i just used my shop vac and sucked the dust off/out. It seemed to work fine, looks cleaner that's for sure. I didn't even pull it off the carbon filter, lol..
First thing that comes to mind is Thripes... Can't diagnose without pics. But, i would spray with neem and see what happens. If you spray, make sure you get the undersides of EVERY leaf and the stems..
it sounds like your outlet took a shit. You can get a tester for them to find out exactly. otherwise just buy a new outlet and replace it. make sure to replace with the right amp. outlet tho.. good luck