The experts from TriStar Electric are here to talk to you about how you can troubleshoot and deal with a dead outlet.
Are you tired of fighting with an outlet that can’t seem to work properly? We know just how frustrating this can be, especially if you’ve got a lot of different devices plugged into the walls. Today, the experts from TriStar Electric are here to talk to you about how you can troubleshoot and deal with a dead outlet, and when it’s time to call in the professionals. Read on to learn more about dead outlets in your home and what to do about them!
The Basics of Troubleshooting Dead Outlets
Just like any good troubleshooting or simple diagnosis session, we will start with the quick and easy stuff. First, we will want to make sure there aren’t any pressing or dangerous concerns, which is easy enough to see if you know what you are looking for:
- Is the outlet discolored, burned, or melted?
- Are other appliances nearby working correctly?
- Is the outlet sparking when you plug things in?
- Are there any odd odors in the room?
If you answered yes to any of these, then you should shut off the circuit immediately if it’s safe to do so and then call an electrician from TriStar Electric. Not only is the outlet dead, it can stand to kill a whole lot more of your property’s electrical devices, and can even cause an electrical fire if it isn’t taken care of.
Find Out If It Is Really the Outlet
You most certainly don’t want to call in an electrician and shell out for a service if the issue wasn’t even the outlet in the first place. Before you do any actual sleuthing, you will want to check for these things:
- Try plugging into one other appliance. Drag over a lamp and another small device that you’re certain is in working order and plug it into the affronting outlet. If the appliance works, then the fault is not with the outlet, but with the appliance you were trying to use.
- Check your breaker panel. In many cases, when a breaker trips, it will shut off the outlets on the circuit, typically cutting off lights and other active outlets in your room or section of the property. However, if the outlet you are trying to use is dedicated, as would be the case with a microwave, oven outlet, or fridge, then it’s on its own breaker. Check to see if that has been tripped, and if it has, reset it.
Check the Home GFCIs
GFCI outlets are used in areas where the outlet may be exposed to moisture. This means bathrooms, kitchens, utility areas, and outdoors. These outlets can kick themselves off if an issue occurs, and when they do shut down, the entire circuit they’re associated with. Check these to see if they’ve tripped.
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.