---
title: "What Is Hot outlet? Electrical Glossary | Daniel Electric"
description: "A hot outlet is a receptacle or cover plate that feels warm or hot to the touch, which can signal a loose connection or an overload."
url: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/hot-outlet
publisher: Daniel Electric
phone: +1-817-481-8606
quote: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/contact
---

Wiring and circuits

# Hot outlet

A hot outlet is a receptacle or cover plate that feels warm or hot to the touch, which can signal a loose connection or an overload.

An outlet should not feel warm. Heat usually means resistance at a connection, a worn device or too much load. ESFI lists warm or discolored wall plates among overloaded circuit warning signs. Unplug what you can safely and stop using the outlet.

CPSC lists hot-to-the-touch face plates among signs of electrical system problems and says not to try the fix yourself. A licensed electrician should inspect the [receptacle](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/receptacle) and check for an [overload](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/overload). See [electrical warning signs](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/guides/electrical-warning-signs).

[Daniel Electric can helpResidential electrician](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/electrician)

## Related terms

-   [Buzzing outlet](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/buzzing-outlet)
-   [Receptacle](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/receptacle)
-   [Overload](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/overload)
-   [Burning smell](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/burning-smell)

## Sources

1.  [Electrical Safety Foundation International: Electrical Warning Signs](https://www.esfi.org/electrical-warning-signs-video-short/)
2.  [U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: Repairing Aluminum Wiring](https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/516.pdf)

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