Why Would a Wall Outlet Make a Buzzing Sound?

Loose Connection

• In many cases, an electrical wall outlet is buzzing due to a loose connection. This is something you can verify and repair yourself, though it is slightly complicated work for a homeowner with no electrical work experience. First, turn off the circuit for that outlet at your circuit breaker box. Unscrew and remove the outlet cover, then unscrew the outlet itself and examine the wires behind it. Check for any loose connections or disconnected wires and tighten all connections. Put the outlet back together, turn the circuit back on and see whether the buzz is gone and the outlet works properly.

Overloaded Circuit

• Another reason a wall outlet might be buzzing or humming is due to an overloaded circuit. If you have a power strip plugged into it with several electronics or appliances drawing power, you may be overloading the circuit. Turn off all electronics and appliances connected to the outlet and move some to other outlets to distribute the electrical draw more evenly across multiple circuits.

Safety

• According to the U.S. Fire Administration, electrical issues cause almost 30,000 fires in homes in the U.S. each year and are responsible for over $1 billion in property damage. If your electrical outlet is buzzing, it is best to be safe and cautious. If you are uncomfortable and/or inexperienced working with electricity, it's best not to try to fix it yourself. Do not stick any tools or metal objects into the outlet. If it is sparking, call your local fire department or 911.

What to Do

• If you notice any odd electrical occurrences, make sure everyone in the house is okay, then call an electrician immediately who can come to your home as soon as possible. Loud noises, heat radiation or sparking from wall outlets are not common and should be treated as dangerous situations.