Symptoms
- Plug slides in loosely or falls out on its own
- Device loses power intermittently when the cord is bumped
- Other outlets hold plugs normally
Likely causes
- CommonWorn contact springs inside the outletYears of plugging and unplugging stretch the metal contacts so they no longer grip the prongs firmly.
- PossibleA bent or worn plug on the deviceThe prongs on the cord itself may be bent or thinner than a standard plug.
- PossibleA heavy cord pulling the plug outWeight from a bulky adapter or coiled cord can slowly work a plug loose.
- PossibleA cheap or damaged outletSome budget outlets have weaker contacts from the start.
What to do
- Try a different plug in the same outlet to see if the problem follows the outlet or the device.
- Inspect the device's plug prongs for bending or unusual thinness.
- If it's just one outlet and other plugs are also loose there, the outlet needs replacing.
- Turn off the breaker for that outlet before removing the cover plate.
- Replace the outlet with a new one, matching amperage rating (usually 15A) and connecting wires to the same terminals.
- Turn the breaker back on and test with a couple of different plugs.
- Use a cord clip or short extension if a heavy cord keeps pulling a good outlet loose.
Tools and parts
- Screwdriver
- Non-contact voltage tester
Replacement duplex outletSearch: “15 amp residential duplex outlet”
When to call a pro
Call an electrician if you're not comfortable replacing an outlet yourself, or if the wiring behind it looks damaged or old cloth-insulated.
Safety
Use caution
Switch off the breaker and confirm the outlet is dead with a voltage tester before removing the cover plate.