As a homeowner, you’re likely to experience common electrical problems at some point. Whether it’s a broken switch or a wiring issue, these problems can be frustrating and difficult to diagnose. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common electrical problems in the home and provide tips on how to fix them.
1 – Outlets Not Working
This is usually caused by a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse. To fix this, simply reset the breaker or replace the fuse. If that doesn’t work, there may be a more serious issue with the electrical wiring. In that case, you’ll need to call an electrician.
2 – Flickering Lights
This is often caused by a loose lightbulb. Make sure the lightbulb is screwed in tightly. If that doesn’t work, try replacing the bulb. If this is a recurring issue you’ve noticed with specific light bulb fixtures, there may be a greater issue with your wiring. Check out our article on troubleshooting faulty fixtures.
3 – Electricity Surging or Sagging
Electricity surges and sags are often caused by things like lightning strikes, electric company slip-ups, or damaged power lines. When there is a spike in charge within the power lines, it increases the current to your home’s outlets and can cause your appliances to turn on and off rapidly. Repeated exposure to a surge can damage electronics and drastically reduce their lifespan. If your appliances still surge regularly, have an electrician come out to inspect and correct the problem.
4 – Few Available Outlets
Depending on the age and design of your home, you may not have a lot of electrical outlets at your disposal. While power strips and extension cords can be useful, plugging too many into your existing outlets can be dangerous for a few reasons.
First, overloading an outlet can lead to rapid tripping of the circuit breaker. This can cause an inconvenience by cutting off power to the devices you’re using, but it can also be dangerous if you’re using equipment that requires a lot of power, like a hair dryer or a curling iron.
Second, overloading outlets can create an increased risk of fire. When too many appliances are plugged into one outlet, the wiring can heat up and potentially start a fire. Finally, overloading outlets can lead to voltage surges. These surges can damage your devices or even cause an electrical fire. So it’s not just a question of convenience – overloading your outlets is a safety hazard.
5 – Frequent Tripped Breakers or Blown Fuses
This is usually caused by overloading the circuit. To fix this, you’ll need to identify which circuit is overloaded and then redistribute the load to another circuit. To learn more about what to do in this situation, check out our article on what to do when your breaker keeps tripping.
6 – Burning Smell Coming from Outlets
If you notice a burning smell coming from an outlet, it’s likely due to a loose wire. Unplug all appliances and devices from the outlet, and turn off the circuit it’s connected to, then remove the faceplate. Tighten any loose wires and screw the faceplate back on. If you would like more information on this subject, check out our article on how to deal with smoking outlets.
Tidal Electrical Services Can Help
If you’re at all uncertain about undertaking electrical work on your own, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Tidal Electrical Services. We have the experience and expertise necessary to provide you with quality solutions for all your electrical needs, and we’re available to service the Houston, TX and Raleigh, NC markets. Contact us today to get started!
