Common Electrical Outlet Issues: How To Address Them Safely - WCI Electric

Loose Outlets: If you have a loose outlet, the first step is to turn off the power to that outlet’s circuit at the circuit breaker. Once the power is off, carefully remove the outlet cover plate and inspect the outlet. Tighten any loose screws on the outlet and within the electrical box. If the outlet itself is loose within the box, you might need to remove it and use shims or spacers to secure it firmly in place.

Overloaded Circuits: To address an overloaded circuit, you’ll need to reduce the number of devices connected to it. Unplug some devices and spread the load across multiple outlets or circuits. If you frequently experience overloads, consider installing additional outlets or upgrading your electrical panel to accommodate your needs.

Faulty GFCI Outlets: If a GFCI outlet keeps tripping, press the “Reset” button on the outlet to see if it resets. If it doesn’t hold, press the “Test” button, and then press “Reset” again. If it still doesn’t reset, there might be a ground fault or a wiring issue. In such cases, it’s best to call a professional electrician to diagnose and repair the problem.

Worn-out Outlets: If you notice cracks or discoloration on an outlet, it’s a sign of wear. Turn off the circuit breaker for that outlet, remove the cover plate, and then carefully remove the outlet from the electrical box. Replace the old outlet with a new one of the same type. Make sure to connect the wires to the new outlet in the same configuration as the old one, using proper wire connections.

Reverse Polarity: Correcting reverse polarity involves switching the hot and neutral wires on the outlet. However, this requires careful attention to detail and electrical knowledge. If you’re uncertain, it’s best to hire a professional electrician to correct this issue to ensure the wiring is done correctly.