When To Call An Electrician: Signs Of Electrical Issues In Your Home

We often take electricity for granted, but it is essential for our daily lives. Electrical issues in your home can be a major source of frustration for any home-owner. Knowing when to call a professional electrician is key to ensuring that the issues are resolved in a safe and timely manner. Here is your ultimate guide to spotting the signs of electrical issues in your home, and when to call an electrician. 

1. Flickering, Dim Or No Lights

If you experience flickering or dim lights, particularly if it’s recurring, it may be a sign of a more significant electrical problem. Often, older light bulbs may be the culprit, however, if they are regularly replaced then it is important to check the wiring as this could be a sign of an overloaded circuit. 

In the event of no lights, you should check your circuit breaker to ensure that the circuits connected to your lights are still functioning correctly. 

If these are all functioning correctly, then in either case it may be time to call an electrician in Bucks County, PA

2. Discolored Outlets

Discolored outlets, such as those that give off a burning smell or are blackened or charred around the edges are a sign of an overloaded outlet or a potentially serious electrical issue that requires the attention of an electrician. It is important to switch off the affected outlets or circuit immediately and call a qualified electrician. 

3. Unusual Sizzling Noises

Any unusual sounds coming from your outlets or wiring in your home could be a sign of an electrical issue. It could be a short in the wiring, an overloaded circuit or a more serious problem. 

It is always important to take these noises seriously and to get an expert assessment as soon as possible. 

4. Multiple Blown Fuses

If several breakers or fuses blow consistently, even when they’re not being used, then it could be an indication of a circuit overload. This could be caused by an appliance being plugged in and drawing too much power, or an underlying fault in the wiring. 

An electrician will be able to diagnose the issue and provide the most suitable solution. 

5. Burning Smell Or Smoke

If you ever detect a burning smell or visible smoke coming from any of your appliances or outlets, then this is a major sign of an electrical issue. This could be a result of an electrical fire, but could also be indicative of a fault that could cause an electrical fire. 

In either of these cases, it is essential to switch off the affected circuit and call an electrician immediately for a professional assessment. 

6. Warm Outlets

Outlets and switches should never feel warm to the touch as this is a sign of an underlying issue with the wiring and power distribution in your home. It could be an overloaded circuit or a more serious problem that requires the attention of an electrician.

7. Low Current

If you have power outages or lights that flicker sporadically, this could be a sign that the electric current provided to your home does not meet the proper standards. This could also be indicative of a problem in your wiring, which will require professional attention.

8. Poorly Installed Panels

If the circuit panel in your home was installed before 1996, then it may not be up to code or functioning safely for your home. It is important to call an electrician to inspect the panel and provide an assessment as to whether it needs to be replaced.

9. Buzzing Devices 

If any of your plugged in devices – such as refrigerators, air-conditioners, or microwaves – are buzzing, then this could be a sign of an issue with the wiring or power distribution in your home. It is important to call an electrician to inspect the wiring and identify any underlying issues. 

10. Outdated Wiring 

Outdated wiring, such as aluminum wiring, is dangerous and should immediately be inspected by a qualified electrician. This should also be done for any homes that have had unapproved DIY electrical work carried out, as this can cause significant safety hazards.

11. Circuit Breaker Trips

If the circuit breaker trips regularly, even with light loads, then this could be a sign of a more serious underlying electrical fault. It is important to call an electrician to properly assess the cause and determine the necessary remedy. 

12. Sparks 

Any sparks emitted from outlets, switches, or wires must be taken seriously and immediate attention should be taken. It is never safe to attempt to fix these issues yourself and it is important to call an electrician as soon as possible.

Final Reflections

Electricity is a crucial component of everyday living and electrical troubles in your house should not be treated lightly. To avoid any potential risks or damage that may be caused, it is essential to spot any potential problems as soon as possible. 

Be aware of the warning signs described in this article, and if you see any of them, shut off the concerned circuit right away and contact a licensed electrician. By doing this, you can be sure that any problems will be resolved quickly and securely.

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