Why Outlets Suddenly Stop Working and What You Can Do About It

In today's world, electrical outlets are an essential part of daily life. They power phones, laptops, and all the other devices that keep us connected and entertained. Because they're such a vital part of your home, it can be quite frustrating when an outlet suddenly stops working. Explore some common reasons why outlets suddenly stop working - and what you can do about it.

Common Reasons Why Outlets Suddenly Stop Working

• Power Surges and Their Impact on Outlets: Power surges, caused by sudden voltage spikes in an electrical system, are a leading cause of outlet malfunction. Surges can be the result of electrical faults, lightning strikes, and even issues with the power grid. When a power surge happens, it can easily damage the wiring and electrical components within an outlet and cause its failure. Installing surge protectors on outlets can help prevent damage and can also protect your devices from voltage fluctuations. 
• Faulty Wiring and Outlet Issues: Another common culprit behind electrical outlet failure is defective or damaged wiring. Over time, several factors can contribute to damage and wear on outlets. These include everything from simple age and questionable installation to pest activity. When an outlet's wiring is compromised, it can fail to deliver power to devices and objects. When this happens, it's essential to work with a licensed electrician who can inspect and repair all faulty wiring in your home to ensure the safety and reliability of your entire electrical system. 
• Tripped Circuits and Resetting Outlets: Sometimes an outlet can stop working altogether due to a tripped circuit breaker or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet. These are safety features that help to protect against short circuits and electrical overloads. When a GFCI outlet is triggered, or a circuit breaker is tripped, it cuts the power to all connected outlets. Resetting the circuit breaker or GFCI outlet can sometimes be the only fix required for a non-functional electrical outlet. If the issue persists and you find yourself frequently resetting things, it's a good idea to bring in a knowledgeable, licensed electrician to investigate further. 

Why You Should Consult a Professional Electrician When Outlets Suddenly Stop Working

When you're dealing with non-functional electrical outlets, it's absolutely crucial that you avoid DIY solutions and work with a professional electrician. Attempting to fix it yourself without the requisite training and knowledge can worsen the problem, as well as introduce potential safety hazards. On the other hand, a licensed electrician will accurately diagnose the cause of the issue to determine whether it's attributable to faulty wiring, circuitry, or electrical components. 

When outlets don't work as they should, it can be an inconvenient, frustrating experience. Addressing the issue promptly and safely with the expert help of a professional electrician is essential. During these repairs, it's a good idea to consider upgrading your outlets to include USB and USBC ports, which can dramatically increase the convenience and efficiency of charging devices, while transforming your home into a more modern, tech-forward, and user-friendly space.

Contact Wilcox Electric today to schedule an estimate for outlet repairs and upgrades. With the help of a professional team,  it's relatively simple to enhance your home's electrical system and make your life a bit easier by enabling more convenient connections all around the house.