Dead Electrical Outlet?

Electrical Outlets

Electrical outlets, sometimes called receptacles, are in nearly every room we live in. They deliver the electricity that provides light at night. Outlets provide power for our computers and allow us charge our phones, and they keep the clocks on time so we can get to our jobs on-time. They’re so important to keeping us in sync with our daily routines that it becomes a major disaster when there is a power outage or electrical outlet problems. Here are 3 possible reasons why you may be experiencing problems at the electrical outlet.

Loose Contact Points

Electrical outlets do not have any moving parts. They do have points of contact made of metal. These metal contact points have grounded connections that become worn down and loosen over time, which causes loose contact points. This is can cause an increased resistance that can be dangerous. The increasing resistance generates heat which can lead to electrical wiring problems or blown fuses in the electrical panel. To prevent this from happening, replace power outlets when you first notice there is a problem.

Loose Wires

Loose wires at connection points can not only cause abnormal amounts of heat generation, but they also cause sparking and arcing. Arcing creates a fire danger and can often be identified burn marks in terminals. To be sure that your home is safe from these electrical issues you can call Mister Sparky for a home electric inspection.

Low Quality Power Outlets

Installing low quality power outlets is never a good idea, as the life of power outlets relies heavily on the quality. To be safe, invest in professional grade outlets. These outlets are built to endure heavy usage and a heavy duty contact area makes them more reliable.