Why would an electrician repair a loose electrical socket?

 

The electrical outlets in your home are called outlet boxes and are attached to a wall stud. The screws on the outlet boxes loosen over time. Are you trying to plug a power cable into the plug, but it feels like the whole thing is falling out? Then you're probably dealing with a loose socket box.

Someone who knows a thing or two about DIY would love the opportunity to try and fix the problem. However, a loose electrical box is not just a matter of tightening the screws; the box needs to be replaced or the holes in the wall re-cut.

Why is it important to repair a loose socket?

Loose electrical outlets cause the power cables to be susceptible to damage because the wires can rub against something in the drywall. This leads to heat build-up, which can cause problems in the wiring and put your dream home at risk of an electrical fire.

Watch out for warning signs

Below are some warning signs that you should definitely not ignore:

• The socket box comes loose from the wall when you try to plug in the power cable.
• The front panel is cracked and constantly moving.
• The panel is not flat against the drywall.

If the problem is recent, replacing the old outlet will suffice. However, if it's something that's been there for a while, your power cables are responsible. This, in turn, harbours hidden risks that may be lurking in your home.

What potential damage can a loose socket cause?

Having to deal with loose sockets can be a real nuisance, and we often tend to ignore it. But if you don't fix the problem, it can lead to life-threatening situations such as:

Electrocution

Electrocution is one of the constant dangers posed by a loose socket. If you suffer an electric shock when unplugging or plugging in a power cable, have it repaired immediately.

Damage to the cable

If a lot of force is required to plug in the cable, there is a good chance that the same pressure will be required to pull it out of the socket. These poor cable connections make the power cable unusable.

There is a high probability that the cables will get stuck in the loose sockets and pose an electrical hazard. Furthermore, if you try to remove the cables without specialised equipment, you are putting your life at risk.

Inconsistent charging

If appliances are not charging consistently, there is a problem with the flow of electricity. This means that loose socket boxes will provide an inconsistent power supply. This can lead to damage to batteries and electronic devices.

Call the Emergency Electrician in Bournemouth. We are available around the clock. Call us now, 01202080178.