When an electrical system is installed in a home all outlets are secured inside outlet boxes. Outlet boxes is set directly into the drywall and is mounted securely inside. The outlet box houses and protects the wiring that connects the outlet to the circuit. The outlet box is essential in preventing electrical hazards which can lead to a fire. When the outlet box becomes loose, this can be a problem that requires addressing. Burley Electrical Services will share the signs of a loose outlet box and explain the many hazards of a loose outlet box.
Repair or Replace to Fix a Loose Outlet?
When an outlet box becomes loose it can require a number of different fixes. Depending as to why the outlet box became loose in the first place, the outlet box may need to be replaced. Over time the drywall needs to be adjusted. The drywall may have worn down and become too big to properly house the outlet box. In this scenario the drywall will require some kind of fitting to tighten up the hole and make the outlet box set inside more securely. Sometimes during installation the drywall wasn’t cut straight or is big enough to force the outlet box to set incorrectly. Because there is exposed wiring it is important that a professional electrical service come and repair loose outlet boxes.
Signs of Loose Outlet Electrical Problems in Home
When an outlet box becomes too loose, at times the outlet may look like it is coming out of the wall. The face plate will also wiggle around a lot or not lay flat to the wall. The face plate is important as it protects the wiring behind the outlet. If the wiring isn’t protected, it can cause moisture or other foreign objects to make contact with the wiring and lead to electrical hazards. Another danger of having a loose outlet box is that if the box can move, the wiring can become loosened and disconnect from the outlet or the wires can be damaged as the box shifts around.
Are Loose Outlets Dangerous?
If the outlet’s faceplate is cracked this can also be a sign the outlet box is loose. A cracked faceplate can be due to an impact. To be safe, carefully see if the outlet box wiggles or appears loose. If not, simply replace the faceplate. Another sign or problem associated with a loose outlet box is inconsistent power. When an outlet is used but power not stable, this is a sign the wiring is loose. Loose wiring is also a bad thing. Often loose wiring or a loose connection happened because the outlet box is no longer secured in place. If nothing else, have the outlet replaced and the wiring checked to make sure the connection is tight. If the outlet box is dangerously loose, then the outlet box must also be secured.
Electrical Inspections, Wiring & More in Pompano Beach, Imperial Point, Plantation, Deerfield Beach, Boca Raton, Davie, Lighthouse Point, Parkland & Fort Lauderdale, Florida
A loose outlet box may seem like a minor issue. However, the outlet box must be tight as a loose box can cause damage to the wiring, lead to loose connections and even be a fire hazard. When the outlet box feels loose it is best to have it repaired before it leads to a more serious situation. If your outlet boxes are loose or you are having other electrical problems, contact Burley Electrical Services. We provide a number of electrical services to ensure your safety and electrical reliability. For quality electrical services, contact Burley Electrical Services today.
