Electrical outlets and switches are an essential part of your home’s electrical system. At QRC, we provide specialized outlet and switch installation, repairs, and upgrades to Winston-Salem and surrounding North Carolina residents.
Our Comprehensive Outlet & Switch Services
At QRC, our team provides outlet and switch repair, installation, and upgrade services to improve the safety, reliability, and performance of your electrical system.
Outlet and switch troubleshooting and repair
From flickering lights to buzzing receptacles, our expert electrical team can troubleshoot your outlets and switches. They’ll provide a detailed diagnosis with the underlying malfunction and out switch and outlet repair recommendations, then get started on restoring the proper function of your equipment.
Outlet and switch installation and replacement
In some cases, outlets and switches require replacement altogether. Whether you’re installing a receptacle or switch in a new area, upgrading an existing outlet to support a new appliance or devices, or replacing a faulty outlet, our team can provide safe and expert installation and replacement services.
Addressing Common Outlet & Switch Issues
Standard outlets and switches should last between 15 and 30 years, but various issues can sometimes necessitate repair or replacement sooner than expected.
Switch malfunctions
If your lights fail, flicker, or delay when you switch them on, the problem may lay with the light switch and require switch replacement. Some damage to switches is obvious, such as loose toggle or slide mechanisms, cracks, or scorch marks. In other cases, loose wiring or other hidden problems may be the underlying cause of malfunction.
Tripped circuit breakers
While occasional circuit breaker trips are expected, frequent trips potentially indicate a bigger problem with your outlets, switches, and electrical system. If a specific outlet or outlets on the same circuit trip repeatedly, it may suggest those outlets are drawing more power than they can handle. The outlets aren’t necessarily the problem, but their circuits require further inspection to check for wiring damage, loose components, or upgrade needs.
Tripped GFCI
Ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets are essential protections against short circuits, electrical shocks, and fire that detect and cut off abnormal electrical currents. If your GFCI outlet trips, pressing the reset button should restore it to regular function. If it doesn’t reset or restore power, a professional should inspect it for damage.
Damaged outlet
Outlets can sustain damage whether due to age, improper installation, or other underlying electrical problems, in which case they’re likely due for replacement. Promptly addressing these issues is important for your home’s electrical safety. Examples of damage or malfunction include:
- No power/outlet not working
- Cracks
- Loose receptacle
- Smoke or sparks
- Melting or scorch marks
- Buzzing
Two-pronged outlets
Older electrical systems may still have two-pronged outlets. These outlets don’t offer the same protection as modern three-prong outlets and typically require replacement. In many cases, two-prong outlets don’t meet electrical codes as they lack a ground wire to redirect current overloads and protect against electrical fire or shock.
Outlet & Switch Upgrades & Installations
Upgrading your outlets and switches can improve the convenience, performance, and safety of your home. We offer modern outlet and switch installation and upgrades, such as:
- Light dimmer installation: Dimmer switches and timers give you enhanced control over your lighting, ambience, and energy efficiency.
- Smart switch wiring: Smart switches add convenience and control, allowing you to control devices or appliances using voice assistant technology and dedicated tablet or phone apps.
- USB outlets: A type of combination switch, USB outlets combine outlets, switches, and USB ports into a single unit where you can charge your devices without an adapter.
- GFCI outlets: GFCI outlets monitor and block abnormal electrical currents and are required by code for kitchens, bathrooms, and other moisture-prone areas.
- AFCI outlets: AFCI outlets detect electrical arcs and cut off power before they can cause damage or harm.
- Tamper-resistant outlets: These outlets feature shutters that prevent the insertion of anything except an electrical plug, providing additional child-proof protection.
- Specialty outlets and switches: Other specialty outlets and switches, such as recessed, motion sensor, and nightlight, can add to convenience and safety.
DIY vs. Professional
While replacing a cover plate or tightening screws is a reasonable DIY fix, many tasks should be left to professional electricians. DIY work may initially seem more cost-effective but can lead to errors or damages that cost more to repair.
Electrical work is precise and can involve electrical hazards, such as shocks and fire, if handled incorrectly. Relying on experience and expertise, licensed electricians adhere to strict safety guidelines to protect your home and family and comply with local electrical code and regulations. Professional outlet and switch installation and repair also ensures the performance and reliability of your equipment.
Why Choose QRC for Your Outlet & Switch Needs?
Serving Winston-Salem and surrounding North Carolina areas since 2003, QRC is the relied-on provider for electrical services and more. As a service-oriented company, we pride ourselves on putting customers first and ensuring 100% satisfaction. Choosing our team means taking advantage of:
- Expert technicians: Licensed and certified, our electricians possess the skills, experience, and knowledge to provide top-notch outlet and switch services.
- Quality workmanship: We emphasize a high standard of workmanship with every installation and repair.
- Safety first: Your safety is our priority, and we adhere to safety standards and code requirements to ensure safe and reliable installation.
Contact QRC for Outlet and Switch Repair in Winston-Salem
At QRC, our expert electrical team provides comprehensive services to optimize your home’s safety and performance, such as outlet installations, switch repairs, and modern upgrades. Take advantage of reliable and high-quality solutions — contact us or book online today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have my outlets and switches inspected?
Inspections every few years can help prevent hidden problems from escalating and ensure your home’s safety. Schedule an inspection if you notice signs of outlet or switch problems.
How can I prevent outlet circuit overloads?
Avoid overloaded circuits by minimizing the amount of high-demand outlets in a single outlet or power strip. Ensure the capacity and ratings of your outlets and power strips match the needs of your appliances and devices, and consider professional upgrades if necessary.