#dead outlet

So, you’ve plugged in your MacBook charger and you’re ready to have a productive day of Netflix and coffee. Today turns out to not be that day. Your outlet seems to not be charging your MacBook and you are freaking out because you need to know if Meredith and Derek Shepard end up together or if he ends up with his ex-wife again. Here a few ways to fix this problem in no time.

 Light Switch

We are all guilty of this; it is a common mistake to turn off the light switch that controls the fan and the outlet. This will be a forever issue with modern homes that we all tend to overlook.

 Did the Breaker Trip?

GFCIs are common in rooms where water may come in contact with the outlet. They protect you from being electrocuted if water does near the outlet. These outlets are in kitchens and bathrooms and other areas where water and moisture are common. If the breaker on the GFCI outlet tripped, you will see one of two buttons sticking out. There is a RESET button and a TEST button. The RESET button will be sticking out like a sore thumb, it will be hard to miss. You may need to check the other outlets that have a GFCI as they could be connected.

 Breaker Panel

There are several circuits running throughout your home so it is possible that a circuit has tripped. Go ahead and locate your circuit breaker. It’s usually located in your garage or outside in the backyard. If you see any switch that is in between ON and OFF, switch it to the OFF position and then back to the ON position. If this neat trick worked, then congratulations! You performed a basic task of an electrician.

 These tips should have sufficed in getting that outlet to be working again. If you did not realize that the light switch was off and you are sweating bullets, do not worry- you are not the only one who does this and will not be the last person to do this, either. Also, make sure to hit RESET on any GCFI buttons that are sticking out. This is often overlooked and worries people because most do not know what those two buttons are for. Lastly, if you want to pretend to be a professional check the circuit breaker for a tripped circuit.

Keep us in mind for any electrical problems you cannot resolve yourself. Smith Electric & Associates is located in Mobile, AL. We are licensed to operate in Alabama, Mississippi, Florida and Georgia and have been proudly serving the Gulf Coast since 1992. Call us for 24-hour emergency service at 251-471-4723! Visit us online at www.SmithElec.com and connect with us on Facebook and Twitter!