When do Electrical Outlets Need to be Replaced?
Homeowners depend on electrical outlets to power electrical devices and appliances. Electric outlets often remain the home’s most overlooked components despite their everyday usefulness. Most homeowners don’t think about them unless there is a problem. Electrical outlets can wear out due to regular use or advanced safety features, and changes in electrical codes can make them outdated. Damages, wiring issues, and overloading can also cause an outlet to deteriorate.
A damaged or outdated electrical outlet can pose a safety hazard and result in major inconvenience. Homeowners should look for these signs indicating that the outlets have outlived their useful service life and it is time to replace them.
The outlet does not work
An obvious sign to call an electrician to replace an electrical outlet is when it stops functioning and fails to power the electronics. Whether the problem is isolated or affecting multiple outlets, an expert can diagnose the problem and replace the non-working outlets.
A damaged or outdated electrical outlet can pose a safety hazard and result in major inconvenience.
The home has two-prong outlets
Outdated outlets are a common problem in older homes. Electrical outlets wear out with time and can result in loose connections, which impacts the outlet’s safety and functionality. The National Electrical Code mandates replacing the ungrounded old two-prong outlets with modern and grounded three-prong outlets. Two-prong outlets prevent homeowners from plugging in three-prong appliances and present a risk of an electrical fire, shock, electrocution, and permanent damage to the electronics.
The outlet is too hot to touch or has burnt marks
Loose, damaged, worn-out, or incorrectly installed electrical wires can make an outlet feel hot to the touch. A hot outlet is a sure sign of an underlying electrical problem behind the home’s walls and can potentially start an electrical fire. Please do not use the outlet before an electrician inspects it for replacement needs.
The plug falls out of the outlet
The small springs and contact points that hold the plug into the space undergo wear and tear with time and become loose and less secure. It can cause the plug to fall out when an appliance or device is connected. Loose plugs are more than an annoyance and can result in arcing or sparking. A plug falling out easily from the outlet indicates it is time to get new power outlets.
Cracked, chipped, loose, or discolored outlet
Another sign that the electrical outlets are due for replacement is when there are visible cracks, damages, burn marks, or discoloration. Noticing a spark, smoke, or a burning smell when plugging in an appliance is also a red flag that the outlet needs immediate professional assistance.
Flickering power
Devices flickering now and then indicates that the outlet fails to supply sufficient power. It can happen due to damaged, outdated, or worn-out outlets. A professional can inspect the outlet and electrical panel to determine if it needs replacement. A new outlet will prevent short-circuiting and protect personal belongings from damage.
Safeguard the electrical system
Replace the damaged or worn-out outlets to ensure the electrical system works. Homeowners can also consider upgrading old and outdated outlets to newer and more advanced ones. The latest advancement in outlet technology has made them safer and more convenient to operate. Contact a local electrician if your outlets need replacement.
If you need a fast, affordable electrician for your home or business, call RSB Electrical at 480-485-4284
