How Professionals Identify and Repair These 10 Signs of a Faulty Electrical System
Your house’s electrical system manages your lights, major appliances, entertainment gadgets and everything else permanently connected or plugged into the wall. It’s highly inconvenient when something malfunctions, not to mention a possible safety hazard. Discover the top 10 signs of damage to the electrical system and how to resolve it.
1. Fading, Flickering or Buzzing Lights
If your light fixtures regularly dim, flicker or buzz, the specific circuits could be overloaded, or there could be a loose wiring connection. Overloaded circuits create a fire hazard due to overheating wiring. To resolve this problem, first try re-tightening or swapping out the affected bulbs. If that does not fix the problem, next replace the light switch or socket. For continued problems, namely if a buzzing sound appears, contact a professional to inspect your wiring and circuits.
2. A Burnt Plastic Odor
A burning smell near outlets or appliances indicates overheating or burnt wires, which could spark an electrical fire. Immediately turn off power to the area by flipping the related circuit breaker and unplug any devices connected to the outlet. Avoid using the outlet until you’ve had it professionally looked at and repaired.
3. Crackling or Scorch Marks on Outlets
If you see sparks when plugging in or unplugging devices or notice scorch marks on one of the wall outlets, it’s a definite sign of faulty wiring or a short circuit. Sparks will happen because of exposed wires or a bad electrical connection, leading to electrical arcing strong enough to cause severe burns, appliance damage and even fires. Move everything away from the outlet and switch off the related circuit breaker. Have a licensed electrician inspect and potentially replace the outlet, as they can safely check for any dangerous wiring problems.
4. Hot Outlets or Switch Plates
Outlets and any switch plates that are hot to the touch could indicate circuit overloading or faulty wiring. Heat may reach dangerous levels when too much electricity flows through wires that aren’t rated to handle the higher current, increasing the chance of an electrical fire. Disconnect all devices from the faulty outlet and turn off the circuit at the breaker. Reach out to an electrician so they can properly assess and resolve the problem.
5. Heavy Dependence on Extension Cords
Extension cords are convenient tools, but they are not supposed to be permanent solutions. Long-term use could lead to overloaded circuits and tripped breakers. If the house’s electric infrastructure doesn’t have enough outlets to safely meet your electrical needs, get an electrician to install other outlets.
6. Loose Plugs
Plugs that repeatedly fall out of outlets means worn-out sockets. Over time, the metal contact points inside the outlet can wear away, hindering their ability to grip plugs securely. Shaky connections can cause arcing, an electrical fire risk. Switch out any loose receptacles with new ones. This is a straightforward DIY fix, but if you’re not comfortable trying to work with electricity, call a professional.
7. Missing GFCIs in Kitchens and Bathrooms
Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are necessary for any spaces exposed to humidity, namely kitchens or bathrooms. When these rooms lack GFCIs, you’re more exposed to a dangerous electric shock if water reaches the outlet. Installing GFCI outlets is a good idea for a DIY project if you’re experienced with electrical work. That being said, hiring an electrician ensures proper installation and safety compliance.
8. Constantly Tripping Breakers or Blown Fuses
Circuit breakers and fuses protect your home by shutting off power when the system is overloaded or a fault is detected. If your home’s circuit breakers trip or fuses blow over and over, this means your electrical system is struggling to cope with the demand, which can also eventually lead to overheating and fire hazards. Prevent overloading by unplugging devices and reallocating the electrical load across different circuits. If the problem remains, have an electrician examine your system and upgrade your electrical panel or wiring when required.
9. Worn or Chewed Wiring
Age, wear and tear or even a rat infestation can be the underlying problem behind frayed or chewed wires. Damaged wiring means the protective plastic coating is no longer covering the conductive metal, increasing the risk of electric shocks and fires. Remove any damaged wiring you come across right away. This type of repair job is best left to a seasoned and insured electrician.
10. Antiquated Wiring
Homes originally constructed in the late 1960s and early 1970s could have aluminum wiring, which corrodes sooner compared to copper and causes fire risks. Even earlier homes from the 1880s to the 1940s may contain knob-and-tube wiring, which is missing a ground wire. These older systems are less efficient and more exposed to overheating and failure. It’s a good idea to have your home rewired with safe, modern copper wiring. This extensive job should be left to a licensed electrician, as they have the necessary tools and experience for safe, compliant work.
Rely on the Professionals for Your Electrical Needs
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing employs a team of licensed electricians who can identify and fix all kinds of electrical issues. We’ll ensure your wiring, outlets and fixtures are secure and up to code. When you next spot signs of a faulty electrical system, contact us to arrange services in your area.
