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Electrical Wiring

light works, vacuum wont off same plug

12 years ago

I have 3 outlets on a 20A circuit that will power a light but not run my electric leaf blower. All 3 test (using a 3-prong tester) as being properly wired, ie, not reversed and properly grounded and show 120V. The first is indoors, the second is an outside GFI outlet that properly trip tests and shows a green OK light, and the third is also outside. Other outlets on this circuit all function properly. Any suggestions on what is wired incorrectly or if something else is wrong.

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Comments (4)

randy427
12 years ago
Does the leaf blower work anywhere else?
mswestj
Original Author
12 years ago
Yes, even on other plugs on that circuit
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Wizard346
12 years ago
Have you pulled the outlet out to visually verify that it's wired correctly? if not, be sure to turn off the circuit to be safe.
Otherwise try replacing the outlet to be sure and safe.
joefixit2
12 years ago
Probably a worn outlet or a loose connection. Try bending the blades of the plug outwards just a tiny bit. If that doesn't work you'll have to do what Wizard suggested, keep in mind a loose connection (like a blown out backstab) could exist at any one of the outlets upstream of the ones you are having issues with, even one that works OK. Vacuum cleaners are the best tool I know of for exposing weak backstabs.

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