Troubleshooting dead electrical outlets in your home is one of the things that you should know how to do yourself.
Most homeowners assume the worst when an outlet goes dead. Luckily, the problem is usually something simple. Taking a few steps before you call for help can save money and you can probably fix the problem without the use of a tool.
Check to See if Other Electrical Outlets are Not Working
The first step is to see if other outlets are dead. Do this before you head out to the circuit breaker box by switching other lights on and off and testing nearby outlets for power. You should also unplug lamps and appliances from dead outlets to rule out the possibility that a short or overload from one of them is creating the problem. Use a piece of tape or stickers to mark off any dead outlets so you’ll know where they are when you turn the power off.
Reset a Tripped Circuit Breaker
Once you have unplugged all the devices from the dead outlets you will then check for tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses. These are located in the electrical panel that is located close to where the electrical wires enter your home. In most homes this is in the garage, the basement or a utility room. Open the metal door to reveal the fuses or circuit breakers and make sure you turn your computer off before you switch any circuit breakers on and off. You will know which breaker is tripped because it won’t be lined up with the rest of them. Turn it to the “on” position. Don’t be alarmed if the breaker “gives” a little instead of feeling solid. This is normal. You will then switch it to off to reset it. You should here a click. Next, you will push the handle firmly to “on”, so it’s lined up with the rest of them. If it pops back over to the tripped position, there may be a problem in the wiring or something that’s plugged into the circuit.
Can a Circuit Breaker Fail Without Tripping?
If you don’t see a tripped circuit breaker, firmly press every breaker to the “off’ position and then switch them all back on. If this doesn’t reset a tripped breaker without tripping again, there may be a potentially dangerous short circuit or ground fault condition. You will need to call an electrician to locate the problem.
What is a Blown Fuse in House?
If you overload a circuit, your system will cut off the electrical flow to prevent circuit damage or a fire. You will quickly be able to locate a blown fuse by looking for charring or a broken filament. You can fix the problem by simply unscrewing the blown fuse and replacing it with one of the same type and amperage.
Electrical Services in Greenwich, New Canaan, Darien, Norwalk, Westport, Southbury, Stamford, CT & Fairfield County, Connecticut
If you can’t easily troubleshoot a dead outlet and you discover that the problem needs the attention of the experts, you can call Sentry Electric for help. We will respond to your call quickly so you can avoid having more problems.
