outlet and your entire electrical system to avoid what could turn into a life-threatening electrical fire in your home.
How Can I Determine If An Outlet Is Working?
The safest way to determine if an outlet is working is to plug in an electrical item to see if it works. This test can easily be down with a hairdryer or lamp. If the first item you plug in does not work, always try another item just to be sure that the issue is in the outlet and not the item you selected to test it.
What To Do When An Outlet Stops Working
Unless you are experienced working with electricity, it is never a good idea to attempt to repair an outlet yourself. One wrong move can result in damage to your electrical system and a life-threatening electrical shock. Instead, call (703) 463-9866, and let the pros take care of the problem for you. Damaged outlets are often just the beginning of your electrical problems. But the only way to know that your home is safe from these hazards is to call in a professional to evaluate your entire electrical system.
But rest assured that when you call in the professionals from Circuit Doctor, we will locate the problem and determine what has caused it so that we can ensure you that your home is safe. All of our licensed electricians have years of experience troubleshooting all types of electrical issues and determining the best and most cost-effective solutions to these problems.
We offer no-obligation price quotes before making any repairs. And all of our work is backed by our complete warranty. As any of our thousands of happy customers will tell you, we stand behind our work with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. We never consider a job complete until you tell us that you are happy with every aspect of our work. Call us today at (703) 463-9866 and let us help you with that annoying outlet that just never seems to work right.
