Outlet Replacement: Signs you need to Upgrade
While one of the most utilized components in your entire household, electrical switches & outlets are often overlooked until they stop working. Over time outlets degrade which can put your family in a harmful situation if not addressed by a licensed & certified electrician right away. EP Electric LLC has highlighted several signs to look out for which will indicate it’s time for an outlet replacement and upgrade service. If you’ve detected any of these issues occurring with your electrical outlets, call a professional general electrician right away for a replacement & safety inspection.
7 Telltale Signs you’re ready for an Outlet Replacement
No Power: The most obvious sign it is time for an outlet replacement is when it is no longer powering your devices. Before scheduling an appointment make sure the other outlets in the room are working and check the breaker box to see if it was tripped.
Burn Marks: If you discover burn marks on your outlets or smell electrical burning unplug all electronics and refrain from using these outlets. Call an electrician for an emergency outlet replacement service as soon as possible.
Plugs Easily Fall Out: Not an indication of a serious or dangerous electric problem, but when plugs easily fall out of the outlet it means they are very old and should be updated sooner rather than later.
Hot to the Touch: An outlet that is hot to the touch indicates the wiring was not installed correctly. This should be addressed right away as it has the potential to cause an electrical fire.
Flickering Power: Damaged or outdated outlets will flicker, because they cannot keep up with the electrical output. This flickering can damage your personal electronics and should be addressed.
Cracked or Chipped Faceplate: While it may seem like a cosmetic issue, not a cause for an outlet replacement, these blemishes allow dust to build up inside. The debris buildup could be an accelerant if a spark occurs within the outlet.
Outlets are not Grounded: Older homes built before 1965 may still be using 2-prong outlets that are not grounded. Outlets that are not grounded are known to cause electrical fires, shock and unexpected power surges which damage electronic devices & appliances. These types of outlets should be replaced immediately with safer, more modern 3-prong GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets.
GFCI Outlet Installation
It is important for the safety of your home and family to address problems with your electrical outlets right away. Detecting the issues above and hiring a professional residential electrician for an outlet replacement, upgrade and installation ensures no damage occurs to your home, appliances or electrical devices. Call EP Electric LLC right away at 215-433-5004 for emergency electrician services, GFCI outlet installation or replacement in the Greater Philadelphia area.
