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Why Your Plugs Keep Falling out of Your Outlets

Oct 7, 2021 | Electrical Outlets, Residential Electricity

Electrical outlets are an element of your home that can be easy to take for granted. When an outlet is functioning normally, homeowners and tenants often do not give them a second look when plugging devices in. Once an outlet starts to wear down, it can cause multiple devices in key areas of your home to stop working. If you are noticing that plugs are starting to slip or fall out of an outlet, this is typically a clear indicator that the outlet needs to be replaced. As leading providers of commercial and residential electrical services, the team at Expert Electric understands how annoying and hazardous this problem can be. That is why we have compiled some information to explain why your plugs keep falling out of outlets and what can be done to fix this problem.

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Common Causes

If plugs are falling out of an outlet, the fault can lie with either the prongs on the plug or the receptacle. Try connecting multiple devices to determine the source of the issue. If only one device is falling out of the outlet, it is likely the plug that is damaged. If multiple plugs are falling out, then your outlet will likely need to be replaced.

Damaged or worn contact points are the main cause of loose outlets. Essentially, an outlet becomes worn down the more it is used over time. In addition to wear, heat and sparks from old wiring can cause outlets to become worn, though this is typically accompanied by discolouration or the presence of smoke.

Potential Solutions

While loose outlets are certainly an inconvenience, they also pose a significant hazard to you and your home. When dealing with a loose outlet, most people will assume that the problem lies in the plug. To solve this perceived issue, you may be tempted to bend the prongs on the cord or utilize electrical tape to achieve a stronger connection. Neither of these methods are safe and can drastically increase the risk of shock or electrical shorts.

If your plugs are constantly falling out due to worn contact points, it is time to replace the outlet. While it may be tempting to install the replacement yourself, this can result in injury and additional damage to your wiring systems or electrical panel. To ensure that this replacement is installed correctly, it is highly recommended to contact a licensed electrician.

To learn more about our residential electrical services and other solutions, get in touch with the team at Expert Electric. We can be reached by phone at 604-681-8338 or through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.