5 Common Electrical Issues Homeowners Shouldn’t Ignore

Electricity is an essential part of our daily routines, powering everything from our homes and devices to our appliances and gadgets. However, it’s easy to overlook the potential issues that can arise when our electrical systems are not properly maintained.

Unchecked electrical problems cause $1.3 billion in property damage and are responsible for 32,000 home fires annually. Knowing signs of performance issues is critical to staying safe and protecting your residential investment. Here are five signs your electrical systems might need some TLC from a licensed professional. 

Stay Safe: Electrical Warning Signs to Be Aware Of Five electrical issues you shouldn't ignore include flickering lights, breaker tripping, outlets that spark, and more.

Keep your home safe and avoid damage by looking out for these electrical issues.

1) Flickering Lights 

Flickering lights can be a nuisance but can also indicate loose wiring, damaged light fixtures, or circuit overload. Left unexamined, these potential problems can balloon into a serious problem. 

  • Loose or Damaged Wires: Without a proper connection, loose or damaged wires can generate high amounts of heat within your walls. This can lead to melting or igniting insulation and other materials.
  • Faulty Light Fixtures: Damaged fixtures can create short circuits, which can cause spark and fire risk.
  • Overloaded Circuits: Overloaded circuits consume more current than their rating allows, increasing the chances of wiring ignition.

2) Outlets & Light Switches Hot to the Touch 

There is never any reason why an electrical outlet or light switch should be warm. If you notice any warmth emitting from either source, it’s time to call your contractor. Hot and discolored outlets often mean:

  • Faulty wiring
  • Poor connections
  • Overloaded circuits
  • Short circuits
  • Loose or corroded wires
  • Incorrect installation of devices
  • Malfunctioning electrical components

Potential dangers include electrical shocks, damage to appliances, and fire risk.

3) Excessive Circuit Breaker Tripping 

It’s not uncommon to trip a circuit breaker occasionally. However, frequent tripping can be a sign of more serious electrical overloads or wiring issues. Repeatedly resetting a breaker and ignoring root causes could pose an overheating risk.

4) Bad Odors & Burning Smells

Faulty electrical systems have distinct odors. People describe it as burning rubber or plastic. If you detect foul odors and think they are coming from electrical systems, contact an electrician immediately to prevent major damage and fire hazards and ensure your home’s safety.

5) Outlets That Spark or Smoke

Sparks are a sure sign that something is amiss. If you plug an appliance or device into or from an outlet and see sparks or smoke, that’s a sure sign of an electrical hazard. Sparks are usually an indication of:

  • Loose connections
  • Damaged wiring
  • Old or faulty components

Remember, where there’s smoke or sparks, there’s a potential for fire. It’s best to call your local electrical professional to repair or replace system parts.

What Do You Do if You Suspect an Electrical Issue? An electrician in a blue jumpsuit tests wiring in a home while the homeowner watches.

When dealing with electrical systems, leaving things to chance is never a good idea. That’s why it’s in every homeowner’s best interest to call in the big guns: reputable contractors.  Professional electrical workers can help diagnose a variety of problems, including:

No matter the issue, they can help repair or replace system components, advise on home smart systems, recommend a maintenance schedule, and address any concerns.

Choose an Experienced Electrical Professional Near You

Looking for a local expert? Check out our comprehensive list of licensed and bonded electricians in your area. You’ll find a wide range of specialists with expertise in electrical repair and installation.

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