Reusable Outlet Covers For Painting? The 25 Correct Answer

Wax the back edges with a candle. Tighten only as much as necessary.

If in the future a cover plate does not fall off after removing the screws, use a knife to score around its perimeter. Scoring goes a long way in preventing paint from being pulled off with the plate.

Some things are a painful eyesore around the house, and while they may be quite small, you can’t help but notice them. Cracked ceilings, scuff marks on floors, a noisy plumbing system, and poorly painted outlets can drive homeowners insane.

The good news is that these items can be repaired. You don’t have to spend a fortune to save yourself from these annoying problems. As always, there is a right way and a wrong way. Before you dive in and attempt to pull out an overpainted outlet to clean it, it’s a good idea to learn the proper procedure.

Why are painted sockets unsafe?

Contrary to popular belief, painting outlets and then using them is unsafe. If you ever find yourself near one with a brush in hand, be careful not to apply a layer of paint over it. Adequate protection is required to keep the paint from getting close.

In addition, be sure to protect the sockets and replace the painted ones.

Though fairly simple, outlets still have a wiring system within them. Once the paint breaks through the exit slots, it dries and forms a layer where it shouldn’t be. This prevents certain plugs from making full contact with the metal parts they are designed to power.

The layers of paint in the sockets heat up every time you plug something in. It might seem like a harmless little thing to worry about, but a painted outlet can damage your devices and cause problems in your home wiring system. It can also put you and your family members in danger.

Painted sockets need to be replaced

Instead of putting your effort into fixing the problem, consider replacing the outlets with new ones.

Cleaning a painted outlet is a job for an electrician. Even they will tell you that it is a lost cause and that you should get new ones. The great thing about outlets is that they’re inexpensive, so this little DIY project won’t cost you a fortune.

It’s worth the effort and you’ll never have to look at those ugly sockets again.

How do I remove a painted socket?

In most cases, sockets with a layer of paint can be problematic to replace. When painting an outlet, people also add a layer of paint to the screws that hold it. This unintentional action narrows the outlets and makes them more difficult to remove.

To safely remove the outlet, you must use a proper tool. Screwdrivers can be very helpful here, but if the screws are sealed with paint you may have trouble loosening them.

Using paint thinners in this case can be dangerous. Any type of liquid that gets into the slots can cause an electric shock, so you need to be extra careful with this process.

If you don’t feel handy, it’s best to contact your electrician and have a professional do it for you.

Order conveniently from an online catalogue

That’s the fun part. While replacing a painted outlet might seem problematic by now, keep the price in mind. You’ll never have to look at an ugly socket again. Outlets come in all shapes and sizes and you don’t have to rely on the classic appearance. Browse through an online catalogue, choose a color you like and decide on a new interesting shape.

Now that you know how unsafe painted outlets can be, you should take immediate action to replace them. Keep this in mind if you are moving to a new place or if you decide to give your walls a fresh coat of paint.

Gray switches come in a variety of functions and forms – from dimmers to toggles, duplex to corded inserts – and are the best choice for more complex lighting installations.

Stainless Steel: They look great with stainless steel switch plates and outlet covers.

Aluminum: If you’re going for an industrial look in a NYC loft and you’ve chosen gray electrical appliances, combine them with aluminum covers. This looks great in any industrial setting including a workshop or garage. It has also become a very popular look in rustic styled homes lately.

Polished Chrome: For a retro look, combine gray switches with polished chrome plates (shown). This is ideal for a diner themed kitchen or a motorcycle garage. Interestingly, chrome can also be used to complete a modern interior. Combine gray with chrome in a modern bathroom with a glass tile backsplash.

Mirrored Switch Plates: Many bathroom vanities with full-wall mirrors look best when mirrored switch plates cover gray outlets.

Neutral Decor: If your walls, carpet, or countertops are gray, you can maintain a neutral look with gray outlets. Perfect if you don’t want to use them as a decorative accent but want to blend into your decor.

Concrete Countertops: Poured cement can really transform a kitchen or bathroom. This look works best with white walls and trendy open shelves. Gray light switches pair well with cement kitchen countertops, especially those with a satin finish.

Gray Home Decor: Gray on gray is a trending look for homes in 2016. Particularly popular in bedrooms, where homeowners want to create calm, uncluttered spaces that encourage rest and relaxation. Keep the look going with gray switches and matching cover plates.

Gray Cabinets: Kitchens across the country are being remodeled with gray cabinets, white and gray marble counters, and white subway tile backsplashes. Many bathrooms also follow this example with gray lacquered cabinets by Benjamin Moore. One way to complete the look is to update your electrical devices to gray as well.

In the garage: Whether you’re in your garage tuning bikes, changing your oil, or fixing old cars, greasy fingers can lead to dirty, stained switches. Replacing white switches with gray ones in your garage will greatly reduce the appearance of stains.

Plastic switch plate covers usually come in two colors: glossy white and ivory, which often just looks like a muddy version of white. These aren’t the best colors to highlight a designer paint job, and some homeowners spend tens of times the price of generic plastic panels to get more interesting ones. Painting your existing panels is a money-saving option; For best results, avoid beginner painting mistakes.

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Painting plastic outlet and switch covers Credit: Halfpoint/iStock/GettyImages See more photos

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take her down

A common beginner mistake is to leave the panels in place and paint them when you paint the wall. This is a recipe for streaks and other defects, and if you do you may be making a second mistake by not scratching and priming first. Taking the electrical covers off before painting is a simple procedure that removes a screw or two and allows you to paint the underlying drywall while you paint the rest of the wall.

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sanding and priming

Prepare each panel for painting by rolling up a strip of masking tape, applying the tape to the panel, and then taping the panel to a piece of newspaper. Now the plate stands still without having to hold it. Before gluing the switch plates to newspaper, clean each by soaking them in a solution of 1/2 cup trisodium phosphate per gallon of water and scrubbing with a scouring pad. This will etch the plastic while removing dirt and scuffs. After the panels are dry and glued in place, sand each panel with 220-grit sandpaper to roughen the plastic even more; Then spray a coat of primer from a spray can. The primer is a necessity; Without them, you will find that your paintwork needs frequent touch-ups.

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Painting a base coat

You can brush, spray, or even roller the paint onto the electrical panels. Spraying from an aerosol can is quick and easy and provides a smooth, glossy finish. Applying the paint with the same tools used to paint the wall provides a texture that better suits the wall. You may prefer a texture if you want to mix and match the panels. Since the panels will stick to newspaper, use long, even brush strokes, starting behind one end of a panel and ending behind the other end. There is no need to start or end a stroke in the middle of the plate.

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paint pattern

One way to decorate your plates is to place a stencil over the primer and spray on a second color. You can repeat this process with different stencils and colors to create layered, multicolored patterns. An alternative is to paint designs with an artist’s brush that depict flowers, stars, gargoyles, or anything else you fancy. Whether using stencils or a brush, allow the primer to dry first and then coat the panel with a coat of clear varnish to protect the design once dry. Save a small amount of paint for the screws and touch up with an artist’s brush when you reattach the panels.

How to paint electrical switch plates

How to paint electrical switch plates

Match your electrical switches and outlet panels to your wall color. This article explains the proper techniques and “tips” for painting electrical panels.

Many households have white or beige outlets and switch covers. This can be unattractive if your walls are painted in color. Who would want a brilliant white plastic switch plate as an eye-catcher in a beautifully illuminated or colorful decor?

Almost any wall panel can be painted, even your thermostat. Paint them ~ but do it right!

The following is a step-by-step description of the necessary features needed to paint your socket and switch panels and achieve a quality end result.

Improper techniques can cause your paintwork to blister, peel or chip and look awful!

security information

It is very likely that you will use spray paint. It is important to have good ventilation [fan] and ALWAYS wear a respirator.

security warnings

1. Always read the labels, so many

Oil paints, stains, lacquers and varnishes are extremely toxic.

2. Keep out of the reach of children.

3. For your own safety, always work in ventilated areas. Allow fresh air to circulate.

4. Wear protective equipment including gloves, safety goggles and respirator. Always wear appropriate protective equipment on all exposed parts of the body, especially hands and eyes.

5. Leave the work environment regularly for fresh air.

6. Many products are highly flammable and combustible. NEVER WORK NEAR HEAT SOURCES and DO NOT SMOKE while working with these products.

7. All solvents should be correct

dispose of at your local facility.

8. Fumes are harmful. They can affect the brain or nervous system and cause dizziness, headaches or nausea. Reports have linked repeated and prolonged occupational overexposure to solvents to permanent damage to the brain and nervous system. Always follow manufacturer’s recommended use found on all labels.

9. Rag Disposal: Soak soiled rags and waste in a closed metal container filled with water immediately after use.

10. Oil/alkyd based products: paints, primers, varnishes and stains. These products contain petroleum based solvents. Keep away from heat and flame. Avoid breathing fumes or spray by opening doors and windows, or use other means of ventilation during application and drying. If you experience headache, watery eyes, or dizziness, move to fresh air or wear respirator (NIOSH/Msha TC 23C or equivalent) or vacate area. Avoid contact with skin. Do not smoke or use near an open flame.

Inexpensive respirators cost about $26.00 at your local hardware store.

I recommend a NIOSH/MSHA TC-23C-1614 approved respirator that will protect you from organic vapors, paint fumes, pesticides, dusts and mists.

What you need for this project:

There are several tools for this project to help you learn how to properly paint electrical switch plates.

1. 220 grit sandpaper

2. Zinsser Cover Stain Oil Based Primer – spray paint

3. Brush

4. Piece of cardboard

5. Flathead screwdriver

6. Electrical Wall Plate Covers and Screws

7. Wall color – colorful

Common mistakes:

1. Do not sand before priming.

2. Skipping the priming step.

3. Do not remove dust from covers before priming or painting.

4. Painting the electrical switch or socket.

5. Not letting your primer or paint dry properly.

6. Sanding or painting the wall panel while it is attached to the wall.

Pick a spot to paint those wall coverings. Lay a tarp on a table or floor.Prep: TIP – cut open a large cardboard box and use as a work surface and to control the spray from your spray can. 1. Remove all of your wall panels including phone and cable panels. Thermostats can also be painted. To do this, use a screwdriver. Not removing the panel from the wall is a beginner’s step and will not result in a professional, quality job. There is also a risk of getting paint into the switch or socket mechanism. TIP – If you don’t paint the screws, put them back in their place in the socket or keep them safe in a plastic bag for future reference. 2. Lightly abrade the surfaces of the wall panels with 22 grit sandpaper. Sand the entire surface that will be visible when the panel is hanging on the wall – including the edges. 3. Sanding is important to de-shine the plastic and create etches to allow the primer to adhere well. Skipping this step can cause your paint to fail prematurely. 4. After sanding, wipe or wash the panels with a damp cloth to remove sanding dust. 5. Clean the area and prepare it for priming. Failure to do this step will create bumps and bubbles under your primer. Primer: Spray all panels with oil based spray primer until fully coated. Don’t skip the primer as your paint may not adhere properly or may not cover well. 1. Work in a ventilated area. 2. Shake the can well before use – shake the can during this process. 3. Hold the can 20 to 25 cm away from the wall panels. 4. Spray in an area where the primer “overspray” will not damage anything. Use a cardboard box to catch overspray. 6. Avoid overspraying and causing dripping or running in the primer. 7. After the primer has dried you can apply a second coat if you haven’t achieved full coverage. Several thin layers are ALWAYS better than one thick layer – avoid dripping! TIP – Don’t spray too close or too much! TIP – Test your spray can on cardboard to see how the primer comes out. Sometimes new nozzles stutter at first and need to be tested for a few seconds before they start working. 8. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. If you don’t wait for the primer to dry properly, your paint may fail. Sanding Between Coats: If you’re looking for perfection, I recommend sanding between the base coat and top coat. 1. Use 200 to lightly sand the wall panels. Concentrate on removing any bumps or bubbles. 2. Sand in one direction and do not sand too aggressively as scratches will show through the top coat of paint. 3. After sanding, wipe or clean the wall plate to remove sanding dust. Not doing this step will create bumps and bubbles under your paint. To paint electrical switch plates: Painting 1. Using a good quality brush, apply paint to the wall plate. 2. If holding the panel – paint the edges first. 3. Apply only enough color to achieve complete and even coverage. 4. Apply paint to the entire wall panel. When you’ve completely covered the wall panel in paint, finish with long, smooth brush strokes in the same direction. 5. Brush from one end of the cover to the other side. TIP – Don’t delete the actual switch or outlet. Paint ingress into an electrical mechanism can be dangerous and prevent the electrical component from working properly. 6. Wipe up any drips with your brush or a rag. 7. Gently lay the wall plate cover aside to dry. TIP – If you leave your fingerprints when you set the cover down, simply take your brush and brush lightly from end to end to remove the print. 8. Let dry. 9. If additional paint coverage is required, you can slightly sand this layer, remove dust and apply a second one in the same way. 10. Allow to dry for 24 hours before wall mounting. Painting the Screws: Painting the screws is easy. You will need a piece of cardboard or Styrofoam for this. 1. Put all the screw threads into the box or styrofoam first, leaving the screw head exposed. 2. Space the screws about 1 inch apart. 3. Slightly sand the screw head 4. Remove dust 5. Apply primer 6. Allow to dry 7. Apply colored lacquer 8. Allow to dry.

Some of the most common electrical safety hazards include outlets that:

Spark

Have visible burn marks or smell of smoke

Make buzzing or popping noises

feel hot

Attracted ants and pests

Are obsolete and need to be replaced

Are not weatherproof

Are exposed and accessible to children

In these circumstances, it is important to consider the risk of electric shock and fire, and to safely have the outlet repaired or replaced by a licensed electrician.

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The risk of electrical fire and shock from defective or improperly working electrical outlets is real and cannot be ignored. According to the US Fire Administration, about 24,000 electrical fires were reported in the two years prior to 2016, causing an estimated 310 deaths, 850 injuries, and $871 million in property damage. About 12 percent of those fires were caused by outlets and sockets.1

Sockets not working? It could be a lot more serious

Do you have one or more outlets in your home that aren’t working that might concern you or pose an electrical hazard to you and your loved ones? Delaying the inspection and replacement of outlets, using them incorrectly, or ignoring the problem can lead to unintended and dire consequences. Protect your home and family by taking electrical outlets seriously. Below are warning signs and steps you can take to fix damaged, bad, or unsafe electrical outlets in your home.

Extension cords are a great tool for various uses, but they are designed for temporary use. Be careful not to overload an extension cord or outlet. Check your power cords, if they are cracked or damaged, replace them. Don’t try to fix them.” — Ronald Cottrell, Assistant Fire Chief, Brentwood, MO

Can sockets break?

Sockets can and will go bad and fail. The age and type of outlet can be an important factor, especially in older homes that need to be upgraded by moving from 2-prong to 3-prong outlets or converting to GFCI outlets. Faulty wiring can play a role when outlets go bad, especially when backstab wiring (an acronym for securing wires) causes loose connections, outlet failures, and additional hazards. Consult an experienced electrician if you are unsure of the cause of the outlet failure.

Electric shock from sockets

Sockets are high voltage power sources. Because electricity moves very quickly, the initial connection can sometimes cause a very small spark until all the electrons move freely to provide electricity. This is usually considered normal if it happens occasionally when plugging or unplugging a device.

The body, being mostly water, is of course a strong conductor of electricity. Electrocution can result if the body comes into direct contact with electricity. Even nonfatal shocks, many of which result in injury and emergency room visits, occur approximately 30,000 times each year.2

The greatest risk of being electrocuted from an outlet: children inserting their fingers or a metal object such as a paper clip, fork, or spoon into the outlet. Keep outlets covered when not in use!

How to childproof outlets – steps to take

The most effective safety measures your family can take to create baby-safe outlets and reduce the risk of electrocution come from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC):3

Buy safety covers for all unused outlets

Have an electrician check outlets and switches to avoid unsafe wiring and risk of electric shock. If the outlets are hot, check that the devices are not overloading the outlet

If all electrical plugs do not fit securely into the outlets, replace the outlet

Install shields on all outlets to cover all wiring and reduce the risk of electric shock

Sockets spark

The US Fire Administration states that sparks, embers, or flames from control gear account for approximately 2 percent of electrical fires.4 The main causes of sparks from an outlet include:

Water Damage – Can water in an electrical outlet cause a fire? Absolutely. Water in an outlet is very dangerous. Keep water away from your outlets.

– Can water in an electrical outlet cause a fire? Absolutely. Water in an outlet is very dangerous. Keep water away from your outlets. Short Circuits – If an abnormal connection occurs in your outlet, sparks can occur.

– If an abnormal connection occurs in your outlet, sparks may occur. Overloading an outlet – Be aware of the circuits available for your outlet. Most updated household circuits have a maximum load of 15 or 20 amps (1800 or 2400 watts). Plugging in more can cause power interruptions, sparks, and even electrical fire.

– Be aware of available circuits for your outlet. Most updated household circuits have a maximum load of 15 or 20 amps (1800 or 2400 watts). Plugging in more can cause power interruptions, sparks, and even electrical fire. Obsolete outlets – Some older homes have not upgraded from older outlets. When this happens, there is a risk of units becoming detached, wires snapping, or other faults that could cause sparking. It’s also probably time to change the sockets from 2 prong to 3 or GFCI sockets if you haven’t already done the update.

– Some older households have not upgraded from older outlets. When this happens, there is a risk of units becoming detached, wires snapping, or other faults that could cause sparking. It’s also probably time to change the sockets from 2 prong to 3 or GFCI sockets if you haven’t already done the update. Improper Repairs – Quick fixes and DIY repairs are not recommended for outlet problems where the risk of sparking could increase when repairing faulty outlets.

If any of the above occurs, it’s time to call an experienced electrician who can confidently assess the next steps for your outlets and wiring. It can be as simple as replacing the outlet, or sometimes additional rewiring to bring the property up to safe outlet standards.

Any outlet that sparks, pops, has burn marks, or feels hot to the touch should be checked by your local fire department to ensure the safety of all occupants and the building itself. Those outlets should then be replaced…all electrical work should only be performed by a qualified electrician.” – Ronald Cottrell, Assistant Fire Chief, Brentwood, MO

What to do if a socket is working?

If you find yourself in a situation where your outlet is emitting sparks, it’s best to be safe. The recommended actions in this case: Move to avoid further danger and damage

Turn off the circuit breaker associated with the affected outlet

Disconnect all devices connected to the spark outlet

Call a licensed electrician to check the outlet

Replace outlets with a GFCI

A top recommendation for avoiding electrical outlet sparking, electrocution, or electrocution is to upgrade your outlets to a residual current device (GFCI). Simply put, GFCI sockets were created to protect adults and children from electric shock. How do you achieve this? By continuously monitoring the amount of current flowing through the circuit. If at any point there is a power interruption (such as a curling iron or hair dryer falling into a water-filled sink or bathtub), the GFCI is designed to cut power to the outlet, potentially reducing the risk of electrocution or electrocution eliminates electrocution.

If a household has older outlets that only have two-prong outlets, only two-prong cords should be used in that outlet. Never force a three-prong cord into a two-prong outlet. These outlets can easily be overloaded by using an extension cord or adapter, which can quickly fail. Considering replacing these outlets should be a priority.” — Ronald Cottrell, Assistant Fire Chief, Brentwood, MO

Addressing a burned outlet and plug

Brown or black spots on outlets are usually a sign of a blown outlet. If you see black or charred spots on your outlet, smell any smell of burning near your outlets, immediately turn off the power at the circuit breaker and contact a certified and licensed electrician who knows how to safely repair a blown outlet .

What Causes a Burnt Socket?

Black charred spots resulting from a burned outlet are most commonly traced to arcing. Arcing occurs when parts of your outlet overheat, and it happens when a metal part in the outlet becomes damaged or comes loose. It’s a very serious problem and can even happen if a simple screw that holds the wiring comes loose. This, in turn, will cause the plastic around the outlet to heat up and melt, possibly leading to an electrical fire. You must call an electrician immediately.

Socket is buzzing – what’s going on?

When you hear a buzzing noise coming from an outlet, it almost always indicates that a connection has come loose or you have a bad outlet. The hum itself is actually the alternating current you hear. If you are an experienced electrician, you will often try to tighten the socket connections behind the wall plate. It’s usually a sign that you need to repair or replace an outlet.

What does a hot socket mean?

A warm or hot to the touch outlet means something is not working properly. This may not warrant an immediate call to a licensed electrician, but should be investigated and corrected. Some common causes of a hot outlet include:

Using AC/DC Transformers – Laptops and other devices that use transformers to convert electrical energy for use, and the process can sometimes heat up the outlet. In this case, perform a test by unplugging the device. If your outlet is still hot after an hour or so, this is often a sign of a bigger problem and you should call an electrician.

– Laptops and other devices that use transformers to convert electrical energy for use, and the process can sometimes heat up the outlet. In this case, perform a test by unplugging the device. If your outlet is still hot after an hour or so, this is often a sign of a bigger problem and you should call an electrician. Excessive use of devices plugged into outlets – More devices require more power, and more power means more heat. Try moving devices to other available outlets.

– More devices need more power, and more power means more heat. Try moving devices to other available outlets. Damaged Outlets – Outlets wear out and deteriorate, and a hot outlet can mean the outlet is having trouble controlling the flow of electricity, leading to heating.

– Sockets wear out and go bad, and a hot socket can mean that the socket is having trouble controlling the flow of electricity, causing it to heat up. Power strip and extension cord overloading – Any device that you plug into an outlet requires a certain amount of electricity to power it. When using extension cords, you may require more power than the circuit can safely supply.

– Every device that you plug into an outlet requires a certain amount of electricity to power it. When using extension cords, you may require more power than the circuit can safely supply. Space heater units and other high power appliances – The CSPC recommends the following: “Use special high power extension cords for high wattage appliances such as air conditioners, portable electric heaters and freezers.”4 Most space heaters come with warnings never to plug the appliance into a power strip and instead, plug directly into the wall outlet. Failure to follow this warning can cause some equipment to overheat and melt, and in some cases, cause an electrical fire.

Popping noise from the socket – what is causing this cracking?

If you hear your outlet making a popping or crackling noise, take immediate action by turning off power to the affected outlet at the circuit board and calling a qualified electrician to check the outlet. This popping sound is almost always the sound of an electrical spark and can cause an outlet to burn out and start a house fire. Keep in mind that the popping sound may not be continuous. It might start for a while and then go away. Nonetheless, whenever you hear your outlet popping or crackling, the situation should be taken seriously.

Can sockets be painted over?

As long as the outlet panel covers are fitted correctly, you can often paint over the outlet. However, it is not really recommended. Instead, tape off the outlet and avoid painting over it. Avoid clumps of paint that can potentially clog the outlet port. This can tempt some to force a plug’s blades into the outlet, which can result in damage, chipped paint getting into the wiring area where it can heat up, and loose wiring scenarios that can become dangerous.

Bugs or ants in sockets

Ants and other insects sometimes congregate in an electrical outlet. Chewing through electrical wires can cause a short circuit. They also frequently build nests in tight and hidden spaces like this one. If you notice a buildup of bugs or ants in your outlets, turn off the power on your circuit board. You will most likely need to call an insect or pest control service to deal with the ants and you should contact an electrician to inspect any wiring and outlet damage.

Never use an extension cord with a heater or appliance, plug it directly into a wall outlet. Have an electrician install extra wall outlets where you need them. If you are in any doubt about the safety of an outlet, consult a qualified electrician for inspection and/or repair.” – Ronald Cottrell, Deputy Fire Chief, Brentwood, MO

Maintenance of outdoor sockets with covers and weather protection

Rain, snow, or excessive moisture, even from morning dew, can damage outdoor outlets and, in some cases, create fire hazards. You should use a “weatherproof cover while in use” and ensure that outlets not in use are sealed. Your outdoor outlets should be connected to a GFCI to avoid electric shock, electrical fire hazard and electrocution.

Do you have further questions about socket safety or repairs? Contact our licensed and certified electricians to address your important safety concerns.

Other related electrical fire hazards

Electrical outlets aren’t the only potential fire hazard at risk, if you have faulty wiring, damaged electrical panels, outdated lighting fixtures, or defective surge protectors you may be at much greater risk of an electrical fire. Be sure to perform regular maintenance and inspections to prevent potential problems. Many trusted electricians offer protection plans and regular maintenance packages to prevent major problems. Don’t think your electrical systems are safe, make sure they are inspected by a professional!

Frequently asked questions about sockets

✅ Are outlets safe? Sockets channel immense amounts of energy for use as required. They pose a very real risk of damage if not used properly or not properly maintained, repaired and replaced when problems arise. Consult a licensed electrician to safely power your outlets. ✅ What are the safety sockets called? Residual current device (GFCI) sockets are designed for safety. A GFCI outlet is designed to protect people from electrocution by monitoring the current flowing through the circuit and shutting it off if it comes into contact with water or other identifiable hazards. Click here to learn more here. ✅ Can a bad socket cause a fire? Yes, older outlets or outlets with faulty wiring can create sparks and lead to an electrical fire. It’s also important not to remove the ground portion of a 3-prong cord to fit a 2-prong outlet. This can quickly lead to overheating and fire.

1. [www.usfa.fema.gov – Statistics]↩

2. [https://safeelectricity.org – Avoid electrical fires in your home]↩

3. [https://www.cpsc.gov – Home Electrical Safety Checklist]↩

4. [https://www.cpsc.gov – Faulty Power Strips and Surge Protectors]↩

Other helpful resources from Hoffmann Brothers

Childproofing your sockets

My two oldest children were born pretty close together, so there’s a time in my life that’s mostly diapers, bottles, and very, very little sleep. However, there are a few memories that stand out – like when they did particularly dirty things, or particularly delightful things, or, in my daughter’s case, particularly dangerous things. My eldest daughter has always been curious, always wanting to know how things work and why. One day I was feeding the one year old while she (2 years old) was playing with her toys on the floor – at least I thought so.

I suddenly realized that she had been quiet for a while, which is usually trouble for a mother. I left the baby in his high chair and rushed into the living room. There my daughter sat in front of a socket with the keys from my purse, holding two of them parallel to each other and preparing to plug both into the socket. Before I could think, I screamed, “No!” and interrupted her just in time. I don’t want to think about what might have happened if I hadn’t caught her at that precise moment, but you’d better believe that we installed every safety device possible on every outlet in the house afterwards.

If you are a mother, father, aunt, uncle, grandparent or caregiver of a young child, consider this: there are sockets on almost every wall of the house, they are usually close to the ground and they look like two little faces. These are all reasons why little buggers might be attracted to your home’s electrical outlets. The easy accessibility and the high risk to the little ones make it a major household risk. But the good news is that protecting them is relatively easy and inexpensive. Below is a list of options for childproofing your home’s outlets, ranging from about $6 total to about $15 per outlet.

TAMPER-RESISTANT SOCKET: $4-20 PER SOCKET In 2008, the National Electrical Code (NEC) was updated to mandate tamper-resistant outlets (TRRs) in all new and remodeled homes. According to the National Fire Protection Association, TRRs are the most effective way to prevent electrical outlet-related injuries. The NFPA also reports that every year in the United States, 6-12 children die from severe shock and approximately 2,400 children are injured from shock or burns from sticking objects into an electrical outlet. So the NEC started requiring TRRs in homes to protect children. How They Work: TTRs have spring-loaded latches that seal the contact openings, or slots, of the sockets. When a plug is inserted into a socket, both springs are compressed and the latches then open, allowing the metal pins to make contact to create an electrical circuit. Because both springs must be compressed at the same time, the latches will not open if a child attempts to insert an object into just one contact opening and there will be no contact with electricity. (nfpa.org) So start by making sure your home has these child-safe outlets. If they don’t, they’re relatively easy to install yourself. In addition, you can add almost unlimited functionality to these sockets. They are equipped with optional USB ports with high-speed charging, LED guide lights with automatic sensors, and GFCI functionality. Here is a video link that explains how to replace your outlets yourself. If you’re yet to install new outlets, the following are additional ways you can keep your little ones safe.

ROLL OF TAPE: APPROX. $6

If you need an instant solution to your outlets, or want an inexpensive, temporary solution while you’re shopping for outlet covers, it’s as easy as simply masking off outlets that aren’t in use. One roll should cover every low-lying socket in the house. Covering them with duct tape will make them inaccessible and less appealing to a curious toddler. You can also use tape if you want it to stick a little better; However, duct tape can leave a sticky residue on your outlets and walls.

OUTLET COVERS: $5-14 This is the easiest way to keep little things from plugging little things into outlets. They are cheap, relatively invisible and also relatively difficult to remove from the socket. This can be a bit of a hassle when you need to use a protected outlet, but it means little ones are protected too. But beware: These covers only work if the socket is relatively new. If you have an older, looser socket, these may not stay in. If the outlet doesn’t hold a plug, it won’t hold a cover. And if your covers fall out or can be pulled out easily, at that point they can become a choking hazard.

EXHAUST COVERS

An option you might also consider is a full outlet cover or bait plate. It’s a solid piece of plastic that can be painted to match the walls and provides a solid cover for the outlet. No tools are required for installation and it takes all curiosity out of the socket. It just looks like a blank slate.

DELUXE SLIP LID: PRESS-FIT $7 FOR 8; CAP $11 FOR 24 Press-In Outlet Caps work similar to child resistant prescription bottles. You must press both sides of the cover at the same time to remove the cover. Easier for adults to remove than the standard rounds, they add difficulty for little fingers. They’re larger and therefore more obtrusive, but the convenience makes up for the bulk.

Lockable socket covers look very similar to standard flat socket covers, but each has a small keyhole on the front. This makes it impossible for children to get to the socket without a key. However, if the key is ever lost, it can mean some frustration.

COVER PLATES FOR OUTPUTS: APPROX. $4 FOR 1 OR $14 FOR 6 Instead of getting a contraption that slips over your outlets, you can upgrade the panel yourself. It’s as simple as unscrewing the old one and putting the new one on top. This requires no electrical knowledge or wiring at all. These sliding cover plates shift the position of the sockets so they don’t line up. However, when someone wants to use the outlet, it’s as simple as moving the spring-loaded cover to insert the plug. When you are finished using the outlet and remove the plug, the cover snaps back into place.

Whatever your solution, it’s always a good idea to think about safety when it comes to curious toddlers and electricity. If you have questions about electrical safety or installing outlets, consult a trusted electrician.

Author: Amber Smith-Johnson

Copyright © 2018 Every Hour Services

May 3, 2018

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If you are referring to a regular household outlet and plan to put tape over it, then there is no danger. The contact points are not flat so it would be safe to use a more conductive material.

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Want switch plates to match your wall? Sherry Dunn

We are renovating our home and wanted to know if switch plates should blend in with your wall or is it okay to display them?