Mastering Electric Wall Plugs: B&K Electric’s Tips

How To Check Electric Wall Plugs

B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, has been proudly servicing the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. With a reputation rooted in community and customer service, B&K Electric is the go-to electrician for all your electrical needs in the Warwick and greater Providence area.

As a homeowner in East Providence, Rhode Island (zip code 02906), it is important to ensure the safety and functionality of your home’s electrical system. One of the most basic and necessary checks that every homeowner should know is how to check the electric wall plugs in their home. Faulty wall plugs can lead to potential electrical hazards and can also indicate larger underlying issues in your home’s wiring. In this article, we will discuss the steps to follow when checking your electric wall plugs, as well as provide insights and tips from our licensed electricians at B&K Electric.

Step 1: Turn off the Power

Before beginning any electrical work, it is crucial to turn off the power to the area you will be working in. This can be done by turning off the breaker for that area in your home’s electrical panel. If you are unsure which breaker controls the area, it is best to turn off the main switch to be safe. In some cases, wall plugs may be on their own circuit, in which case, only that circuit needs to be turned off. Be sure to have a flashlight handy in case you need to work in a dimly lit area.

Step 2: Inspect the Wall Plug

Once the power is turned off, carefully remove the wall plug cover by unscrewing the screws on the top and bottom. Inspect the outlet for any visible damage, such as burn marks, corrosion, or loose wires. If you notice any of these issues, it is best to contact a licensed electrician for further inspection and repairs. If there are no visible signs of damage, proceed to the next steps.

Step 3: Use a Voltage Tester

A voltage tester is a device that can determine the presence of electrical current in an outlet. Before using the voltage tester, make sure the power is still turned off to the outlet. Test the voltage tester on a known live outlet to ensure it is working properly. Then, insert one probe into the smaller slot of the outlet and the other probe into the larger slot. If the voltage tester lights up, it indicates there is still power flowing to the outlet and it is not safe to work on it.

Step 4: Check for Loose Wires

If the voltage tester does not light up, it is safe to proceed with further inspection. Check for any loose wires inside the outlet. If any wires are loose, tighten them using a screwdriver. Loose wires can lead to arcing, which can cause heat build-up and potentially start a fire. If you are unsure how to properly tighten loose wires, it is best to contact a licensed electrician for assistance.

Step 5: Test with a Circuit Tester

A circuit tester is another tool that can help determine the functionality of an outlet. It is inserted into the outlet and will indicate if the outlet is wired properly. If the circuit tester indicates that the outlet is wired incorrectly, it is best to contact a licensed electrician for further inspection and repairs.

Step 6: Test the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

GFCIs are outlets that are commonly found in bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas. They are designed to protect against electric shock and will automatically shut off power if a current imbalance is detected. To test the GFCI, press the test button on the outlet. The power should shut off, indicating that it is functioning properly. Press the reset button to restore power to the outlet.

Step 7: Reattach Wall Plug Cover and Restore Power

Once all tests and inspections have been completed, carefully reattach the wall plug cover and restore power to the outlet by turning the designated breaker back on. Test the outlet by plugging in a small appliance or device to ensure it is functioning properly.

It is important for homeowners in the East Providence, Rhode Island (zip code 02906) area to know how to properly check their electric wall plugs for safety and functionality. By following the steps outlined in this article and seeking the help of a licensed electrician when needed, you can ensure the safety of your home’s electrical system. Remember, safety always comes first when dealing with electricity.

Topics:

electric wall plugs,

electrical safety,

voltage tester