Why Half of Your Electrical Outlet Isn’t Working
There is nothing more irritating than plugging your dead phone into an outlet and returning to find it hasn’t charged in the slightest. After a process of elimination, you discover it’s not your phone or charger. In fact, the other plug of the same outlet works fine!
So why is one half of your outlet not working? If the entire outlet isn’t working properly, you may suspect a wiring issue. In your particular case, there are four other possible reasons why half of the outlet isn’t working, including:
A switched plug
Backstabbed wiring
A wire nut that wasn’t used correctly
The wrong type of metal wire
Our team at Axiom Power dives into the deets of these common issues keeping half of your outlet from providing the power you need and when it’s time to call a pro.
Unraveling the Mystery of Inactive Outlets
If your electrical outlet problem has you stumped, check out these troubleshooting tips from our pros!
Switched Plugs
Before anything else, check if you have switched outlets. The majority of homes have duplex outlets, which let you plug in two devices simultaneously. But don’t get too hasty because you may have switched plugs. These half-hot outlets are a kind of duplex outlet with one plug “on” and the other controlled by your everyday wall switch.
These outlets are frequently seen in more modern construction or rooms that don’t have overhead lights, such as bedrooms or living rooms. This allows you to easily flip your bedside lamp on with the flick of a switch!
Go test it out. If that doesn’t work, get back to us.
Backstabbed Wiring
A standard plug is wired in one of two ways.
Correctly. The wire is curled around the screw and the screw is tightened down.
Incorrectly. The wire is backstabbed and pushed into the connector that “grabs” the wire within the outlet.
This incorrect way results in a weak connection that will quickly burn out. It’s safest to hire a professional to check this. It involves taking off the outlet cover and removing the receptacle from the outlet box to examine how the wires were wrapped. If it needs to be fixed, you definitely need to hire a professional electrician.
By trying to DIY this task, you put yourself at risk of a house fire or even a fatal electric shock, and insurance won’t be quick to help you out.
Axiom Power has the necessary equipment, protective gear, and insurance coverage to complete this task with no hassle.
Been backstabbed? Our friendly team at Axiom Power would never. Call today!
Bad Wire Nuts
Ah, nuts. Electrical issues can be a real bummer, especially when they are the result of a haphazard electrical job. Wire nuts are designed to organize and cover electrical wires, but when used incorrectly, they can lead to dysfunctional outlets.
Incorrect Wiring Material
The two main types of metal used for wires are:
Aluminum
Copper
Copper is strong and durable, so most devices are rated for this type of wiring. Aluminum, meanwhile, is brittle and breaks easily. It also has a higher electrical resistance, so heat can easily build inside the outlet and burn the wiring!
If not managed, this can be a fire hazard to your household, so schedule an inspection with a licensed electrician today!
We Don’t Settle for Glass Half Full
At Axiom Power, our electricians don’t settle for a glass half full! Either your outlets are fully working properly, or we stick around to find the solution. If you find yourself having issues with half of an outlet, you need to have it checked out to minimize any risks of fire hazards and even insurance battles.
Your outlets deserve all of the TLC you can give them, which means scheduling an inspection with a professional. Even if you aren’t having in-your-face issues, general annual maintenance is always a good idea. Our powerful electricians will brighten your life with No Problems, Just Solutions. Contact us today!