Electrical Outlet Installation & Replacement
Trust Hoover Electric for Electrical Outlet Wiring
At Hoover Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we provide electrical outlet installation, replacement, and wiring in Southeast Michigan. Our experienced contractors ensure you have functional and up-to-date outlets for all the devices, electronics, and appliances in your home or business. Outdated or broken electrical outlets can cause hazards you can’t afford to ignore, such as sparks, shocks, and electrical fires.
No matter the age of your home, we can upgrade your receptacles. We also install and wire USB, smart, and ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets to improve function and safety. Our team installs new receptacles as well. Call Hoover whenever you need a licensed electrician for safe, code-compliant electrical outlet installation or replacement!
We also provide a full range of electrical services in Clinton Township, Troy, and throughout Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne Counties.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Why Choose Professional Electrical Outlet Services
Home and business owners often don’t realize the complexity of electrical outlets. It’s important to hire a professional for electrical outlet installation and replacement for the following reasons:
- Ensure Code Compliance and Safety: A licensed electrician is familiar with local building code requirements for installation. Violating a code can result in safety issues, fines, or the loss of your homeowner’s insurance.
- Avoiding Potential Risks: Do you know the difference between a hot wire and a neutral wire? Are you familiar with different wire gauges? One mistake can leave your outlet nonfunctional or cause a shock or electrical fire.
- Accurate Troubleshooting: If an outlet fails to work, sparks, has burn marks, or is warm to the touch, a professional electrician can safely evaluate it. They can then determine whether to repair or replace the receptacle or perform other electrical repairs.
- Installation of Specialized Outlets: An electrician can properly install standard and high-voltage outlets. They can also provide GFCI, USB, or smart outlets to improve electrical safety or convenience.
Why DIY Outlet Installation Is Not Worth the Risk
We cannot overemphasize the risk of DIY outlet installation. Home electrical outlets look simple but setting one up requires training and experience. Attempting any electrical work without professional knowledge carries the following risks:
- Incorrect Wiring: Incorrectly wiring an outlet can not only cause it to stop working. It also risks electrical hazards like burns, shocks, or electrocution.
- Electrical Damage: A mistake can potentially overload the circuit, while faulty wiring or connections can trigger a power outage. You may also forget about grounding, insulation, or surge protection.
- Lack of Tools and Knowledge: Electricians have various tools for testing outlets, replacing them, and ensuring safe installation. They can also troubleshoot and resolve unforeseen issues.
- Voiding Warranties: Electrical equipment and appliance warranties usually require a professional for outlet replacement services and similar jobs. Failing to hire a licensed contractor can void the warranty.
Signs You Need Outlet Installation or Replacement
Repairing or replacing an electrical outlet can restore your power and safety. The following signs mean you should call an electrician immediately:
- An outlet sparks, feels hot, or emits a burning odor.
- A receptacle is cracked, discolored, or physically damaged.
- The circuit breaker trips when an outlet is used.
- Plugs are loose or fall out easily.
- You have ungrounded two-prong outlets.
- Your current outlets aren’t rated for use with modern appliances or devices.
New Electrical Outlet Installation Services
At Hoover, we can add outlets where you don’t currently have any. Our electricians can install them in rooms with not enough outlets, or set up receptacles for a new room or outdoor space. Home renovations and electrical upgrades often require replacing two-prong outlets with three-prong outlets. You can also call Hoover for custom solutions when you need an outlet installed for a high-power appliance or EV charger.
Our Electrical Outlet Replacement Services
You must upgrade electrical outlets if your current ones are damaged, outdated, or non-compliant with modern safety requirements. Aside from improving your safety, new outlets can improve energy efficiency. A professional addresses these issues and ensures any new outlet installed is compatible with your electrical system. Standard outlets, regardless of their age or condition, can be swapped out for childproof or tamper-resistant models.
Types of Outlets We Install and Replace
We offer various options for electrical outlet installation and replacement. Nowadays, outlets are becoming smarter and more sophisticated. Here are some modern outlet solutions available to homeowners:
- USB Outlets: If your family owns lots of smartphones and tablets, these allow convenient charging without bulky adapters. Outlets with USB charging ports allow you to charge devices in any room of the house, freeing up regular electrical outlets for other appliances. They’re easy to install and can charge your devices faster.
- GFCI Outlets: Essential for kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas, GFCI outlets are required near water sources to prevent shocks, fires, and burns. They shut down automatically whenever water contacts the outlet or there’s a current imbalance. A reset button restores power after a GFCI outlet trips.
- Smart Outlets: These support remote control and automation for modern homes. With a smart outlet, you can turn lighting and appliances on and off via your smartphone or tablet or set a schedule for them to do so. Although smart outlets may cost more to install, they can help you lower your energy bills.
- Tamper-Resistant Outlets: Resembling a regular outlet, a tamper-resistant model features safety shutters inside the slots. These block foreign objects from being inserted. The shutters open only if a grounded plug is used, providing a safety option for families with young children.
- Outdoor Weatherproof Outlets: Outdoor outlets are durable solutions for patios, gardens, and garages. Most units have protective covers to prevent damage from moisture, impacts, and sunlight. They are also tamper-resistant and include GFCI protection as required by the National Electrical Code.
- 120V Outlets: These standard electrical outlets have a 120-volt wire, neutral wire, and grounding wire (preferably). Used since the early 1950s, 120V outlets are suited for basic appliances such as lamps and vacuums. However, newer appliances often require additional power from 220V or 240V outlets.
- 220V Outlets: A 220V outlet can accommodate high-powered appliances so is an effective upgrade. Some 220V outlets have three prongs but most have four prongs for safety reasons. A four-prong 220V outlet has two power lines at either side, a neutral wire at the bottom, and a grounding wire at the top.
- 240V Outlets: Electric cars, ovens, washing machines, and other large appliances require 240V outlets. These receptacles are typically installed in kitchens, laundry rooms, and garages. Modern 240V outlets contain two 120-volt wires, a neutral wire, and a ground wire.
Our Process: How We Handle Your Outlet Needs
At Hoover, we are committed to making electrical outlet installation and replacement quick and simple. Our electricians are thorough in evaluating your needs and planning/adding/replacing any outlets. Here are the steps we follow to complete your outlet installation or upgrade:
- Step 1: We visit for an initial consultation and perform a safety inspection of your existing outlets.
- Step 2: Our technicians make recommendations based on your home’s needs and electrical system.
- Step 3: High-quality products and materials are used during professional installation or replacement.
- Step 4: Our electricians perform final testing and explain the basics of outlet use and maintenance.
The Benefits of Upgrading Your Electrical Outlets
Upgrading to modern electrical outlets is an easy, affordable way to make your home more functional, safe, and code-compliant. It can also improve ease of access and convenience. Grounded and GFCI outlets protect against shock and electrocution while installing smart outlets can improve efficiency and your home’s resale value.
Replacing two-prong outlets with three- or four-prong outlets is also an effective upgrade. It allows you to add larger, more powerful appliances. Installing outlets with USB ports makes it easier to charge portable devices. Meanwhile, smart outlets provide an additional layer of control, so you can turn devices and appliances on or off via your phone or voice.
Whether you need to replace outdated/broken outlets or are interested in updated designs and functionality, our team would be happy to help.
Conclusion: Why Choose Hoover for Outlet Services?
Today’s homeowners are dependent on electricity more than ever. Modern homes have a higher electrical demand for powering lighting fixtures, electronics, and appliances. However, having electricity is not enough to power everything. You also need functional outlets meeting your home’s capacity requirements. Hoover Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling specializes in electrical outlet installation and replacement in Clinton Township, Troy, and surrounding areas. Since 1980, we’ve been trusted for our transparency, honesty, and high-quality materials and workmanship.
Contact Us for All Your Electrical Outlet Wiring Needs & More
We understand the average homeowner’s budget doesn’t include electrical repairs and upgrades. That’s why Hoover offers specials and financing options, so you don’t have to wait for emergency electrical work. Our licensed, insured electrical contractors deliver exceptional customer service with no hidden fees (with a satisfaction guarantee) throughout Clinton Township, Troy, and surrounding areas. Please contact us today to request an estimate or schedule service at your earliest convenience!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why Do Electrical Outlet Issues Occur?
The circuit breaker doesn’t have to trip for an outlet to stop working. Other causes of outlet issues include loose connections and exposed wiring that trigger a short circuit. Plugging in too many devices can overload an outlet, while faulty wiring, age, and wear and tear can contribute to outlet issues.
Can You Install New Outlets in a Room That Doesn’t Have Any?
An electrician can add outlets if your electrical system can handle the additional load. Installing new electrical outlets requires running new wiring and oftentimes a new circuit from the electrical panel.
How Do You Replace an Old or Broken Outlet?
Signs an electrical fire is occurring include sizzling sounds, burning smells, tripping breakers, hot outlets, sparks, charred wires, melted plastic, and visible flames.
What Should I Do If an Outlet Is Loose or Wobbly?
An outlet can become wobbly due to loose screws. It can be fixed by turning off the circuit breaker to the outlet, removing the faceplate, and tightening the outlet’s mounting screws. Once the outlet is tight, reinstall the cover and turn the power back on. If you can’t secure it or you aren’t comfortable with this task, call a professional.
When Should an Electrical Outlet Be Replaced?
High-quality outlets can last 15 to 25 years. However, call Hoover for electrical outlet installation and replacement if the outlet stops working, has burn marks, looks melted, feels hot, is damaged, sparks, or doesn’t hold the plug tightly.
A circuit breaker that trips repeatedly or soon after being reset is the most common wiring issue. It means a wire is overloaded, faulty, or damaged and can indicate many other electrical issues.
Aside from tripping breakers, visibly damaged, frayed, or chewed wires mean you need to call for help. Flickering, dimming, or buzzing lights; discolored or warm outlets; and burning odors can also indicate faulty wiring. Call a professional for electrical wiring repair.
Signs an electrical fire is occurring include sizzling sounds, burning smells, tripping breakers, hot outlets, sparks, charred wires, melted plastic, and visible flames.
Yes. A loose wire connection can cause current to leak from another breaker or circuit, even if the main breaker is turned off.
Aside from changing a lightbulb or resetting a breaker, you should never do any work on your electrical system. Only a trained, certified electrician has the knowledge and tools to troubleshoot and fix the problem.
Trust Hoover Electric for Electrical Outlet Wiring
Today’s homeowners are dependent on electricity in more ways than ever. From lighting fixtures to powering your electronics and appliances, electricity is necessary for modern homes. However, having electricity is not enough to power your devices. You also need functional outlets meeting the capacity requirements. Having outdated or broken outlets is a safety hazard you can’t afford to ignore. Hoover Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling specializes in electrical outlet installation in Clinton Township, Troy, and other areas across Southeast Michigan. No matter the age of your home, we can upgrade your electrical outlets to make them compatible with USB, smart, and GFCI outlets. Reach out today to request service from our licensed, certified electricians!
What Are Common Causes of Electrical Outlet Issues?
Broken or malfunctioning electrical outlets are dangerous to your home and family. Call one of our licensed, certified electricians today if you encounter any of these common electrical outlet issues:
- Short-Circuiting – If your electrical outlets have loose connections or exposed electrical wiring, it can cause a short circuit. Short circuits often lead to fires and electrocutions.
- Overloading – While you may be tempted to plug in all your devices to the same outlets using extension cords, overloading an outlet can create a fire and safety risk.
- Faulty Wiring – Installing electrical outlets and electrical outlet wiring should be left to trained professionals. Faulty electrical outlet wiring can put you and your family in jeopardy.
- Aging Outlets – Older electrical outlets may need to be replaced when they show signs of wear and tear. Consult an electrician to inspect them sooner rather than later.
Residential Electrical Outlet Types We Install and Repair
Electrical outlets used to be basic two- or three-prong affairs, but smart outlets you can control using your smart devices are becoming more popular these days. Here’s a rundown on various types of electrical outlets we can install or repair:
- USB Outlets – If your family owns a lot of smartphones and tablets, installing USB wall outlets helps you keep these devices charged without needing adapters. Outlets with USB charging ports allow you to streamline device charging in any room of the house, freeing up your regular electrical outlets for other appliances. They’re easy to install and can charge your devices faster.
- GFCI Outlets – GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. GFCI outlets are designed to protect you from ground faults and should be installed near water sources to prevent shocks, fires, burns, and more. GFCI outlets keep you safe by shutting down automatically whenever water splashes into or against the outlet. You must hit the reset button to restore power.
- Smart Outlets – Imagine being able to control your lighting and appliances without turning them on and off manually. You can control smart outlets via your smartphone or tablet. Many homeowners set their lights to turn on and off during certain hours when they’re not home. Although smart outlets may cost more to install, they can help you lower your energy bills.
- 120v Outlets – 120v outlets are your standard electrical outlets with a 120-volt wire, neutral wire, and grounding wire (preferably). Around since the early 1950s, 120v outlets are suitable for plugging in basic appliances such as lamps and vacuums. We’re often asked to upgrade older homes to 220v or 240v outlets to accommodate newer appliances requiring more power.
- 220v Outlets – 220v outlets are found throughout many modern U.S. homes that have been upgraded to accommodate additional high-powered appliances. 220v outlets may have three or four prongs, but most modern ones have four for safety reasons. A four-prong 220v outlet has two power lines at either side, a neutral wire at the bottom, and a grounding wire at the top.
- 240v Outlets – 240v outlets contain two 120-volt wires and a neutral wire. You may find three-prong 240v outlets throughout older homes, but most modern electrical outlets have four prongs and a ground wire. Electric cars, ovens, washing machines, and other large appliances require 240v outlets. 240v outlets are typically installed in kitchens, laundry rooms, and garages.
What Are Signs You May Need Outlet Repair or Replacement?
Electrical outlet repairs and replacements are sometimes needed to keep your home and loved ones safe. Any time your electrical outlets feel hot to the touch, smell like they’re burning, or exhibit sparks, something is seriously amiss, and you should call an electrician immediately. Damaged or cracked electrical outlets could be a fire hazard if exposed wiring is present. It’s also a safety hazard if your plugs won’t stay in, as this indicates your electrical outlets are significantly worn. If your home still has two-prong electrical outlets, we suggest upgrading them to three-prong outlets as soon as possible.
What Are the Benefits of Upgrading Your Electrical Outlets?
Upgrading your home’s electrical outlets is an easy, affordable way to make it feel more modern. You’ll get peace of mind replacing worn or outdated electrical outlets knowing that you’re making your home safer and up-to-code. Modern electrical outlets are designed to offer more convenience and ease of access. Considering GFCI outlets can help protect your loved ones from electrocution while installing smart outlets can help you improve your home’s resale value by making it more energy-efficient. Whether you need to replace two-prong outlets or are interested in installing outlets with USB ports, the Hoover Electric team would be happy to help.
Contact Us for All Your Electrical Outlet Wiring Needs & More
We understand that electrical repairs and upgrades are often not built into the average homeowner’s budget. That’s why Hoover offers specials and financing options, so you don’t have to wait to get any emergency HVAC, plumbing, or electrical work done. It’s no wonder we’re the preferred full-time contractors of many homeowners throughout Clinton Township, Troy, and surrounding areas. Please contact us today to request an estimate or schedule service at your earliest convenience!
