Devices
Outlets & Switches
Receptacles and switches are the parts of your electrical system you touch every day — and the first place wear, heat, and loose connections show up.
What we see most often
Loose or worn receptacles. When a plug falls out under its own weight, the internal contacts have relaxed. That looseness produces heat over time, so the device should be replaced rather than tolerated.
Dead outlets. A single dead receptacle is usually a symptom, not the fault itself. It can trace to a tripped GFCI protecting several outlets, a failed back-stab connection, or a break further up the circuit. We test the circuit before replacing hardware so the same problem does not return.
Scorching, buzzing, or heat. These are warning signs. Stop using the outlet, and have it inspected. Discoloration around the slots usually means arcing has already occurred.
Switches and dimmers. Switches wear out mechanically, and dimmers must be matched to the load — many flicker complaints come from a dimmer that is not compatible with the LED lamps installed later.
Power behind a mounted TV. When a television is wall-mounted, the goal is a proper receptacle and managed low-voltage routing — not an extension cord run inside the wall, which is unsafe and not permitted.
Questions we hear
Why did one outlet stop working while the rest of the room is fine?
A single dead receptacle often traces back to a tripped GFCI upstream, a loose connection at a device, or a failed receptacle. It should be diagnosed rather than simply replaced.
Is a warm or discolored outlet a problem?
Yes. Heat or discoloration at a receptacle indicates a poor connection or overload and should be inspected promptly by a professional.
Can an outlet be added where there isn't one?
Often yes, but it depends on the existing circuit's capacity and how the walls are accessible. We evaluate that on site before quoting.
Safety first
Never remove a device cover or probe inside a box to test it yourself. Receptacles can remain energized even when a nearby switch is off.
Ready when you are
Start with the Dr. Handy Assistant — it collects your details, checks live availability, and only confirms once the appointment is actually booked.