Outlets and switches are the most-used components in your home's electrical system. You interact with them dozens of times a day, and over the years that constant use takes a toll. Contacts wear out, connections loosen, and plastic housings crack. A dead outlet is inconvenient. A loose or burned outlet is a fire hazard that demands immediate attention.
Many Aiken homes built in the 1960s through 1980s still have original outlets and switches that are well past their useful life. Two-prong ungrounded outlets, paint-covered switches that barely toggle, and receptacles so worn that plugs fall out are all common problems we see every week. Unity Power & Light provides professional outlet and switch repair and replacement throughout Aiken, SC -- restoring safety, convenience, and modern functionality to your home's electrical devices.
What We Do
From a single dead outlet to a whole-house outlet and switch upgrade, we handle every scope of work.
Dead Outlet Repair
An outlet that has stopped working may have a tripped GFCI upstream, a loose wire connection, a tripped breaker, or internal damage. We diagnose the exact cause and repair it. If the outlet itself has failed, we replace it with a new commercial-grade receptacle.
Loose & Worn Outlets
When plugs no longer stay firmly in the outlet, the internal spring contacts have worn out. Loose connections create heat from arcing, which can melt the outlet face and ignite surrounding materials. We replace worn outlets before they become a fire risk.
Burned & Discolored Outlets
Brown or black marks around an outlet, a melted face plate, or a burning smell are signs of arcing and overheating. This is an urgent safety issue. We remove the damaged outlet, inspect the wiring behind it for heat damage, repair any compromised wiring, and install a new outlet.
Switch Replacement & Upgrades
Switches that buzz, feel warm, spark when toggled, or do not work reliably need replacement. We also upgrade basic toggle switches to modern rocker switches, lighted switches, timer switches, and smart switches compatible with home automation systems.
Two-Prong to Three-Prong Upgrade
Older homes often have two-prong ungrounded outlets that cannot accept modern three-prong plugs. We upgrade these to grounded three-prong outlets by running a ground wire to the outlet box, or we install GFCI-protected outlets where adding a ground wire is not feasible.
USB & Modern Outlet Installation
Upgrade to outlets with built-in USB-A and USB-C charging ports, tamper-resistant outlets for child safety, weather-resistant outlets for exterior locations, or combination outlet-and-switch devices. We install modern devices that match your home's needs.
Our Repair Process
Diagnose the Issue
We test the outlet or switch to identify the root cause of the problem. This includes checking voltage, testing for proper grounding, inspecting wire connections, and verifying the circuit breaker status. Many dead outlets are caused by a tripped GFCI or a loose wire at a different location on the same circuit.
Inspect the Wiring
We pull the device out of the box and examine the wiring behind it. We look for loose connections, backstab wiring (push-in connections that are prone to failure), heat damage on conductors, and whether the box has a proper ground. Any wiring issues are addressed before the new device goes in.
Replace with Quality Devices
We install commercial-grade outlets and switches -- not the cheapest residential-grade devices from the hardware store. Commercial-grade devices have heavier contacts, tighter connections, and longer lifespans. We use screw terminals instead of backstab connections for reliable, long-lasting performance.
Test and Verify
We test every repaired or replaced outlet and switch to confirm proper voltage, correct polarity, solid grounding, and reliable operation. For GFCI outlets, we verify the test and reset functions work correctly. We install new wall plates if the originals are cracked or discolored.
Why Professional Repair Matters
Outlet and switch work is one of the most common DIY electrical tasks -- and one of the most frequently done incorrectly. Here is why professional repair is the safer choice.
Hidden Wiring Problems
A dead outlet is often a symptom of a problem elsewhere on the circuit. Loose connections at another outlet, a failing splice in the wall, or a damaged wire behind the drywall can all cause downstream outlets to lose power. We trace the circuit to find and fix the actual problem, not just the symptom.
Backstab Connection Failures
Many outlets in Aiken homes from the 1970s and 1980s were installed using push-in "backstab" connections instead of screw terminals. These connections loosen over time, causing arcing, heat buildup, and intermittent power. When we replace an outlet, we convert all connections to secure screw terminals.
Correct Grounding
An outlet with a three-prong face but no actual ground wire connected is a safety hazard. It gives the appearance of grounding protection without actually providing it. We verify that every three-prong outlet has a continuous ground path back to the panel, and we correct any that do not.
Code-Compliant Installation
Current electrical code requires tamper-resistant outlets in all new and replacement installations in residential dwellings. Kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor areas require GFCI protection. We ensure every outlet we install meets current NEC and South Carolina code requirements.
Outlet & Switch Repair Pricing
Unity Power & Light provides flat-rate pricing for outlet and switch work. You will know the exact cost before we begin -- no hourly billing and no surprise charges.
Pricing varies based on the type of device, the condition of the existing wiring, whether diagnostic work is needed to trace the problem, and the accessibility of the electrical box. We provide an exact quote after assessing your specific situation.
Want to understand what causes dead outlets? Read our blog post: Common Causes of Dead Outlets in Aiken, SC Homes
Why Choose Unity Power & Light
Need other electrical work done at the same time? We offer a full range of residential electrical services including lighting, panel upgrades, ceiling fans, and more. Combining projects in a single visit saves you time and money.
Need an Outlet or Switch Repaired?
Serving Aiken, SC and surrounding communities including North Augusta, Graniteville, New Ellenton, Jackson, and Clearwater. Get your flat-rate quote today.