Electricity makes our modern way of life possible. However, with this convenience comes responsibility… Do you know when it’s time to put the DIY videos on YouTube away and seek professional help? Don’t wait until it’s too late or until you’re injured to call an electrician for your home or business’s electrical needs!
The electrical system in your home or business requires proper maintenance and attention to avoid potential fire hazards. From flickering lights to tripped circuit breakers, understanding common electrical problems, and knowing when to call a professional is vital to maintaining a safe environment.
Read on to learn the signs and symptoms of the most common electrical problems so you know when to seek professional assistance. While some problems might seem manageable at first glance, attempting a DIY fix can be dangerous and can make the problem worse. When in doubt about electrical issues, enlist the help of one of your local, licensed electricians at Grounded Solutions.
Understanding Common Electrical Problems
TRIPPED BREAKER
One of the most common electrical problems homeowners face is a tripped circuit breaker. A circuit breaker trips when an overloaded circuit or a short circuit causes the breaker to trip, shutting off the power to prevent damage. If you notice frequent circuit breaker trips, especially when using specific appliances or in certain areas of your home, it could indicate that you have an overloaded circuit or a faulty appliance.
FLICKERING LIGHTS
Flickering lights may seem innocuous, but they can indicate serious issues, including loose or faulty wiring, a faulty fixture, or an overloaded circuit. If the flickering persists after changing bulbs or tightening connections, it might be a sign of a more serious underlying electrical problem.
BURNING SMELL
A burning smell coming from an outlet, switch, or electrical panel should never be ignored. This smell can indicate overheating wires or faulty connections and can even cause electrical fires. Immediate action is necessary to address this issue.
GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTOR ISSUES (GFCIs)
GFCIs are crucial for protecting against electrical shocks in areas exposed to water, like bathrooms and kitchens. If your GFCI outlets are malfunctioning or not resetting, it poses a significant electrical safety risk.
OVERLOADED CIRCUITS
Plugging too many devices into a single outlet or circuit can overload it, leading to overheating and potential fire hazards. Understanding the load capacity of circuits is crucial to avoid overloading them.
FAULTY WIRING
Old or faulty wiring is a serious concern that can lead to electrical shocks, fires, or power outages. Signs of faulty electrical wiring include sparking outlets, frequent circuit breaker trips, and discolored or warm outlets.
When to Call a Professional Electrician
While some minor electrical problems can be addressed by resetting a breaker or changing a light bulb, certain signs necessitate immediate professional attention:
Safety Concerns: Any burning smell, sparking, or signs of overheating should prompt an immediate call to a licensed electrician to avoid fire hazards or electrical shocks.
Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips: If circuit breakers are repeatedly tripping without an obvious cause, it indicates an underlying issue that requires professional diagnosis.
Persistent Flickering Lights: Continuous flickering after basic troubleshooting indicates a deeper electrical problem that needs expert assessment.
Old or Faulty Wiring: Houses with outdated or damaged wiring pose significant risks. Only licensed electricians should handle wiring inspections, repairs, or replacements.
GFCI Malfunctions: Non-functioning GFCIs can compromise safety in areas exposed to moisture. An electrician should address these issues promptly.
Finding a Good Local Electrician
When seeking the best local electrician, consider the following:
Credentials: Ensure the electrician is licensed, bonded, and insured.
Experience: Look for electricians with a solid track record and experience in handling diverse electrical issues.
Recommendations: Seek recommendations from friends, family, or online reviews to find reputable professionals.
Transparent Pricing: Obtain quotes and ensure transparency in pricing before any work begins. Avoid electricians or companies that work on a commission basis, as their service technicians or electricians only get paid based on what they’re able to sell. This often leads to unnecessary upsells to increase the pay the technician receives. At Grounded Solutions, we believe in paying our employees a fair hourly or salaried rate. We do not engage in commission-based pay, so you can rest assured that the quote you receive from us is accurate to meet your needs, with nothing extra tacked on.
Need more information on identifying the right electrician for your project? Check out our 10 Essential Tips for Hiring the Best Electrician in Your Area.
Understanding common electrical problems and recognizing when you’re past the point of DIY and need to call in the cavalry is crucial for maintaining a safe and functional electrical system in your home or business. Remember, safety should always be the top priority, and any suspicion of significant electrical issues warrants immediate professional attention to prevent hazards and ensure peace of mind.
Contact us today to get your FREE estimate and take the first step toward eliminating your electrical worries and gaining peace of mind!
If you’re currently dealing with any of the electrical problems above, Grounded Solutions is here to help! Our team of licensed, bonded, and insured electricians is Central Indiana’s go-to provider for first-rate electrical services.
