Repair of a non-functioning socket outlet

Repair of a non-functioning socket outlet. Repairing an electrical outlet is not a time-consuming process. With a budget of a few pounds and a few tools, you can do this job easily. Sometimes outlets become loose due to vibration, and wear and tear can cause the housing to break. The small pieces of copper that are in the “slots” of the outlet can move further apart from rough handling when a plug is inserted quickly. Therefore, a defective outlet may not be apparent at first glance.

Unfortunately, accidents and fires occur all the time due to poor maintenance of electrical outlets. In most cases, the best solution is to replace the outlet with a new one and re-route the wiring to connect the new outlet. You can purchase plastic electrical outlets at hardware stores at very reasonable prices.

Turn off the power to the outlet

Thousands of people are electrocuted every year because they are unprepared and unaware of the potential dangers of handling electrical components. Turn on the voltage tester and check all connections to the outlet to make sure no current is entering the outlet. If it is a duplex outlet, make sure both outlets are turned off, as each could be powered by a different circuit.

Remove the front panel of the outlet

To remove the old outlet, use the screwdriver to unscrew the faceplate and then carefully remove the outlet from the wall. During this step, you should again use the voltage tester to check if current is flowing through the side terminal screws to make sure the circuit is empty.

Removing the wire attachment from the old socket

Again, use the screwdriver to remove the wires from the attachment points on the old outlet. Usually the “neutral” side has lighter coloured screws while the “hot” side has darker coloured screws, but double check as there may be exceptions. If you removed the wiring from the old outlet, you can throw it away. Take a quick look at the wires and look for burn marks or nicks. Make sure the insulation on the wires is still intact. Cut the exposed wires, then remove (with wire strippers) about 1.25 cm of the plastic insulation from the wire.

Attach the wires to the new socket

Attach the wires to the same location they were in the old outlet. The colours can be misleading because different regions have different colour codes. Therefore, it is very important that you remember the respective wire colour assignments to the connection points before removing the wires from the old outlet. After you have made the wiring, wrap insulating tape around the outlet to ensure that all connections are insulated.

In conclusion, it is better to call the Emergency Electrician in Dudley. We are the best emergency service in your area. In a few minutes after your call, our Customer Service sends an expert electrician to your place. Furthermore, the electricians are licenced and professionals. Never hesitate to call us. We are 24 hours available.

Call us 01384465898