We use outlets at home daily, but do we ever consider their condition? An outlet is our direct connection to electricity, which powers up our appliances and gadgets at home. While we often use and neglect them at the same time, little do we know they’re already loose and faulty. 

What could these faulty outlets bring? 

As you already know, bad or loose outlets can pose a danger. They can risk our homes from fire caused by the escape of electric current. Here are the following reasons why outlets can cause fires. 

1. Incorrect wiring. When we install outlets, the wirings should be secure and appropriately placed. Wires should also not show any nicks and scratches to ensure efficient functioning. 

However, installation problems can happen, risking our outlets of possible defects. An outlet incorrectly wired can overheat. If you can touch or check your outlets at home, you want to wish they’re cold; outlets that are unusually hot to the touch are definitely problematic. 

Solution: Rewire your outlets, ensuring you place them correctly and securely in their places. 

2. Overloading. Do you sometimes plug too many devices into one outlet? It is what you call overloading. Overcrowding an outlet is a big no! If you do so, you will notice your outlet becoming hotter to the touch. You overload the circuit, allowing more current to flow than it can handle. 

Overloading outlets can also pose risks to plugged appliances. As the outlet overheats, it can radiate to the plugged wires and melt insulations. Insulations protect against electrical leakage. If the insulation melts, it increases the risk of electric shocks and fires. 

Solution: Consider adding more outlets to accommodate more devices. Never use too many extension cords, as they can also pose risks of fires. 

3. Old and outdated. When outlets are old and outdated, they become loose. Loose outlets can affect wiring, causing more problems in the long run. If an outlet becomes loose, it can expose wires, which should not be near any human contact. These live wires can cause electrical shocks and even fires when exposed. 

Solution: Replace and update outlets from time to time when they show signs of aging and defects such as cracks, corrosion, and scorch marks. 

All You Need to Know About Fixing A Loose Outlet 

Loose outlets need immediate attention. If you discover that the placement of your outlets at home is no longer secure, you want to take steps to address and fix it. Fixing a loose outlet should be easy following the steps below. 

• Shut off power. Before any electrical task, shut off the power. It is one important safety precaution before you can work on your outlets. Locate the circuit breaker specific to that room to cut off power to the outlet. 

• Test your outlet. Bring out your tester to confirm the power is off. Insert the probes into the intended slots, and if the scales tell you the power is off, you are alright to proceed and remove your outlet. 

• Remove the outlet. To remove the outlet, unscrew the cover plate. Remove the screws securing the box until the outlet is loose and hangs free. You should be able to see exposed wires to confirm you’ve successfully removed your outlet. 

• Use outlet shims. Outlet shims are used to correct outlet gaps. Place the shims onto the screws. Depending on how far back your outlet is, you can add as many shims to correct the gaps. 

• Reinstall the outlet and test. Reinstall the outlet by placing the cover and tightening the screws. If you’re unsatisfied and think the outlet is still not tight enough, you can take out more shims to fill the gaps. 

Outlet Repair and Installation Safety Precautions 

With any electrical task, whether installing or repairing an outlet, one always needs to follow safety precautions. If you’re about to install or repair an outlet in your home, make sure to consider the following: 

• Always shut off the power. Before proceeding with any electrical task, always make sure that you cut off the power. If you are to work with an outlet, check the panel and switch off the power specific to the outlet you’re about to fix. To ensure that the power is totally off, use a tester. 

• Prepare the needed tools at hand. What do you need for an outlet repair? Do you have them readily available? If not, you want to list them down for purchase. During the repair or installation, you always want to keep them close at hand for easy access. 

• Wear safe and comfortable clothing. When working with electricity, you want to wear something safe and comfortable. If you’re fond of accessories, you must remove them, especially ones you wear on your hands, like bracelets, bangles, and rings. 
• Consider installing safety covers for outlets. For added safety, you might want to secure covers for your outlets. Especially if you have kids, it will give you peace of mind, knowing your outlets have protective covers, safe from any human contact when not in use. 

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