Having loose outlets in the house is way too annoying. You cannot plug in stuff properly, and even if you manage to plugin successfully, unplugging is another challenge in itself. A loose outlet is not very good for the plates as they cause them to break. In worse cases, loose outlets can cause a safety threat. So, it is crucial to fix all the outlets of your home, because safety always comes first. In case you want to get your outlet fixed, you can always call for professional help. For this Mr. Switch Electrical services are available 24/7.
However, if you want to fix the loose outlet all by yourself, then in this article, we have explained everything that you need to know. Fixing an outlet can take a mere 5 minutes, or it can take up to 30 minutes as well. But the good news is you need minimum tools and, in most cases, you can fix it with anything sharp like a knife.
How to Know If an Outlet Is Loose
To tell if an outlet is loose is not any rocket science. You might already know which outlets are giving you a problem and they usually are the old ones. But the people tend to forget about those outlets that are hidden behind any furniture or curtain. And if one outlet in your home or business is loose, there is a high probability that you have more loose outlets too. So, when you are on a quest for finding the loose outlets, look out for:
- Loose faceplates
- Loose outlets and wires
- Scorch marks
- Frayed wires
- Burns
Tightening loose outlets should not be a problem, but in case you find a burnt wire, scorch marks, and other complicated stuff, just leave it there and call an expert. You can always get Mr. Switch Electrical services that are available all day every day of the week.
How to Tighten a Loose Electrical Outlet?
Take Necessary Precautions
Whenever you are trying to fix anything related to electricity and wiring, make sure that the power is turned off. So, in this case, when you are going to fix your loose outlet, don’t forget to cut off the power supply to that outlet. Because fixing a loose outlet means that the panel of the outlet will come off the wall with all the wire exposed. So, it is wise to switch off the power.
As far as the tools are concerned, you at least require a flat-bladed screwdriver to screw and unscrew the outlet. However, you can need more tools because, at the back of the outlet, things can be a bit tricky.
Tighten Outlet
Now let’s start tightening the outlet. Get a hold of a flathead screwdriver and remove the faceplate with it. Now you will find some screws that are keeping the outlet intact with the wall. Mostly you are going to find the screw at all the four corners. After locating all of the screws, start tightening them with a screwdriver by turning the screws clockwise.
Tighten Wires
If you want to tighten the wires, then in addition to the faceplate, you would also require to remove the outlet from the wall box. Then adjust the cables as you desire, make sure they are nice and tight, and then place the outlet back in the wall box. Tighten the screws by rotating them clockwise, and after that, place the faceplate back on its position and tighten its screws as well. Now you have a correctly fitted electrical outlet that is safe and secure for operation.
Why Plugs Keep on Falling Out of The Electrical Outlet?
The main reason why plugs do not stick perfectly and keep on coming out of the electrical outlet is the receptacle of the outlet. Now, if you don’t know what a receptacle is, it is the opening of the outlet in which you plug in the electrical appliances or devices. What happens is that as time passes, the receptacles start to get loose, which is why their ability to hold a plug wears out. And loose receptacles can cause sparks and are capable of even starting a fire.
So, if you are facing a problem with the receptacle of the outlet, the best solution is to replace it. But replacing is not as simple as it sounds. You need to keep the electrical wiring in mind while replacing it, which requires a bit of knowledge. So, it is wiser to call for a professional who will replace the electrical outlet without any mistake. Because simple electrical fixes, if not done right, can cause massive damages. Sometimes it’s easiest to contact your local electrician inner west sydney or whatever the suburb you live in.