Outlet Not Working? Common Causes + When to Call a Licensed Electrician in Metro Atlanta
Finding an outlet not working can disrupt your entire day, whether it's a dead kitchen appliance, a dropped Zoom call from your home office, or a phone that didn't charge overnight. While a dead outlet is sometimes a simple fix, it can also be an early warning sign of a more serious electrical issue.
At Estes Services, we've helped Metro Atlanta homeowners diagnose and resolve electrical problems safely for over 77 years. In this guide, we'll walk you through the most common causes of outlet failure and highlight the red flags that mean it's time to call a professional.
5 Common Reasons Your Power Outlet Stopped Working
If you're asking, "Why is my outlet not working when others in the room are fine?" start with these common culprits:
1. A Tripped GFCI Outlet
Bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outdoor outlets are protected by GFCIs (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters). When one trips, it can shut off power to downstream outlets. Check nearby outlets for a Reset button.
2. A Tripped Circuit Breaker
Check your electrical panel for a breaker that's off or stuck in the middle. Flip it fully to Off, then back to On.
3. Loose or "Backstabbed" Wiring
In many older Metro Atlanta homes, outlets were wired with push-in connections rather than screw terminals. These connections loosen over time, causing outlets to fail or arc behind the wall.
4. Worn-Out Receptacles
Outlets wear out. If plugs feel loose or fall out easily, the internal contacts are worn, and the outlet needs to be replaced.
5. A Blown Fuse
Homes with older fuse boxes may lose power to a circuit when a fuse blows, cutting electricity completely to affected outlets.
Pro Tip: If a breaker trips immediately after resetting, stop. This often signals a hard short or serious overload. Repeatedly resetting it can increase the risk of an electrical fire.
Warning Signs: When a Dead Outlet Is a Safety Risk
If an outlet suddenly stops working, inspect it carefully. Turn off the breaker and call a licensed electrician immediately if you notice:
- Discoloration: Brown or black scorch marks
- Heat: The outlet or wall plate feels warm or hot
- Noise: Buzzing, popping, or crackling sounds
- Smell: A sharp, fishy, or burning plastic odor
These are signs of overheating or damaged wiring behind the wall.
Why One Outlet Not Working Is Often a Localized Problem
When one outlet is not working, but nearby outlets still have power, the issue is usually local to that electrical box. Common causes include a broken outlet tab or a wire that has loosened due to heat expansion and contraction over time.
Loose wiring can still carry current, generating heat behind the wall, sometimes enough to melt insulation or outlet housing. Our Estes licensed electricians use advanced diagnostic tools, including thermal imaging, to detect hidden hotspots before they turn into emergencies.
Full-Service Electrical Solutions for Metro Atlanta Homes
Estes Services isn't just HVAC—we're also Eaton-certified electrical experts. In addition to outlet repair and replacement, we offer:
Safety & Upgrades
- Electrical panel upgrades and replacements
- Surge protection systems
- Code corrections
Installations
- Indoor and outdoor lighting
- Ceiling fan installation
- EV charger installation
- New circuit wiring
Specialty Services
- Whole-home electrical inspections
- Smart home automation
- Advanced electrical diagnostics
Serving Metro Atlanta Since 1949
We proudly provide code-compliant electrical services throughout Metro Atlanta, including:
- Atlanta, Buckhead, and Brookhaven
- Decatur, Smyrna, and Marietta
- Alpharetta, Roswell, and Johns Creek
- Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, and Woodstock
- Buford, Dacula, and Canton
- Peachtree City and Newnan
- And many surrounding Metro Atlanta communities
Trust the Experts: It's That Easy, It's Estes
Don't gamble with your home's safety using a DIY video. Our experienced Estes electricians deliver thorough diagnostics, clear explanations, and upfront pricing—so you can make confident decisions.
If your outlet is acting up, don't wait for a spark. Call Estes Services today at (404) 362-6960 or schedule your service online to restore power safely.
