In case you’re unaware then you must know that electrical outlets are always fastened to outlet boxes, which in turn are attached to the drywall. However, over time, these outlet boxes will become loose due to constant usage and you have to fix them to be able to avoid any electrical mishaps.
The fix isn’t about tightening some screws – it’s about replacing the outlet box with a new smaller one and will fit snugly into the drywall. There can also be other underlying problems such as frayed wires, which can pose threat to you & your family members. That’s why it’s suggested to always hire professional electricians for the task and get the same fixed without any problems.
The Warning Symptoms Of A Loose Electrical Outlet Box
According to a reliable electrician in West Auckland, multiple symptoms can tell you that the electrical outlet box is loose. You’ll feel like the whole outlet box is coming off from the wall when you unplug/plug an electrical device.
In case the outlet box has been loose for a considerable amount of time, the wires attached to the outlet box will also get loose and thereby lead to damages.
Additional Problems That Can Arise Due To Loose Electrical Outlet Boxes
If the loose outlet box issue stays unaddressed for a long time, then various other issues can also start popping up, such as:
- Faceplate Getting Cracked
Once the loose outlet box has been pulled enough times against the faceplate, the faceplate may develop cracks over time. If your faceplate has been cracked, then the live electrical wires beneath it could be exposed. Hence, it’s suggested that you stop using your electrical outlet till the same gets fixed by a professional electrician.
- Inconsistent Electrical Connections
If your electrical outlet box has become loose, then the electrical connections won’t be consistent and thus a constant flow of electricity won’t be provided. In case you want to avoid such inconsistency, then you have to fix the outlet box right away.
- Electrical Cords Can Get Damaged
If your electrical cords take time to be plugged into a loose electrical outlet box, it will also take more force to be unplugged from the socket. Thus, over a longer period, your electrical cords can get damaged due to such a plugging/unplugging mechanism.
In worst scenarios, the electrical cord may develop loose wire connections, leading to electrical shocks.
- Electrical Shocks
One of the significant dangers of a loose electrical outlet box is the electrical shocks. If your electronic devices don’t get plugged in properly, then you’re bound to experience shocks when unplugging them.
Thus, you must keep the above-mentioned aspects in intellect before planning to fix your loose electrical outlet box.
