You’re constantly plugging and unplugging lamps, small appliances, and other electronic devices. Despite their constant use, most people never give their electrical outlets a second thought. That doesn’t mean you should ignore the warning signs that something is going wrong. Here are four telltale signs that could indicate a faulty plug-in.
Burned or Overheating Outlets
Outlets that are repeatedly overloaded may spark or feel warm to the touch. You might even notice a burning smell or see smoke coming from them. In some cases, a plug-in will have black burn marks on the outlet cover. It is never safe to plug something into a receptacle that is blackened in such a manner. Wall sockets that are overheating present a serious fire hazard and should therefore be replaced at once.
Loose Sockets
Repeated wear and tear can cause the metal contact points on the inside of your outlet to become loose. When that happens, the socket will no longer be able to hold an electrical plug the way it once did. Accordingly, you may find yourself needing to jiggle cords or plug-ins to get them to work right. Once the contact points become worn to this point, your outlet is essentially no good and will therefore need to be replaced.
Outlet Keeps Tripping the Breaker
Having a breaker trip occasionally is probably no big deal. However, when a particular outlet seems to frequently trip its breaker, you could have a bigger problem on your hand. In many cases, breakers trip because there are too many items plugged in. But if you’ve ruled out an overloaded socket, the problem is likely due to a wiring issue that should be addressed by a licensed electrician.
No GFCI Outlets in Key Areas
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters or GFCI receptacles have been required in homes for decades, yet many homes in the Boise area still don’t have them. A GFCI outlet contains a sensor that monitors the flow of electricity and then shuts the circuit off if it detects a fluctuation in how the power is flowing. In particular, it can sense whenever water has come into contact with electricity. Any plug-in that’s within 6 feet of a plumbing source should be a GFCI outlet. So if your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room still has old-style sockets, it’s time for an upgrade.
Solving the Problem of Faulty Outlets in Boise, ID
Faulty outlets are frustrating, but Sublime Electric offers an easy solution. If you notice any of the above signs, please contact us right away, and one of our well-trained electricians will be happy to assist you.
