Broken outlets are more than just an annoyance. Electricity is a powerful source of energy that can become dangerous when wiring breaks or gets exposed. Electrical shocks, fires and other hazards can occur once an outlet is broken. Fortunately, prompt repairs can quickly restore your property’s safety.
Knowing how to spot damaged electrical outlets and what to do until an electrician arrives can help you protect your property and family from harm. Here, you can discover exactly what types of damage you need to take seriously, along with what you can expect when our technician arrives to perform an inspection and make repairs.
Key Takeaways
•Broken outlets can cause fires, shocks and damage to appliances.
•A broken outlet may display outward signs of damage, such as cracks in the faceplate.
•Faulty wiring might also cause less visible issues, such as a lack of power.
•Cutting power off to the damaged outlets is the first step to take to mitigate safety risks.
•Calling a professional electrician is the safest way to fix a damaged outlet.
What is a Broken Outlet?
A broken outlet involves any type of damage to the electrical receptacle. You might see a cracked faceplate, exposed wiring or other signs of physical damage.
You’ll also want to note that the outlet’s appearance can sometimes be deceiving. Damage to the outlet can occur internally. When this happens, the outlet may lack power. Sparks and arcing are other issues that could occur without warning.
Watch for These Common Signs Your Outlet Is Broken
Staying alert for these signs of outlet damage helps you take action before it leads to complications.
•No power or flickering lights
•Sparks when plugging in appliances
•Discolorations or burn marks
•Buzzing sounds or a burning smell
•Loose plugs or an outlet that is warm to the touch
Bonus: Try These Quick Tests
If you notice outlet issues, then you might be able to use these tests to confirm a problem.
•Use an outlet tester to check for power
•Swap out appliances to make sure it’s an outlet issue
Know The Six Serious Hazards of a Broken Outlet
You’ll want to avoid the temptation to simply use another outlet and leave the problem one alone. Taking a look at the potential hazards broken outlets create can serve as motivation to quickly call one of our electricians for help.
1. Major Electrical Shocks
Using a wall socket with faulty wiring can lead to serious electrical shocks, especially for kids, pets and DIYers who might not know how to protect themselves.
2. Fire Hazards
According to the National Fire Protection Association, one in five house fires are associated with failures in the electrical system. Arcing, overheating and melting wires should all be considered electrical emergencies.
3. Appliance Damage
Power surges and or fluctuations in the voltage levels of an outlet can quickly kill sensitive electronics.
4. Code Violations
Home inspectors examine electric outlets for signs of damage that could cause your property to fail an inspection or void your homeowners’ insurance.
5. Hidden Wiring Issues
A non-functioning outlet could signal that there are bigger issues with the power point behind the wall, such as broken electrical wiring.
6. Increased Energy Waste
Loose or shorting out connections can lead to a phantom load and higher utility bills.
Take These Steps When You Suspect a Broken Outlet
Initiating these steps at the very first sign of an outlet failure can prevent serious injuries and house fires.
•Shut off the circuit
•Avoid plugging anything into the outlet
•Mark the outlet as out-of-order or tape it off
If you happen to be handy, then you can use a non-contact voltage tester to assess the outlet’s power.
However, the average homeowner may lack the skills to test an outlet’s safety or perform DIY repairs. Call one of our licensed electricians as soon as you’ve taken the first steps to ensure everyone’s safety.
Can You Fix a Broken Outlet Yourself?
Most people can safely tighten the screws on an outlet provided that you can avoid touching the screwdriver and metal components to hot wires. You can also replace the faceplate with minimal risk, even as a beginner DIYer.
Trying to do a full replacement without experience is never a good idea. Our professional electricians know how to identify the causes of an electrical receptacle issue. Plus, we an often repair or replace broken outlets faster than the average DIYer.
If the issue is a code or safety concern, then only professionals should handle the broken outlet. Knowing that your property’s electrical system can pass an inspection gives you peace of mind.
Prevent Outlet Damage From Occurring In the First Place
Once you’ve fixed your broken outlet, you can take these additional precautions to keep it in top condition.
•Choose tamper-resistant outlets
•Avoid overloading the outlet with too many appliances
•Check outlets every six months for signs of damage
•Replace cheap surge protectors and extension cords
•Upgrade to GFCI or AFCI outlets when necessary
Assessing a Cracked Vs. Broken Outlet: How to Tell the Difference
The easiest way to know how seriously an outlet is damaged is to look at the outer surface. A cracked faceplate that doesn’t extend to the interior parts is usually a simple repair. However, you might see internal damage that indicates a more serious problem.
A receptacle that is loose or moved out of its place might have damaged wiring. You’ll also want to be concerned about any sparks, popping noises or a lack of power. These are signs of internal damage that needs professional repairs.
FAQs
Our electricians often hear these common questions, and learning the answers can help you start fixing a broken outlet right away.
Can a broken outlet cause a fire?
Unfortunately, broken electrical receptacles are common causes of fires.
How much does it cost to fix a broken outlet?
A faceplate replacement may cost a couple of dollars. The cost to repair internal damage or replace an outlet is difficult to estimate until we inspect your property.
What happens if you ignore a broken outlet?
At best, you’ll lack the ability to use the outlet. But, ignoring an outlet can lead to electrical shocks, sparks and arcing that place your health and property at risk.
Can I cover a cracked outlet with tape?
Using tape to mark an outlet as unsafe is an option, but you’ll want to note that it doesn’t offer any protection from harm. Shutting off power to the outlet is the best route to take until you can schedule a repair.
Is a broken outlet dangerous if nothing’s plugged in?
Yes, it is still dangerous due to the power that could still be flowing through the wiring.
Determining When to Replace, Repair or Upgrade Your Outlets
Sometimes, a broken outlet is simply the spark you need to upgrade outdated outlets. You might be ready to upgrade a two-prong outlet to a three-prong one.
Replacing an old outlet with one that has a GFCI can improve safety around your home. Upgrading your home’s electrical system could also help you stop constant breaker trips that disrupt your day. Smart outlets are a modern upgrade option that many people find makes dealing with a broken outlet an opportunity to improve their homes.
Reach Out to Our Team for Prompt Outlet Repairs
Don’t ignore a broken outlet, and never put up with any malarky when it comes to powering your home. Instead of just taping the broken outlet up and walking away, reach out for a professional inspection.
Pompano’s on-time electrician can help you determine if the outlet is eligible for repairs or needs a replacement. Our crew offers outlet installation and repair services to Pompano, FL, residents and the surrounding communities to help everyone stay safe as they use their favorite appliances. Contact us today!