Poll of the Day > How do I fix my power outlet? my plugs keep falling out.

(+) Yeah! (+)

I suspect the slots have worn down over time(30 years untouched or more) and modern plugs are .0001cm thinner now in the days of environmental consciousness, making them just not fit in place.

to further supplement my frustrations I have two power strips with the 3 prong thing, and this outlet can only accept the normal 2 prong plug.

So, how do I fix this problem? Is it a faceplate issue? Or do I risk killing myself like frank grimes if like the inner workings need replaced. I dont even care about the 2 and 3 prong issue, I have adpators. I just need those adaptors to not constantly keep falling out of the slot on the wall.

The general quick fix (that isn't recommended by official channels) is to bend the prongs inward, pry them outward, or twist them a bit, ever so slightly to create a snug fit. The real fix would be to replace the outlet. The part is cheap, and the job doesn't take long. Just make sure the breaker for that circuit is off before working on it.

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Replacing electrical outlets is very easy. Look up some tutorials on YouTube.

Keep in mind, outlets are hooked up in one of two ways. The most common way is where the wires are hooked over screws on the sides of the outlet.

There's another way where straight wires are connected through the back of the outlet. These are quicker and easier to set up, but are awful for replacing an outlet that's been hooked up this way. Most replacement outlets you can buy are equipped with both of these.

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Always make sure you shut off power to that outlet with the circuit breaker first though. Kind of important.

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The third prong thats thicker/round-ish is a ground so you could just snip it off. Ive used plugs like that before with no issues.

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zebatov posted...

The third prong thats thicker/round-ish is a ground so you could just snip it off.

...no.
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just replace the outlet it takes like 10 minutes

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Sir Will posted...

...no.

Well I mean he isn't wrong, you technically can do that...you just shouldn't.

Install a gfci outlet so if there is a ground fault, you're protected. Otherwise if I were you, I would check to see what type of wiring you have. If it's knob and tube and it's not in good condition, it should be replaced since it's a fire hazard (especially if there's insulation around it). I had the wiring replaced in my whole house so my insurance would cover it. Wasn't too expensive given the size of the house.

Just wrap some foil around your prongs to make them a little thicker so they'll fit nice and snug.


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