No matter how many electrical outlets your home has, it never seems to be enough. Some rooms may not have enough, others may have ones that don’t work, and some may not be grounded.
If you find yourself needing more receptacles in your home, it might be time to contact an outlet installation professional like the team at Milton Electric. Our team will visit your home and assess your needs to determine the best solution, whether you’re looking to install new electrical outlets or repair existing ones.
Signs You Need to Replace an Electrical Outlet
It’s important to keep all the outlets in your home up to date in order to lower the risk of a surge or even an electrical fire.
If you notice any of the following warning signs when you use your outlet, you should consider contacting an outlet installation professional:
- Discoloration: If you notice discoloration on or the wall surrounding areas, your outlet is likely improperly installed.
- Hot to the Touch: Does your outlet feel hot when you touch it? Receptacles that feel hot to the touch are a major fire hazard that should be repaired immediately.
- Sparking or Smoking: Similarly, outlets that spark, smoke, or omit a burning odor are a major fire hazard that must be repaired by an installation professional.
- Two-Prongs: These outlets, often found in older homes, are not properly grounded. This can significantly increase the risk of shock and damage to any electronic devices plugged into the outlet.
- Plug Falls Out: A plug that falls out is more than just a nuisance: it can signify that the contacts within the outlet are worn out and need to be replaced.
Did You Know?
Faulty outlets contribute to 51,000 home fires each year.
Common Types of Outlets We Install
Once it’s been determined that you need to installation in your home, you’ll need to pick the right type of receptacle. The Milton Electric team installs a variety of outlets and can help you identify the best fit for your needs. The most common type of outlet is a 15-amp, which is compatible with most circuits in your home.
However, if you need outlets that have a higher voltage, we recommend choosing a 20-amp or even 240-volt that can handle large machinery, like microwaves, water heaters, dryers, and ovens. You can also upgrade your existing with a smart outlet that can be controlled using your smartphone or a smart home device, like an Amazon Alexa.
No matter the voltage you’re looking for, we recommend choosing GFCI outlets for your home. GFCIs monitor the number of electrical currents running through it.
If the currents become unbalanced, the power to the outlet immediately cuts off, making them one of the safest and most effective options for installation. We recommend GFCI installation in your kitchen, bathroom, crawl space, unfinished basement, garages, and outdoor receptacle locations.
Outdoor Outlets
Homeowners aren’t just looking for installation inside their homes: many are looking to upgrade their backyard with outdoor electrical outlets.
Outdoor receptacles provide power to your home using a separate circuit to avoid overloading your home’s indoor circuits. They can be used to power mini fridges, televisions, string lights and more without the hassle of running an unsightly extension cord from your home into your yard!
When you install an outdoor electrical receptacles, it’s important to take additional safety precautions. As mentioned above, all outdoor outlets must be GFCI outlets to reduce the risk of electrical shock and electrocution. They must also be built with waterproof materials and covered with a weatherproof case that is approved for damp locations to keep your home and your family safe.
Why Hire an Electrician?
Whether you want to install a new outlet or repair an existing one, it’s important to hire an experienced installer like the installers at Milton Electric.
Our team will make sure your outlets are installed properly the first time, so you won’t need to worry about your malfunctions. You can feel comfortable knowing your home and your family will be safe and protected from electrical safety hazards.
Outlet Installation and Repair FAQ
What is a grounded outlet?
A grounded outlet has three prongs to prevent any electrical accidents or injuries. Grounded outlets can absorb more electricity compared to two-prong outlets and provide a much safer option to homeowners.
What causes an outlet to spark?
Quick outlet sparks are often normal and happen when there is space between an outlet and a plug. When an outlet is consistently sparking, you should reach out to an electrician to replace a faulty outlet and to ensure your safety. Sparks occur when outlets are worn out, installed incorrectly, overloaded, and exposed to water. Address any outlet sparking concerns right away with Milton Electric.
Why is my outlet buzzing?
Outlet buzzing is caused by loose connections, breaker issues, and improper installation. A buzzing outlet can be dangerous if left unfixed. If you’re having an outlet buzz, call Milton Electric to replace your electrical outlet.
What do surge protectors do?
Surge Protectors are meant to protect your electronic devices in case there is a power surge in your home. Without surge protectors, you risk the chance of damaging your home appliances.
Is a buzzing plug socket dangerous?
Yes, a buzzing plug socket can be a safety hazard and could potentially lead to a fire. It's important to practice electrical home safety to keep you and your family safe.