What to Do If Your Outlet Stops Working
If you’ve ever plugged in a device only to find that the outlet isn’t working, you know how frustrating it can be. Before you panic or assume the worst, there are a few simple and safe steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue and determine if you need to contact the professionals. Our licensed electricians at Redland Electric are here to assist you every step of the way with the troubleshooting process.
Step 1: Check Other Outlets and Devices
The first step is to determine whether the problem is isolated to one outlet or if it’s part of a larger issue.
Plug a different device into the outlet to confirm it isn’t the device itself that’s malfunctioning.
Test nearby outlets to see if they’re working properly.
If multiple outlets are out, the issue could be with your circuit breaker or wiring.
Step 2: Inspect the Circuit Breaker
Sometimes, a tripped circuit breaker is the culprit.
Locate your home’s electrical panel and look for any switches that aren’t fully in the “ON” position.
If you find a tripped breaker, switch it fully to the “OFF” position, then back to “ON.”
Test the outlet again to see if this resolves the issue.
Step 3: Check for GFCI Outlets
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are commonly used in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas. These outlets are designed to shut off power if they detect a ground fault. Sometimes GFCI outlets are triggered by mistake when a new device or multiple devices are connected to the outlet.
Check if the non-working outlet is part of a GFCI circuit. GFCI outlets have “TEST” and “RESET” buttons.
Unplug your device and press the “RESET” button to restore power. If this fixes the problem, the outlet should now be functioning.
Step 4: Examine The Outlet for Visible Damage
Inspect the outlet for any visible signs of damage, such as:
Burn marks or discoloration around the outlet.
A loose or wobbly outlet faceplate.
Unusual smells like burning plastic.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to stop using the outlet and seek professional assistance immediately. Using a faulty outlet increases the risk of electrical shocks, fires, appliance damage, power interruptions, and potential harm to your home's electrical system. We highly recommend that you seek professional help and reach out to a licensed electrician near you.
Step 5: Rule Out Overloaded Circuits
Overloaded circuits can cause an outlet to stop working. Overloaded circuits occur when too many devices or appliances draw more electricity than the circuit is designed to handle. This can cause the outlet to stop working because the circuit breaker trips to protect the wiring from overheating and potentially catching fire.
Unplug some devices from the outlet and surrounding outlets on the same circuit. If it works fine, the issue may have been related to overloading the circuit with high-energy devices.
Go to your circuit breaker panel and look for any tripped breakers. A tripped breaker indicates that the circuit has been overloaded and cut off power to prevent further damage. If the breaker is in the "off" position, flip it back to "on" and see if the outlet or circuit works again.
If you're unsure or the circuit continues to trip, it's best to have a licensed electrician inspect the wiring and assess the capacity of the circuit to ensure safe operation.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve gone through these steps and your outlet still isn’t working, it’s time to call in the experts. It's crucial for homeowners to hire licensed, insured, and certified electricians to ensure safety and compliance with regulations, so always check for these credentials before hiring. Attempting to fix electrical problems yourself can be dangerous and lead to further damage or injury.
Do not compromise on safety— contact us or call 864-909-4441 for comprehensive electrical troubleshooting service today. Locally-owned electrical company serving Greenville, SC and the surrounding areas. Redland Electric is fully licensed, bonded, and insured for your peace of mind.