When you plug in a device, nothing is more frustrating than turning it on to find that it does not work. It may be the device or the outlet. Try plugging in a different device or appliance before you start troubleshooting the outlet. Either the cord or the device may be the problem. However, if the device works in another outlet, the outlet is the likely culprit. If you have an outlet that is not working, there may be several potential reasons. Although many reasons are minor, some are more serious and require the help of a professional. Keep reading to learn the top reasons why outlets stop working and what to do about each issue.
Top Causes that Stop Outlets from Working
Tripped Breaker
This is one of the most common issues. Fortunately, it is usually easy to fix. Each circuit in your home has a breaker that flips off when the circuit is overloaded. For example, it may trip if you have several high-powered appliances connected to one circuit. Check the electrical panel to see if a breaker switch is flipped. Turn it off and then on. If the breaker keeps tripping, you may have an outdated panel or a more serious issue. Contact an electrician if the problem continues.
Blown Fuse
Some older homes have fuse-based electrical panels instead of modern circuit breakers. Outlets can stop working because of blown fuses. If too much power goes through a fuse box, a fuse can blow. Unplug any devices in the affected outlet before you try to replace a blown fuse. Be sure to use the right size of fuse to minimize serious safety risks. If you are unsure, call an electrician.
Damaged Wiring or Outlet
Impact, corrosion, and other problems can cause damage to outlets. Also, wires can deteriorate over time and reduce connectivity. Call an electrician to inspect and fix any damaged outlets or wires.
GFCI Button Is Popped Out
Ground fault circuit interrupters have reset and test buttons on them. When they detect a fault, they automatically shut off. If you have this type of outlet, try pushing the reset button. Contact an electrician if the problem persists.
Loose Wiring
Wires can loosen from wear and other issues over time. If you have loose wiring, it is a dangerous problem that should be addressed promptly by an electrician. Loose wires can cause electrical fires.
Worn Outlet
Internal outlet components become worn over time and interrupt the flow of electricity. If you notice that an outlet feels loose, it is important to have an electrician replace it. Worn outlets pose fire risks.
Electrical Panel Issue
Electrical panels are not usually the culprits. However, some issues can disturb power distribution to circuits. An electrician can inspect your panel to see if it needs to be replaced. Older panels are often insufficient to handle modern power demands.
Pest or Rodent Damage
Rodents and some other types of pests can chew electrical wiring. The result may be an outlet that stops working suddenly. Basements, attics, and low-traffic areas of homes are common places for this type of problem. If you notice signs of pests, call a pest control professional to handle the infestation. Call an electrician to inspect and fix any wiring issues.
Overloading
If you have a lot of devices plugged into an outlet, it can cause the circuit to overload. In addition to making the outlet stop working, overloading can create a fire hazard. Although power strips may help reduce the risk of an overload, they can be more harmful than good if you use them improperly. Consult with an electrician if an outlet stops working because of overloading. It is usually better to add more outlets than to use extension cords and multiple power strips as permanent electricity distribution solutions.
Fix Your Broken Electrical Outlet in Lakeland
The good news is that qualified electricians can fix many non-working outlets. In many cases, the problem is minor enough that it is quick to solve. Since electricity is dangerous, it is always wise to let an electrician handle any significant work with outlets, wiring, or electrical panels. If the cause is not a simple issue, the team at Mister Sparky is here to help. Our electricians have helped many Lakeland homeowners diagnose and fix their non-working outlet problems. We prioritize efficiency and safety when we provide service. Please contact us to learn more about how to fix a broken electrical outlet in Lakeland, Florida.