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Page 43 — Electrical

How to Fix a Loose Outlet or Switch

A loose outlet or switch that wiggles in the wall is a safety issue and should be fixed promptly. The fix takes five minutes and costs nothing.

Screwdriver
Removes the cover plate and tightens the mounting screws.
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Outlet Spacers
Plastic spacers that go behind the mounting screws when the outlet sits too deep in the box.
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1
Turn Off Power and Remove Cover Plate

Go to the breaker panel and turn off the circuit for the outlet or switch. Confirm it's off. Remove the single center screw and take off the cover plate.

2
Tighten the Mounting Screws

You'll see two screws — one at the top and one at the bottom — securing the outlet or switch to the electrical box. Tighten both firmly.

3
Add Spacers If Needed and Restore Power

If the outlet sits too far back even after tightening, add plastic outlet spacers behind the mounting screws. Reinstall the cover and restore power.

Safety Reminder

Always turn off the breaker before working on any outlet or switch — even for a simple tightening job.

How to Reset a Breaker
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