No Power to Electrical Outlet
![]() |
I have an electrical outlet that does not work: How to Repair an Electrical Outlet that has Lost Power. © By: Dave Rongey |
Outlet Power Problem
Electrical Question: I have an electrical outlet that does not work.
- I traced the electrical lines to the attic where I found a junction box.
- The white wire goes to another white wire connection and the black wire was capped off with a wire nut.
- I took the wire nut off of the black wire and connected it to other other black wires in the junction box.
- When I did that it shorted out the other lines in the junction box. I believe this box is on its own circuit.
- I know it is the last one in the line because the outlet only has two wires.
- Could the electrician possibly have connected the wires backwards?
This electrical question came from: Lon, a Homeowner from Smyrna, North Carolina.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Lon.
How to Repair an Electric Outlet that has Lost Power
Application: Lost Power to an Outlet.
Skill Level: Advanced – Best performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools, Voltage Tester or Volt Ohm Meter.
Estimated Time: Depends on the type and age of the electrical wiring and the access to the circuits and wiring to be evaluated.
Precaution: This is a project that should be performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor and typically requires specific tests of the electrical circuits.
Notice: Repairs to Home Electrical Wiring should be done according to local and national electrical codes and installing new or replacement electrical parts or equipment may require a permit and inspections.
Why an Outlet May Have Lost Power
It would be best if we focus on this specific electrical question and the events that have occurred that have lead to this condition of lost power to the outlets.
- Lon, I’m wondering if there has been any electrical work or any construction projects done at your home lately.
- The reason why I am asking this is because I suspect that the electrical cable that leads to the outlet that does not work may have been damaged between the attic electrical junction box and the outlet location.
- Generally a qualified electrician will not connect wires backwards, or leave wires disconnected.
- A close inspection of the electrical wiring in to outlet box and the cable leading to the attic should be performed, and a continuity test should be performed on the circuit in order to check the wiring.
- The reason for the short circuit will need to be discovered and the necessary repairs will be required in order to restore electricity to the outlet.
More about Troubleshooting Home Electric Wiring
You identified your project to be about Troubleshooting, so you might find this information useful:
-
Troubleshooting and Repairing Electrical Wiring
- Licensed Electrician Reveals the Secrets of Successful Electrical Troubleshooting Methods used to solve the majority of the home electrical problems and wiring failures encountered.
-
Wiring Electrical Outlets for the Home
- Home electrical wiring includes 110 volt outlets and 220 volt outlets and receptacles which are common place in every home. See how wiring electrical outlets for the home are done.
-
Electrical Wire for the Home
- Complete listing of electrical wire types and parts used for home projects with electrical code information serves as selection guidelines.
Home Electrical Junction Boxes
-
Electrical Junction Boxes for Home Wiring
- Understanding electrical junction boxes and what they are used for. Home electrical wiring is the process of installing electrical wire to a location that will serve electrical devices or an appliance. One very important component is the box where the wire will be installed. The type and size of the home wiring electrical boxes will depend upon the circuit size, application and its location.
The following may also be helpful for you:
|
Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
More articles about Lost Power to Outlet, Outlets Stopped Working and Home Electrical Wiring: |
|
« Previous | Next » |
Cable Types for Home Electrical Wiring |
Wiring a Kitchen Ceiling Light Fixture |