Electrical Problems: Urgent or Emergency?
Understanding when to reach out to a professional for electrical services is extremely important when you rent or own a home.
Electricity is so commonplace that we often forget that it can be dangerous. It’s used to light the home, cool it in the summer, and warm it in the winter. As beneficial as it is, if not harnessed properly, it can also be hazardous. The Electricity Safety Foundation says that electrical faults cause more than 50,000 house fires each year. Although electrical cables are hidden within the house walls, certain signs can point to a problem with the wiring. Let’s consider a few of them:
Circuit breaker issues
An overloaded circuit breaker will trip, turning off the power. These breakers are a safety measure that prevents wires from heating to the point where they could start a fire. A circuit breaker that trips frequently is cause for concern and should be inspected by an electrician. They will know how to safely handle what could otherwise be a dangerous job of replacing the damaged unit.
Electrical shocks
Home appliances should run without causing injury to the user. There is probably a wiring problem if the toaster or other device produces a mild shock when touched. A trained electrician can check the outlet to determine what’s causing the issue.
Flickering lights
If the lights are constantly blinking, it could signify that the light bulbs are defective or loose. It might also be a wiring issue. Contacting an experienced electrician is the best way to determine where the problem lies. While a loose light bulb shouldn’t be too worrisome, other causes of flickering lights could prove to be much more dangerous.
Burning odor
If there is a burning odor coming from an electrical switch or outlet, it could signify that something is wrong with the system. This is a matter that should be attended to immediately, as it could result in an electrical fire. Cords or cables that are warm to the touch also point to an electrical fault.
Malfunctioning light switches
Light switches that don’t turn on or off as they should point to a problem. It might be easy to replace the switch in question with a new one, but this is not the best solution. An electrician should first inspect the unit to determine what caused the issue in the first place. If the underlying problem isn’t addressed, it could worsen and create a hazardous situation.
Sparks
Sparks produced when an appliance is plugged in could point to an electrical circuit problem. On the other hand, a popping sound is likely caused by a loose wire. Either way, both issues should be immediately examined to prevent injury to the occupants or damage to appliances.
Reach out to a certified electrician
The home’s electrical wiring may be hidden in the walls, but there are still ways to identify problems with the system. If a fault is suspected, it would be advisable to contact an electrician as soon as possible to prevent an electrical fire.
ACT Electric performs quality, licensed and bonded work at affordable prices for both residential and commercial jobs. From troubleshooting to whole-house electrical renovations, their primary concern is the comfort and safety of their customers. Give them a call at (480)986-1722 today!
