Part of keeping your family safe is knowing when it’s time to upgrade the electrical outlets in your home. There are visual and functional clues that will let you know it’s time to replace your outlets.

Signs Electrical Outlets Should Be Replaced

1. Electrical outlets only have two prongs. Two-prong outlets prevent you from plugging in three-pronged appliances and are not grounded. Any outlets that don’t have three-prongs need to be replaced immediately. These outlets pose a shock risk and puts electronics at-risk of permanent damage. Using a surge protector can’t save expensive electronics if you have two-pronged outlets. Your electrical panel will also need to be rewired when two-pronged outlets are switched out.
2. Electrical outlets won’t hold a plug. When outlets don’t hold a plug, it means that the slots in the outlet are too loose. This means that the contacts in the outlet are also worn out. This may not seem like a big deal, but missed and loose connections can cause arcing. This puts your home at risk of electrical fires.
3. Electrical outlets feel warm or hot. You can be sure you’re having electrical trouble if your outlets feel hot to the touch. This indicates loose, damaged or worn wire issues that are hidden behind the walls and pose a huge fire hazard.
4. Burn marks on outlets. This is like a bright, red flashing warning light that your outlet may be burned, damaged or installed improperly. Look for scorch marks and melted plastic around the receptacle. This can result in a fire. DO NOT use discolored outlets. Cut the power to it and call the professionals.
5. Electrical outlet sparks when I plug something in. Another clear indication that you need a professional electrician is if you hear popping or sizzling sounds. This is a sign that a fire is waiting to happen. Cut the power to the outlet and have it inspected as soon as possible.
6. GFCI outlets trip when they are tested? GFCI outlets protect you and your home. If you press the TEST button and the GFCI outlet doesn’t trip, you have no protection. These outlets only last for about 10 years and only 5 in areas that experience storms and power surges. If they aren’t working, you’ll need to replace them as soon as possible.

When to Replace or Update Electrical Outlets

Outlets need to be replaced, but they should also be upgraded to newer outlet technology, even if they are still functioning as they should. New advances in outlets can save space, increase safety and provide convenient operation. Newer outlets can maximize the real estate afforded for outlets with the huge number of outlet-hogging chargers that we rely on today. These newer outlets also prevent plugs from protruding and prevent cords from dangling in dangerous areas. They also keep cords tucked away from curious fingers. Wi-Fi outlets provide monitoring and operation from anywhere and can provide peace of mind.

Electrical Services in Delray Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter & Boca Raton & Palm Beach County Florida

Contact Simon Electric for a home electrical inspection audit to determine if you need replacing and/or upgrading of the outlets in your home. Contact us today!