There are many tasks a handy homeowner can take care of on their own when repairs are needed. Electrical outlet repairs could fall into that DIY category, or it could be a more complex issue that requires an electrician’s expertise. Electrical systems in houses can be intricate, and of course, doing the wrong thing can be dangerous. There are a few ways to troubleshoot a non-working electrical outlet before you call in the pros.
Troubleshoot Before Making Electrical Outlet Repairs
Determining what the root cause of the issue is can be difficult when it comes to electrical outlets.
*Does your plug or appliance work? It’s always wise to make sure it’s not the item you want to plug in that’s failing you. Simply plug your item into another outlet to make sure it is working properly. If your item has a removable cord (like a cell phone), try another cord in its place.
*Is your outlet “half-hot?” There are certain types of outlets that work in conjunction with a controlled switch. These tend to have the upper outlet readily available for use at all times and the lower outlet connected to a switch. Most folks use these with lamps to turn them on and off easily when entering or leaving rooms. Plug your item in again and flip the nearby switch to determine if you have a half hot outlet.
*Is your outlet GFCI? Electrical outlets installed in kitchens and bathrooms are ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) and can shut off the flow of electricity when water is present. These outlets have a small rectangular button in the center that can be pushed to reset.
When to Call an Electrician for Repairs
Your electrical outlet issue could be at the breaker panel, the circuit could be overloaded, wires could be loose, the outlet could be faulty, or there could be a short circuit. If your outlet smells smokey or shows burn marks, if it is making a humming sound or if you’ve done all the troubleshooting and it’s still not working, it’s time to call an electrician. The electricians at CM Mose & Son have decades of experience and the proper equipment to uncover the actual cause of the outlet issue. Call CM Mose & Son for any and all electrical needs, big or small. There are some things just better left to the professionals.