Wall Socket Not Working? What To Do About It: Follow Our Complete Guide

A wall socket that suddenly stops working can be frustrating, especially when you rely on it for charging your devices or powering essential appliances.

While it might seem like a major electrical issue, the good news is that many powerpoint problems have simple fixes. Sometimes, a tripped circuit breaker or a faulty device is to blame, while other times, the issue could point to a more serious wiring problem.

Before calling an electrician, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to identify the cause. Checking for a tripped circuit breaker, testing the outlet with another device, and inspecting for signs of damage can help you determine what to do next.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through common reasons why a powerpoint stops working − and what you can do to fix it.

Check for a Tripped Circuit Breaker

If a wall socket isn’t working, a tripped circuit breaker could be the culprit. Breakers are designed to cut off power when there’s an overload or short circuit, preventing electrical hazards. Here’s how to check:

• Locate your electrical panel – It’s usually found in the garage, basement, laundry room, or outside near the meter.
• Look for a tripped breaker – A tripped breaker will often be in the middle position (not fully “ON” or “OFF”). Some may also have a red or orange indicator.
• Reset the breaker – To fix it, firmly push the breaker to the “OFF” position first, then switch it back to “ON”.
• Test the socket – Plug in a device to see if the outlet is working again.
• Watch for recurring trips – If the breaker trips again, there may be a more serious issue like an overloaded circuit or faulty wiring.

If resetting doesn’t work or the breaker keeps tripping, it’s best to call an electrician to investigate further.

Test the Socket with Another Device

If an electrical outlet isn’t working, the first thing to do is determine whether the problem lies with the outlet itself or the device you’re trying to use.

A quick way to check is by plugging in another device, such as a lamp or phone charger, to see if it powers on. If the new device works, the original appliance might be faulty, and the powerpoint is likely fine.

If the second device also doesn’t work, the issue is likely with the outlet. Try plugging the device into a different power outlet − if it works elsewhere, that confirms the original outlet has a problem.

At this point, you may need to check for a tripped circuit breaker or a GFCI outlet reset. If the outlet is completely dead, shows burn marks, or feels warm to the touch, avoid using it and call an electrician.

Testing the powerpoint with another device is a simple and effective way to diagnose the issue before moving on to other troubleshooting steps.

Inspect for Loose or Burnt Wires

If a powerpoint isn’t working, loose or burnt wires could be the cause. Faulty wiring can prevent power from reaching the outlet and even pose a fire hazard.

Here’s how to check for signs of wiring issues:

• Turn off the power – Before inspecting the outlet, switch off the power at the electrical panel to avoid any risk of electric shock.
• Look for visible damage – Remove the outlet cover and check for burn marks, melted plastic or discoloured wiring – these are signs of overheating.
• Check for loose wires – Gently tug on the wires attached to the outlet. If any feel loose or disconnected, this could be the problem.
• Sniff for a burning smell – A lingering burnt or smoky odour near the outlet could indicate overheated wires and a potential fire risk.
• Call an electrician – If you notice any of these warning signs, avoid using the outlet and contact a licensed electrician for repairs.

Never attempt DIY electrical work unless you’re trained – handling damaged wires improperly can be dangerous.

Check for a GFCI Outlet Reset Button

The problem could be due to a tripped ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet. These special outlets are designed to shut off power if they detect a ground fault, which helps prevent electric shocks. They’re commonly found in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and outdoor areas where moisture is present.

To check if a GFCI outlet is causing the issue, look for one nearby with two buttons labelled “TEST” and “RESET”. Press the RESET button firmly to restore power. If the outlet clicks and your socket starts working again, then the problem is solved.

However, if the GFCI won’t reset or keeps tripping, there could be a more serious electrical issue at play. Multiple outlets in the same circuit may be affected, so test other powerpoints too.

If resetting the GFCI doesn’t fix the problem, or if the outlet shows burn marks, buzzing sounds or heat, it’s best to call an electrician. A malfunctioning GFCI could indicate wiring issues or a faulty outlet that needs professional attention.

Look for Signs of a Faulty Outlet

If a particular powerpoint isn’t working, the outlet itself may be faulty. Over time, outlets can wear out, overheat or suffer internal damage, making them unsafe to use.

Here are some warning signs to watch for:

• Burn marks or discolouration – Scorch marks or yellowing around the socket could indicate overheating or an electrical short.
• Cracks or loose outlets – If the faceplate is cracked or the outlet moves when you plug something in, the internal wiring could be damaged.
• Buzzing or sparking – An outlet that makes buzzing sounds or sparks when you insert a plug is a major fire hazard.
• Excessive heat – A warm or hot outlet suggests an overloaded circuit or faulty wiring inside.
• Frequent power loss – If the outlet works intermittently or only when you wiggle the plug, there could be loose connections.

If you notice any of these issues, stop using the outlet immediately and call a licensed electrician. A faulty outlet can lead to electrical fires or serious safety risks.

When to Call an Electrician

If simple troubleshooting hasn’t fixed the issue, it might be time to call a licensed electrician. Electrical problems can be dangerous, and attempting DIY repairs could put your home at risk.

Here’s when you should bring in a professional:

• The outlet is burnt, melted or discoloured – This could indicate overheating or an electrical fire hazard.
• You hear buzzing sounds or see sparks – Strange noises or visible sparks from an outlet signal a serious wiring issue.
• The breaker keeps tripping – If resetting the breaker only works temporarily or it trips repeatedly, you may have a circuit overload or a short.
• Other outlets or lights are affected – If multiple outlets or lights in the same area stop working, there may be a larger electrical problem.
• You suspect faulty or outdated wiring – Older homes may have loose, frayed, or outdated wiring that needs professional attention.

If you’re unsure about the cause of the issue, it’s always safer to call an electrician rather than risk potential electrical hazards.

Boost Your Home Safety

A power outlet that stops working can be frustrating but, in many cases, the fix is simple.

Start by checking if the circuit breaker has tripped, testing the outlet with another device, and looking for a GFCI reset button. If none of these steps restore power, inspect for signs of a faulty outlet, such as burn marks, loose wiring or unusual sounds.

While some issues can be easily resolved, others may indicate a serious electrical problem. If your outlet is sparking, overheating or causing repeated breaker trips, it’s time to call a licensed electrician. Electrical problems can be dangerous and professional help ensures your home remains safe.

By following these troubleshooting steps and knowing when to seek expert assistance, you can quickly and safely get your wall socket working again.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.