Outlets, switches and GFCI replacement

Signs a device needs replacing

• Plugs fall out of an outlet.
• An outlet or switch plate feels warm.
• A switch crackles, sparks or works only sometimes.
• Discolored or melted plastic around a slot.
• A GFCI that will not reset or trips without anything plugged in.
• Cracked faceplates or broken devices.

Warmth, scorch marks or a burning smell need attention quickly. Turn off that breaker and do not use the outlet until it is checked.

GFCI protection

A GFCI outlet compares the current going out and coming back. If some current is leaking, for example through a person to ground, it cuts power in a fraction of a second. Bathrooms, kitchen counters, laundry areas, garages and outdoor outlets are the typical locations.

One GFCI can protect outlets downstream of it on the same circuit, which is why an outlet in one bathroom sometimes resets from another room. We find the existing GFCI, test it, and replace it or add GFCI protection to existing outlets in wet areas.

Switches and dimmers

We replace single-pole, three-way and four-way switches, add dimmers on light circuits, and install timers and occupancy sensors. LED lights need dimmers rated for LED loads; otherwise they flicker or buzz. Smart switches often need a neutral wire in the switch box, which older homes may not have. We check before you buy.

Two-prong outlets

Many older homes have two-prong outlets with no ground wire. Swapping in a three-prong outlet without a ground is not a fix. A GFCI outlet can be installed in place of a two-prong outlet to add shock protection, labeled "No Equipment Ground," as electrical codes allow.

USB and specialty outlets

USB outlets fit standard boxes but are deeper; crowded boxes may not have room. Tamper-resistant outlets have shutters that keep objects out of the slots and are a good choice in homes with children. Weather-resistant outlets with in-use covers are made for outdoor locations.

Scope

Our electrical fixture repairs page lists the electrical work we take on.

Testing GFCIs

Press the test button: the reset button should pop out and power should cut off. Press reset to restore it. If the GFCI does not trip, or will not reset, it needs replacing.

Many makers recommend testing monthly. Newer GFCIs also self-test and show a light when they reach end of life.

Loose outlets in old boxes

Outlets that move when you plug in usually have stripped mounting screws or a box set too deep behind the wall surface. Box extenders or spacers bring the device flush with the wall so it is firmly supported. A loose device can loosen wire connections over time, so fixing it is worthwhile.

What to send

Photos of the outlet or switch and what is plugged in, and whether the breaker trips.

Kitchen and garage outlets

Kitchen counters often have outlets on two or more circuits, with a GFCI protecting several. If counter outlets suddenly lose power, check every GFCI in the kitchen first. Garage outlets often sit on a GFCI that also feeds outdoor outlets.

Freezers and refrigerators on GFCI-protected outlets can lose power if the GFCI trips, so check them after a trip. We replace and label devices so you know which GFCI protects which outlets.

Faceplates and childproofing

Sliding outlet covers and tamper-resistant outlets keep small fingers and objects out. Screwless faceplates give a clean look. We can swap faceplates throughout a house to match.

Switches in hard-to-reach places

Switches behind doors or in awkward spots can be swapped for smart switches or paired with wireless remote switches that stick to the wall elsewhere, without new wiring. Remote switches work with smart bulbs or smart switches.

Labeling the panel

Knowing which breaker controls what saves time in an emergency. While we work, we can note which breaker feeds the circuits we touched and update the panel directory where it is unclear.

More questions

Can you install an outdoor outlet cover? Yes, an in-use cover on an existing outdoor outlet.

Why does a switch do nothing? It may control an outlet; check the lower outlet halves in the room.

A whole-house refresh

Replacing old almond or yellowed devices throughout a home with new white or black outlets and switches makes rooms look updated for little cost. While doing that, we tighten loose connections in the existing boxes and replace cracked plates. If we find a box with damaged wiring, we leave that circuit off and show you.

Monthly test button

Press TEST on each GFCI once a month; the power should cut, and RESET should bring it back. If it will not trip, or will not reset, the device is due for replacement. We show you which GFCI protects which downstream outlets so a dead bathroom plug is not a mystery.

Loose plugs

When a plug falls out of an outlet, the contacts inside are worn. A new receptacle fixes that grip and reduces heat at the connection.

Photo checklist