Causes of Loose Outlets

Loose outlets can be caused by several factors, including:

• Loose outlet screws
• Missing or damaged outlet shims
• Recessed electrical box
• Loose electrical box in the wall
• Damaged outlet

Safety Precautions

Before attempting to fix a loose outlet, it is crucial to take the following safety precautions:

• Turn off the power to the outlet at the electrical service panel or breaker box.
• Verify that the power is off at the outlet using a non-contact voltage tester.

Tools and Materials

To fix a loose outlet, you will need the following tools and materials:

• Flathead screwdriver
• Phillips head screwdriver
• Non-contact voltage tester
• Electrical outlet plastic shims, kit
• Electrical box extender, 1/4- or 1/2-inch as needed
• Metal wall plate spacer

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Tighten the Wall Plate Screw

• Locate the center screw on the wall plate that covers the outlet.
• Using a flathead screwdriver, turn the screw clockwise to tighten it.
• Do not over-tighten, as this can damage the wall plate.

2. Tighten the Outlet Screws

• Remove the wall plate by unscrewing the center screw.
• Use a Phillips head screwdriver to tighten both the upper and lower outlet screws.
• Replace the wall plate and screw it back into place.

3. Add Shims to the Outlet Screws

• If the electrical box is recessed more than 1/4-inch behind the wall, you will need to add shims to the outlet screws.
• Break off enough plastic shims to fill the gap between the outlet and the wall.
• Loosen the top and bottom outlet screws slightly.
• Add shims to the top and bottom of the outlet, behind the yoke.
• Tighten the outlet screws.
• Replace the wall plate.

4. Add an Electrical Box Extender

• If the electrical box is deeply recessed within the wall (more than 1/4-inch), you will need to add an extender to the box.
• Remove the outlet from the box by unscrewing the top and bottom screws.
• Slip the extender over the outlet and press it against the box.
• Screw the outlet back into place, directly into the extender.
• Replace the wall plate.

5. Tighten the Electrical Box in the Wall

• If the electrical box is an old work or remodel box, the swing clamps that hold the box to the wall may be loose.
• Remove the wall plate.
• Using a Phillips head screwdriver, tighten the two screws located diagonally from each other on the electrical box.
• Do not over-tighten to avoid breaking the swing clamps.
• Replace the wall plate.

6. Add a Metal Wall Plate Spacer

• If a stud-mounted electrical box is loose in the wall, you can use a metal wall plate spacer to secure it.
• Remove the wall plate.
• Loosen the top and bottom outlet screws slightly.
• Slip the spacer behind the outlet screws.
• Tighten the outlet screws down onto the spacer.
• Replace the wall plate.

7. Replace the Electric Outlet

• If the outlet is damaged beyond repair, you will need to replace it.
• Turn off the power to the outlet.
• Remove the wall plate.
• Unscrew the top and bottom outlet screws.
• Pull out the outlet by the yoke.
• Take note of the wires and their positions.
• Unscrew the terminal screws to remove the wires.
• Replace the wires on the new outlet, duplicating the previous positions.
• Fold back the wires and replace the outlet.
• Add the outlet screws to secure the outlet to the box.
• Replace the wall plate.

When to Call a Professional

Most loose outlets can be fixed by following the steps outlined above. However, if you have tried all the repairs and the outlet is still loose, you should call a licensed electrician for assistance.