Why a socket is loose
- The expanding clips in the back box have loosened.
- There is no back box — the socket was pushed straight into a hole in the wall (common in new buildings after a quick renovation).
- A plasterboard wall, and the socket has no special back box.
Why a socket does not work
- A breaker in the fuse box has tripped — check it first.
- A wire contact in the socket terminal has burned or loosened.
- Sockets are connected in a chain, and a break in one switched off the neighbouring ones.
- The socket itself is worn: the contacts have spread and the plug does not hold.
Why it is dangerous
A wobbly socket gradually loosens the wires in its terminals. A poor contact heats up: within a month there is a smell, darkening and then a spark. If the socket already sparks, do not use it until it is checked.
What I do
- Switch off the circuit, remove the socket, check the wires and terminals.
- Fix the socket firmly in place or fit a back box.
- Replace the socket with a new one if the contacts have spread or the body has darkened.
- Replace old unearthed sockets with European ones — if there is an earth wire in the wall.
- Check the neighbouring sockets on the same circuit.
How much it costs
From 50 ₾ per visit. You can buy the socket in advance — send a photo and I will suggest a suitable one. Several sockets in one visit is more convenient and better value.
FAQ
Questions and answers
Can I just push the socket back in?
If the wires are intact and not darkened — yes, but fix it firmly. Pushing it back "as it was" is not worth it: it will fall out again and loosen the contact.
Several sockets in a room do not work — is it serious?
Check the breaker first. If it is on, most likely a contact has loosened in one socket of the chain. It is usually found and fixed in one visit.
Will you replace a socket with a double one or one with USB?
Yes, if it fits the back box and the circuit can take the load.
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