DIY (do-it-yourself) home improvement projects can be so satisfying. After all, with many resources available to us for free, such as instructional online videos and library books, it’s easier than ever to educate yourself on repair and maintenance protocol, so you can upgrade or fix your house. However, some problems, like electrical outlet repair, are tricky to get right. Your home’s electrical and wiring systems are complex and potentially dangerous. If you want to try your hand at home outlet repair, here’s what you need to know before getting started… and how to know when it’s time to hire a licensed electrical service professional.
Before you get started, you should do a few preliminary investigative tasks. First, check if the outlet is a GFCI outlet. GFCI stands for “ground fault circuit interrupter,” and these outlets are much safer than vintage options. If your home is relatively modern, or has had the electrical updated recently, you likely have GFCI outlets.
Once you have established the outlet is GFCI, hit the “reset” button. This often solves the problem, but if your outlet is still not working, check the circuit breaker. Flip the switch for the circuit in question all the way to the “off” position and then back to “on.” Any luck? If not, you will need to take the faceplate off the outlet. Inspect the wires and ensure that they are actually connected to the outlet in the proper configuration. Before doing that, read the following safety tips.
Although some homeowners choose to call an electrician at this point, you may want to inspect and work on the wiring yourself. If so, there are three major considerations to keep in mind. Here’s what the pros know about outlet repair.
Some problems should just be left for the professionals. If you feel unsafe or unsure in any way during the repair process, stop what you are doing and contact a professional (and don’t attempt to use the outlet in the meantime).
Even if you feel confident in your skills, halt work if the outlet starts sparking. Similarly, if you receive an electrical shock, stop what you are doing. This is a sign of unstable wiring, and it should be addressed with caution and safety protocol. If this occurs, be sure that all appliances or lights are unplugged from the outlet in question, and do not attempt further work.
Electrical outlet repair can be straightforward and satisfying to do. Your chances of a successful fix increase greatly when you feel prepared and ready to tackle the job. Work slowly without distractions, and always keep the safety of yourself and your family first in mind. Finally, don’t hesitate to call a professional at any point in the process. Your outlets will be back in business soon, and so will you.
Contact Blanton’s Air at (910) 822-2866 for all your Fayetteville or Raleigh, NC HVAC and plumbing needs.
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We make the process easy in multiple ways but you can always expect the same, easy way when you work with us:
We don't schedule in those 4 hour windows - you won’t have to wait around for us.
We call you and give you updates. We provide a 30 minute heads up phone call.
When you book, you get a welcome email that shows your technician's photo and some of their recent customer reviews.
When your tech is dispatched, we provide a link where you can track them en route.
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