Why Kitchen Receptacles Quit Working
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Kitchen receptacles typically do not need to be replaced if they stop working. Counter top receptacles in the kitchen are protected by a GFI device such as a GFI receptacle or a GFI circuit breaker. © By: Dave Rongey |
How to Repair Kitchen Outlets
[ad#block]Electrical Repair Question: There is a receptacle in my kitchen that just quit working.
- It is connected to the one across the kitchen which still works (which I thought was strange opposite walls connected but not the ones next to it). Anyway we replaced it wiring it the same way as we took it off and it still does not work.
- any suggestions would be helpful
This electrical question came from: Cheryl, a Homeowner from Jackson, MI
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your Electrical Repair question Cheryl.
- Kitchen receptacles typically do not need to be replaced if they stop working. Counter top receptacles in the kitchen are protected by a GFI device such as a GFI receptacle or a GFI circuit breaker.
- The first two things to check would be to see if a GFI receptacle located in the kitchen counter top area is tripped, and if so simply push the reset button.
- Next is to check for a tripped circuit breaker at the electrical panel.
- The kitchen electrical circuits should be labeled. If the circuit breakers are not labeled then now would be a good time for two people to map out the circuits in your home and identify them at the electric panel.
- Another possibility may be that a GFI receptacle has stopped working and may need to be replaced.
The Following will assist you with your Kitchen Electrical Receptacles
- 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.
- Wiring Diagram GFI
- The features and benefits of GFCI outlets and receptacles will give you a clear understanding of the importance why these safety devices are required by code to help protect you and your family against accidental electrical shock hazards.
Understanding Electrical Testers
When working on home electrical wiring using voltage testers can play an important part in electrical safety. Electrical testers enable you to identify electrical circuits and help prevent the possibility of accidental electrical shock.
Types of Electrical Testers
The following may also be helpful for you:
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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
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Hi Lou
First and foremost make sure this circuit is OFF before continuing.
From what you have stated, you are on the right track. No doubt there is a loose wire, burnt connection or burnt splice at one of the outlet locations, either where the wires connect to the receptacle or a group of wires are spliced. Every once and a while the problem may be that the neutral wire of this circuit has been burnt and become disconnected back at the panel where it attaches to the neutral terminal bar. If this is the case the white insulation of the neutral wire may have discolored due to a deteriorating connection. This is easily solved by cutting off the bad area, re-stripping the wire and relocating into a clean unused terminal.
Please be aware that I do not recommended homeowners do any work in electrical panels, where experienced licensed electricians are best able to identify and make repairs.
Be Safe,
Dave
One bedroom lost all electricity today when a high intensity lamp was turned on with a burned out bulb. This lamp has been working fine for a year. The room also had a space heater plugged into an outlet which has been working without issue for 2 years. The night stands each have a lamp on them which are switched by a common toggle. The circuit breaker didn’t pop. But it is working properly because I tested it (15A). I have looked at three outlets. One where the heater was plugged in and one where the lamp was plugged in and one which is switched. There are more including the toggle outlet. Am I on the right track with my troubleshooting? I’m running out of ideas. New York