Why do the Plugs Keep Falling Out Of the Outlet?

Why Do the Plugs Keep Falling Out of the Outlet?

When you plug something into a wall outlet, you expect it to stay secure and start working. If your plugs fall out of your home’s electrical outlets, this is a sign of a potential problem. Not only are loose outlets frustrating, but they can also be a clue that there is an issue with your home’s electrical system. Homeowners should contact a skilled professional electrician in Scarborough, Handyman Connection, to solve any outlet problems and get back to having functioning electrical service throughout their homes.

Causes of a Loose Outlet

First, determine if the problem is with one particular plug or the outlet. If you can plug other items into the outlet, you may just have an item with a broken plug. If everything you plug into the outlet falls out, there may be damage to the outlet.

Loose outlets may become a problem over time if the contact points start to wear down. The contact points in the outlet’s receptacle may wear out and then won’t be able to grip the prongs of a standard plug. Loose outlets may also be due to faulty wiring or other electrical problems.

Potential Hazards

While it may not seem like a potential hazard, loose electrical outlets may be a safety issue. A loose outlet may cause problems with the flow of your electrical service in your home. It may also lead to electrical arcing. Arcing is when the electricity jumps from one connected area to another. When your electricity arcs, it can cause a spark and a sudden burst of high temperatures, which could lead to an electrical fire.

When this type of fire starts, it is inside of the walls, so it may not be as obvious at first until it’s out of control. Loose outlets may also mean loose electrical wires, which are also capable of catching on fire at any point and leading to catastrophic damage to your home.

Professional Repair Solutions

If you suspect your outlets are loose, it may seem like a simple fix, but with electrical work, it’s always better to hire a pro. Electrical repair services are best left to pros who are licensed and experienced.

The most common fix for a loose outlet is to replace the entire receptacle and outlet. An electrician may check out the problem and decide to remove the old outlet and swap it out with a new one. First, your electrician will turn off the power to your home or to the specific circuit breaker that the outlet is part of. The outlet may be tested to determine the problem and then removed and replaced.

Problems With DIY Fixes

Homeowners sometimes attempt to fix a loose outlet with various DIY solutions. Some of these DIY fixes end up being more hazardous than the original problem. Instead of getting the outlet replaced, some homeowners attempt to keep the plug in place with duct tape or some other device that attaches to the wall. This can be a potential fire hazard.

There can also be serious problems if someone attempts to replace the outlets and makes a mistake. A homeowner who does a faulty electrical repair job could be setting up their home for serious problems and expensive repair bills.

Electrician in Scarborough for Fixing Outlets

The safest and most economical solution for loose outlets is to contact an electrician for help. At Handyman Connection, our contractors can quickly repair and replace loose outlets and diagnose any other electrical issues you are having.

Turn to Handyman Connection for all of your electrical service needs in Scarborough and the surrounding areas. If your home is older and in need of an electrical update, contact us for an estimate.

*All electrical work is subcontracted to ECRA/ESA Licensed Electrical Contractors