I was changing an electrical outlet at home with a new one and tried using the stab-in connections on the back instead. But since then I've read that the screw-type terminal connections are better and most electricians would recommend going with the screw terminals and to avoid the stab-in back ones. I've had such a hard time just trying to remove the back connections now, and the wires have broken off inside the back holes, so they're basically stuck in there. I asked a local electrician if it was ok to just use the screw terminals instead and he said it's no problem, the receptacle is still fine to use, although I could replace it with a new one, it's not really necessary. I know it costs nothing to buy a new receptacle, but for my own knowledge, is the outlet still usable if there is a small amount of copper wire still stuck in the backhole?
2007-11-06 17:38:48 · 4 answers · asked by nomad2224 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
Electrically speaking, the push in connection and the screw terminal are the same spot.
As long as you trim the wire so it does not stick out the back, there will not be a problem.
The reason most electricians like the screw terminals better is vibration, along with heat expansion, can loosen the push in terminal over time. This can cause a fire hazard with arcing, and create a flow problem if there are other outlets on the same circuit.
2007-11-06 21:22:07 · answer #1 · answered by trooper3316 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's wise to ask an electrician. Just make sure you remember to shut off the electricity before working on any electrical fixture. The stab-in connection has a press release hole near it if you still want to remove the copper wire. If you can't remove the broken wire make sure you cut it flush and cover it with electrical tape to prevent it from touching any other metal.
2007-11-06 20:55:19 · answer #2 · answered by SilentDoGood 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's OK, they are not connected to anything on the other end,so there is no flow of current. Didn't that guy tell you how to release the wires? You stick something into it (next to the wire holes, there should be little slots) like a itty bitty flat-headed screwdriver,then as you are, pull the wire and it will come out. Byee, and don't worry you are fine.
2007-11-06 20:48:44 · answer #3 · answered by Sandyspacecase 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
unless you actually damaged the outlet, it should be fine the way it is.
2007-11-06 19:28:43 · answer #4 · answered by tootall1121 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋