Reasons To Replace Electrical Outlets
Despite their importance in our daily lives, electrical outlets are often overlooked. Homeowners tend to only think about the outlets when they start malfunctioning. However, the best course of action is to catch a problem early on before it causes damage to the house.
Keep reading to learn why an outlet should be changed and how to spot the signs of a malfunctioning outlet.
Old homes
The National Electric Code (NEC) mandates installing grounded, three-prong outlets in all residences constructed after 1965. However, if a house was built before the mid-1960s, it could still have two-prong outlets that are not grounded. These can pose a fire, shock, or electrocution hazard and damage devices with sudden voltage spikes.
Hire an electrician to safely install modern three-prong and GFCI outlets and avoid this situation. GFCI outlets stop dangerous ground fault accidents by detecting a current drop and shutting off the circuit.
Plugs falling out
If a plug falls out of an outlet, the contacts inside the outlet are likely worn out. The outlet should be replaced since electrical arcing from an old outlet can cause severe damage to the home and start a fire. To ensure everyone’s safety, check the remainder of the outlets in the house to ensure they are in good working order. Then, change them out as needed.
An electrician can examine the interior wall section where the outlet lies to check for any signs of damage, deterioration, or wear. A dedicated professional can repair or replace damaged cables, installations, or drywall panels.
Burn marks or outlets hot to touch
Outlets that feel hot to the touch when in use and right after taking out a plug are clear indicators of an electrical problem as there may be loose, broken, or worn-out wires hidden behind the wall.
It’s also a significant fire risk that needs to be taken care of as soon as possible.
Discoloration of an outlet or the surrounding wall area indicates that the outlet may have been burned or damaged or was not installed properly. Outlet short circuits often leave burn marks and melt the plastics around them, posing a serious fire hazard of their own.
If you notice any of these problems happening to or around these outlets, you should stop using them immediately and hire an electrician to inspect and replace the damaged outlets.
Broken or cracked outlets
It’s hazardous to use a damaged outlet. Inserting the plug may cause an electric arc that could shock or electrocute someone. It may also harm the appliance.
It’s best to have the damaged outlet replaced by an electrician. They may recommend a complete electrical outlet overhaul throughout the house to keep the family and appliances safe.
Zimmerman Electric is here to serve your residential and commercial electrical needs throughout the Phoenix Valley metro area. Call us today if you need electrical work performed 602-497-3365.
