Computers and Home Electrical Outlet Power Quality

Would a home electrical outlet have any affect of the laptops performance when plugged into the wall outlet? We use the outlet in our kitchen wall and have for about 1 year with our laptop computer. Last week, our laptop just froze, would not respond to any commands even after taking the battery out and etc. Our son who works on computers suggested it maybe our outlet plug in the kitchen interfering with the performance and causing the problems. Is this true?

This electrical question came from: Libby, a Homeowner from Cumming, Georgia.
See more about Home Wiring for Georgia

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Libby.

Electrical Outlet Power Conditioning and Surge Protection

Libby, the performance of one home outlet compared to another outlet in a different location should not have and effect, as long as the outlet condition of the outlet is good. If the outlet is worn out where a plug does not make a good connection then the outlet should be replaced. However there are concerns about power quality which can affect individual circuits and possible the complete home electrical system as well. Home power quality issues can be due to a variety of reasons and external conditions. Most power quality issues can be resolved by using Power Conditioners or Surge Suppression devices. I personally make it a habit to always use a good quality power filter and surge suppression for all our electronic devices to help avoid problems.

The Following links will assist you with your electrical question:

Power Conditioning and Surge Protection

Power Conditioning and Surge Protection

A surge protective device protects your laptops and computers as well as other electrical wiring equipment and appliances from voltage surges and spikes that interfere with their normal operation.

These surges can cause immediate physical damage to your appliances, electronics and electrical wiring, wear them down over time or create interferences that cause them to malfunction.

Kitchen Electrical Wiring

Electrical Outlets

electrical outlet wiring

Wiring Electrical Outlet for the Home
Home electrical wiring includes 110 volt outlets and 220 volt outlets and receptacles which are common place in every home. See how wiring electrical outlets for the home are done.

How to Install Kitchen Electrical Wiring

Kitchen Electrical Wiring
Fully Explained Photos and Wiring Diagrams for Kitchen Electrical Wiring with Code Requirements for most new or remodel projects.

For more information about Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Electrical Wiring
Licensed Electrician Reveals the Secrets of Successful Electrical Troubleshooting Methods used to solve the majority of the home electrical problems and wiring failures encountered.

This link is helpful as a Homeowner
Do-It-Yourself Electrical