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Why doesn’t this outlet work?
Ever plugged your vacuum in and it kept turning on and off based on the cord position? That is usually the result of a bad connection. This is only one problem that can plague outlets. If you have an outlet receptacle that is not working, here are some common causes to them not working.
Tripped circuit breaker – kind of obvious I know. Why did this trip? Perhaps you have too many things on the circuit (i.e. hair dryer, clothes iron, hair straightener…) Reset the breaker. If it keeps popping consult an electrician.
Tripped GFCI – these are the outlets with buttons in the bathroom, kitchen, garage and outside. Some newer construction have these in the main electrical panel. Reset the button. Again, if it keeps popping consult an electrician.Tripped AFCI – these are in newer construction and are located in the main electrical panel. These usually control bedroom outlets. Reset the circuit breaker and if it keeps popping consult an electrician.
Switch controlled outlet – many front rooms and bedrooms have a switch that controls one half or the whole outlet receptacle. Be sure this outlet is not controlled by a switch in the room or just outside of the room.Loose connectors within the receptacle slots. This happens due to excessive use. It is time to replace these outlets – talk to an electrician if you cannot do it safely.
A FEW OTHER TIPS:- Buy a three prong outlet tester. They cost about $10 from the hardware store and will easily confirm the proper operation of your outlets. A current tester can detect power in two-prong outlets and wires (about $15).
Keep three feet of clearance above, below, beside, and in front of your main electrical panel cover. This is code! And it is important if you ever need to reset a breaker.- How do you know a breaker is tripped? It will be halfway between on and off and you will not be able to push directly into the on position. You will need to completely flip it off and then turn it back on (see picture above).
