Here’s a common scenario. You plug cell phone chargers, smart speakers, and other devices into the same outlet every day. Until one day, the outlet doesn’t work, no matter what you attempt to plug in. “Hmm, that’s odd – it worked fine yesterday. What gives?”

There are several reasons why electrical outlets stop working. In some instances, the problem can easily be resolved with a little investigative work. Follow along as we explore ways to troubleshoot a malfunctioning outlet.

Do you have a half-hot outlet? This refers to an outlet where half of it – usually the bottom – is controlled by a switch on a wall, typically for the purpose of plugging in a lamp and being able to turn it on and off from a wall switch rather than the lamp’s switch. Try flipping the switch and then retry the outlet.

Plug something else into the outlet to evaluate whether it’s the outlet that’s not functioning or the device you’re trying to plug in.

Is it a GFCI outlet? Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets are installed in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and anywhere there’s water and are designed to shut themselves off when sensing a surge in electricity, thus minimizing the risk of electrocution. And yet sometimes GFCI’s can be a bit temperamental and shut off even without sensing a surge. To reset, simply push the small button in the center of the outlet and plug in your device again to see if it works.

Test other outlets in the room. If they are functional, the problem rests with that one outlet. However, if others are dead, it’s time to check the breaker panel.

Check the breaker panel to see if any breakers have flipped. Open the panel door and look for any breakers in between “ON” and “OFF.” If you find one, flip it to “OFF” first, then “ON” to reset it. Then go back to the problem outlet or outlets and try again.

If power was restored to the outlet after flipping the breaker, the circuit may have overloaded. This can happen when too many items are plugged into the same circuit, especially those that generate heat. The circuit breaker will flip, cutting power to a group of outlets because you’re attempting to draw more energy than that circuit is equipped to handle. Unplug one or two items to keep it from overloading and try that outlet again.

Still don’t have power? It’s time to call an electrician. You may have a short circuit, loose or damaged wiring, or a faulty outlet that needs replacing. Unless you are a trained and licensed electrician, these aren’t problems you should attempt on your own. Electrical wiring is complex and potentially dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing.

But we do – know what we’re doing, that is. We’re Excel Electric, and we provide the expert electrical services you depend on for the kind of convenience and personal security you depend on. Call us today or any time and let us know how we can help.