Minor electrical glitch...any helper out there?

[likesmountains 52]

Last night my computer just lost power and when I investigated I figured out the the outlet had lost power. So I checked my fuse box and tripped all the switches, but still no power...but the other plug in the same outlet does still work...Why would one plug go out and the other one work? Do I need an electrician? Thanks.

[Stinky The Clown]

1. Sounds like a burn-out in the outlet

I can't say if you need an electrician or not. Are you sufficiently confident to replace the outlet? Just turn off the breaker that serves it, remove the outlet, install a new one, replace the cover, and check everything for function.

Its about a 10 minute job, but some people are put off working around electricity. Not a put-down to those who are ... just a fact.

[likesmountains 52]

2. Thank you! Sounds like a job for my son in law....

[Warpy]

3. One good thing about electricity

When you cut the juice, it's OFF. There's nothing remaining in the wires (unlike water or sludge in plumbing).

My guess is that either the wiring to the socket has worked loose over time or that one side of the socket has simply fried.

Buy a replacement socket. Plug a light into the existing socket and turn it on. Make sure it goes out when you trip the breaker to cut the juice.

Wiring a replacement is easy. Black is "hot," and is wired to the gold terminal. White is "neutral," and is wired to the silver terminal. Any other color is by default "ground," and is wired to the green terminal.

Changing a socket is one of the easier repairs, and one homeowners should be able to tackle. The main thing to remember is to make sure the juice is OFF. As an extra safety measure, you can buy a tester when you buy the new outlet. They're cheaper than dirt and can give you a little extra peace of mind.

[likesmountains 52]

5. Thanks...electrical repairs always intimidate me but this sounds pretty ea

[NMDemDist2]

4. here's a great step by step how to change the outlet

http://www.bobvila.com/FixItClub/Subject/Electrical/Boxes__and__Wiring/FIG_ElectricalOutlet.html

[likesmountains 52]

6. Thank you..on my way to the hardware store right now!

[NMDemDist2]

7. well.... how did it go? n/t

[likesmountains 52]

8. it's going to end up being a Saturday project....I will let ya know!