Electrical outlets are useful but prone to damage if not treated well.
Without the electrical outlets located throughout your home, you wouldn’t be able to plug anything in. Think about all of the kitchen appliances, coffee makers, smart home assistants, and desk lamps that will be left sad, dark, and lonely! Here is a look at some of the reasons why your electrical outlet isn’t working anymore.
Focus on Safety
As always, put safety first! Although safety tips are typically born out of common sense, you’d be shocked to learn how many people tend to ignore it. For instance, avoid overloading your electrical outlet. Using power strips seems simple enough, but you still have to be careful. Power strips should be plugged into the wall, and not each other. Even using extension cords can be risky – in some cases, you are quite literally playing with fire! Don’t insert anything into an electrical socket other than a plug that has been rated for it. Likewise, only use selected “baby-proof” devices. Cover up all electrical plates and make sure that the wiring is all hidden inside. Exposed wiring can be extremely hazardous.
How to Approach Quick Troubleshooting
Now that we have covered basic safety tips, let’s move on. Get your hands on an electrical tester device. Although they sound hard to find, you can acquire them at your local hardware store, so if there is one around the corner from you, then you are in luck! Let’s say that you don’t feel like spending the money, and that’s entirely understandable. We have prepared a few quick troubleshooting tips for you to follow as well:
- Verify that the electrical outlet is the source of the problem – it could simply be the device’s fault.
- Play around with other devices, outlets, and lights in your home, even if you just use a nightlight to test them.
- Flip the applicable breakers to the off position, wait ten seconds, and then turn them back on. There might be a wiring or outlet problem, in which case you’ll need to reach out to the team here at TriStar Electric as soon as possible!
For ALL of Your Residential or Commercial Electrical Needs, Call TriStar Electric!
No matter the job, big or small, the professionals at TriStar Electric will be happy to discuss your project and answer any questions or concerns you may have. We offer free in-home consultations, plus an after-hours and emergency phone line for advice or service!
If you have any questions about our electrical repairs or upgrades, please contact TriStar Electric, Maryland’s premier residential and commercial electrician, by calling 410-799-5791 or 301-384-8880. Or, you can fill out the contact form on our website.
Are you looking for a quality electrician in Maryland, Washington DC, Southern Pennsylvania, or Northern Virginia? Take a look at TriStar Electric’s online reviews and ratings on Angie’s List, Yelp, Google, Facebook, Better Business Bureau of Greater Maryland, and Better Business Bureau Greater Mid-Atlantic. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and YouTube!