Signs That It's Time to Think About Replacing Electrical Outlets

When to Plan for Outlet Replacement 

Keeping up with everything in the home is a big job. Luckily, many of the components of the crucial systems in the home are very long-lasting. Unluckily, since components last a long time, it can be difficult for homeowners to know when they need to be updated or replaced. Electrical outlets are the perfect example of this problem. On average, most electrical outlets will stay in service in a home for over 20 years. 

Over this period, they can develop problems that can make them useless for powering devices and, at worst, hazardous. Knowing when to replace electrical outlets can be confusing, but there are some hard and fast signs that it is time. Here are the biggest signs that electrical outlet replacement is needed. 

Damage to the Faceplate 

The faceplate of an electrical outlet is the plastic cover that slides over the receptacles and serves as trim for the outlet assembly. They are generally secured in place by a single screw in the middle of the faceplate. The faceplate offers aesthetic value and keeps people from accessing the hot wires that power the outlet. 

Since faceplates don’t sit completely flush with the wall, they can be subject to breaking. Certain types of plastic used to manufacture faceplates are brittle and can crack when abused. When faceplates are cracked, they can expose people to hazardous electricity and should be replaced. If the cracks extend to the receptacles of the electrical outlet, the outlet will need to be replaced as well. 

Outlets Don’t Have Power or Won’t Hold Plugs 

While outlets are generally expected to last for a long while, wear and tear can take a toll. The internal components of an electrical outlet will eventually wear out, and this will be evident in two ways. First, outlets that are worn out will not provide power. Plugging in appliances or electronics will prove the receptacle is broken and needs replacement. 

Secondly, outlets that have suffered from wear and tear will fail to hold plugs snuggly. When the small springs inside outlets have worn out, plugs will work themselves loose. This can cause a loss of power and exposure to a hot plug. Always let professionals deal with outlets that have lost power or won’t snuggly hold plugs by replacing the affected outlets. 

Sparking or Overheating Outlets

One of the biggest hazards of electricity is the heat that it produces. When electrical components are not properly installed or used or worn out, heat can build up to the point it causes sparks or arcing. In some cases, the plastic that is used in outlets can melt. 

Homeowners should pay special attention to commonly used outlets. If they show signs of overheating, like sparks, soot, or deformation from heat, they need to be addressed immediately. With power outlet replacement, professional electrical contractors can quickly make the outlet safe and usable again. 

About Atlas Home Service

Atlas Home Service prides itself on its phenomenal team and customer service. This family-owned electrical contractor can handle any home's outlet replacement or electrical repairs. Call today for electrical service in Alexandria, LA. 

Contact Information:

Atlas Home Service

3140 Baldwin Ave
Alexandria, LA 71301
United States

Hannah Drechsel
(318) 528-8755
https://www.atlashomeservice.com/