Tips From Craddock’s Electrical in Nashville, Tennessee
You might be in shock about all the issues those little electrical outlets around your house could have (and at the amount of puns you will be reading here). Well, hopefully, you’re as ex-static as we are because we’ll be laying out some common electrical outlet problems that you can prevent or look out for, so keep reading if you’re interested.
Cracks and Chips – Troubles You Can’t Ignore
Cracks and chips are a more noticeable issue that can be quickly fixed by turning off your power and replacing the electrical outlet with a new one. Mostly, older models are more susceptible to cracks and chipping because they lack the touch vinyl used on the bodies of newer models. So if your electrical outlet consists of bakelite plastic, be sure to inspect it!
Quality Matters – Invest in Reliable Outlets
Overall, anything of poor quality will suffer from multiple issues. While cheap outlets are useful in the short-term (and, well, cheap), they will eventually have issues down the line. Investing in a higher quality outlet that will run well for years to come will be more worth it. If you’re unsure about the quality of your electrical outlets, you can inspect it for an approval stamp from a credible testing agency. Replace it if you cannot find that stamp.
Loose Connections – A Potential Fire Hazard
As time continues, your outlet will have been used over and over again. Drawing current related to wiring connection will generate heat, expanding and contracting the wires. Eventually, your circuit wires or the screws can become loose. In a worse-case scenario, the circuit may maintain that heat until it starts a fire. Trustworthy electricians, like those at Craddock’s Electrical, would normally not wire an outlet through push-in fittings behind it because it is a common way to start a fire. If you come across an issue like this, call an electrician to come down and help. Unless you’re a real handy person who can tighten wire connections properly, it may be in your best interest to refrain from doing this yourself.
Overloaded Circuits – Watch Your Electrical Consumption
This electrical outlet issue can be easily overlooked if you aren’t careful. Most household outlet receptacles have a 15 amp or 20 amp circuit. In order to prevent overloading, it’s crucial to know the amp rating of your outlet and avoid plugging in too many high-powered devices simultaneously. If you find yourself frequently tripping the circuit breaker, it’s time to consult an electrician to address the issue properly.
Don’t let electrical outlet problems zap your peace of mind! For reliable electrical solutions in Nashville, Tennessee, trust the experts at Craddock’s Electrical. Whether it’s fixing cracks, upgrading outlets, or handling loose connections, our skilled electricians have the knowledge and expertise to keep your home safe and powered up. Call us today for a quick and efficient resolution to all your electrical needs.