There are two kinds of loose power point: one that moves in the wall when you plug in, and one where plugs sit loosely and drop out. Both are worth fixing, because movement and poor contact are how connections heat up.
Ring 0421 772 661 and we'll secure or replace it and check the wiring behind.
If the outlet is warm, discoloured, cracked, sparks, or smells burnt, switch it off and stop using it. If anything is smoking or scorched, turn off the main switch if it's safe to reach and call 000 for fire. Keep children away from a damaged outlet.
Don't push a loose power point back into the wall, pack it with paper, or tape it in place. Movement behind the plate can strain the wiring, and only a licensed electrician should take the plate off.
The outlet moves in the wall. Power points are fixed to a mounting bracket, a stud or a wall box. Over time the fixings can pull out of plasterboard, crumble in old lath-and-plaster or brick, or simply loosen. Each time you push a plug in, the wiring behind flexes. That can loosen terminals and damage insulation.
Plugs fall out or wobble. The spring contacts inside an old or heavily used outlet lose their tension. The plug pins then touch only lightly, which raises resistance and heat, especially with heaters, kettles and other heavy appliances.
Switch the outlet off first and keep your fingers off the plug pins.
Lay your hand flat on the plate. If it's warmer than the wall, stop using it.
Look for cracks, gaps around the edge, brown marks or melted plastic.
If only one plug is loose, the plug may be worn. If every plug is loose, the outlet's contacts are worn.
Outlets behind beds, desks and kitchen benches get knocked and heavily used. Tell us if it powers a heater or other heavy appliance.
If several power points in the house are loose, it may be worth a broader check of their fixings and wiring.
Failed fixings. In plasterboard walls the mounting bracket can work loose; in older homes, plaster and brick around the fixing can crumble.
Worn contacts. Years of plugs going in and out, and heavy loads, wear down the spring contacts.
Furniture and leads. Heavy plugs, chargers and adaptors that hang from the outlet, or furniture pushed against plugs, lever the outlet over time.
Earlier DIY or poor fixing. Outlets that were never properly mounted come loose sooner. In older wiring, the cable behind may also be brittle, which is another reason to have it opened by an electrician.
We isolate the circuit, remove the outlet, check the terminals and cable for heat or damage, and either re-fix it securely with a suitable bracket or box, or replace it with a new power point. We test the circuit before handing back. If you'd like more outlets so plugs aren't overloaded, see power point installation.
If the outlet has stopped working, our guide to a power point not working covers the checks. If you have young children, childproof power points explains safer options.
It can be. Movement can loosen wiring behind it, and poor plug contact causes heat. Have it fixed rather than living with it.
Not safely. Removing or re-fixing a power point is electrical work for a licensed electrician in NSW.
The spring contacts inside the outlet are worn. Replacing the power point fixes it.
If the outlet itself is in good condition, re-fixing may be enough. If contacts are worn or there's any heat damage, replace it.
Yes. Extra outlets can reduce reliance on adaptors and power boards, which also helps outlets last longer.
NSW Electrical Contractor Licence 332956C · Fully insured · Since 2016 · Based in Hurlstone Park
Excellent electrician Blue Link Electrical was honest, knowledgeable, and took the time to answer my questions The work was completed quickly without rushing and everything works perfectly Will be using them
Very professional and reliable service. Blue Link Electrical were punctual, friendly, and knew exactly what they were doing. The job was completed to a high standard and the place was left clean. Highly recommend to anyone needing electrical work.
Can't fault the service from Blue Link Electrical From first contact to job completion everything was smooth and professional Quality workmanship and great attention to detail. One of the best trades experiences I've had. Make sure you do them slowly
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