Why an Outlet Circuit Turns On and Off

Why does an outlet cut out and then it comes back on? How to Repair Outlet Circuit Problems, Common Receptacle Outlet Problems and How to Fix Them. © By: Dave Rongey

Electrical Wiring Video Home Electrical Wiring Videos about this Topic and More Check out my YouTube Channel, and Subscribe!

Learn more with my Home Electrical Video Course: Basic Home Electrical Wiring by Example

Electrical Outlet Circuit Problem
Electrical Question: Why does an outlet cut out and then it comes back on?

I have this outlet that has a Yamaha or Bose home theater receiver that when I raise the volume below -30 dB, the power in the outlet blows the circuit. The receiver is 400 watts.

• I switch them from time to time, but they are never plugged in at the same time.
• The Bose will cut the outlet at about the same volume.
• The outlet will cut but then about 30 seconds later, it comes back on, the circuit never trips, even after I check.
• I do have a dehumidifier on the same line, and I think that it blew the circuit and permanently damaged the line.
•  The dehumidifier has tripped the circuit but the problem was gone after I turned the dehumidifier off.
• The outlet persists to cut out with the dehumidifier unplugged.

This electrical troubleshooting repair question came from: Andrew, a Homeowner from Long Island, NY.

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical troubleshooting question Andrew.

How to Repair Outlet Circuit Problems

Application: Troubleshooting an Outlet Circuit.
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.

Common Receptacle Outlet Problems and How to Fix Them

• Inspecting Outlets
  This circuit should be turned off and then all of the outlets on this circuit would need to be removed so that the electrical wiring can be inspected which will no doubt revel a loose or deteriorated connection or a bad splice.
• Heavily Used Outlets
  Special attention should be given to the outlet where the dehumidifier is plugged into and the outlet in the surrounding areas.
• Quick Connect Outlet Problem
  If the outlets have quick connect wiring where the wires are pushed into the back of the outlets then there may be a connection that has deteriorated.
• Replacing and Repairing Burnt Wiring
  If this is the case then the outlet will need to be replaced and the wiring repaired as needed.
• Connecting to Screw Terminals
  The quick connect feature should not be used where high watt devices are used such as space heaters and dehumidifiers.
• Pig Tailed Wire Splices
  Instead the individual wires should be pig-tailed or spliced so that the circuit does not floe thorough the outlets.

More about Wiring Outlet Circuits and Repairs

• Circuit Wiring
• Electrical Outlets

Wiring Electrical Outlet 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.

For more information about Outlet Wiring
Outlet Wiring

Repair Electrical Wiring

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.