Household electrical problems, which often occur suddenly, pose risks to property and people. Problems with electrical outlets are no exception. Fortunately, replacing old outlets around your home goes a long way in helping to keep your family safe. Here’s what you should know.

Why Do Electrical Outlets Need Replacing?

An outlet generally has two wires that wrap around two terminal screws. One of these wires is hot. It carries electrical current to the outlet to power the switch. The other is neutral. It carries the same current away.

When an appliance is plugged in, the hot wire supplies the power to turn it on. The neutral wire carries any excess current away from the outlet. 

Repeatedly plugging appliances in and out of an outlet may begin to loosen the wires from their respective terminals. Loose wires may slow or disrupt the flow of current to and from appliances, making them hard or impossible to use.

Additionally, loose wires and wires with aged, cracked, or damaged insulation may also cause a short circuit, sending too much current to an appliance, damaging it or sparking a fire. 

When to Replace an Outlet

The Cover Plate Is Warm

If the surface of an outlet’s cover plate is warm or darkened and singed, replace the outlet. Deteriorated wire terminals and loose wire connections lead to overheating, melting, sparks, and fires. 

There’s No Power

If all of the outlets in your house but one work just fine, it may need to be replaced. A dead outlet usually indicates that a wire has slipped off a terminal or is damaged. 

It Produces Electric Shocks

If an outlet produces a shock whenever an appliance is turned on, cease using it and have it replaced.

If you have household electrical issues, A & R Home Center will help. For over 48 years, this locally owned business has been serving the home improvement needs of clients in Washington, IN, and surrounding communities. Besides household electrical issues, they can also solve HVAC and plumbing problems, too. For more information, give them a call at (812) 254-7018, or visit them online to search their household electrical inventory.