Here’s How Professionals Find and Fix These 10 Signs of a Faulty Electrical System
Your home’s electrical system controls the lights, important appliances, entertainment systems and anything else hardwired or plugged into an outlet. It’s highly inconvenient when something acts up, not to mention a common safety hazard. Learn about the top 10 signs of a problem with your electrical system and how to address it.
1. Dimming, Flickering or Buzzing Lights
If your light fixtures frequently dim, flicker or buzz, your electric panel may be overloaded, or there could be damage to the wiring connection. Overloaded circuits pose a fire hazard because of the risk of overheating wiring. To resolve this problem, try tightening or replacing the affected bulbs. If that fails, next replace the light switch or socket. For continued problems, namely if a buzzing sound appears, call a professional so they can inspect your wiring and circuits.
2. A Burnt or Melted Plastic Odor
A melted plastic smell coming from outlets or appliances indicates overheating or burnt wires, which in turn may cause an electrical fire. Immediately shut off power to the area using the corresponding circuit breaker and unplug any devices connected to the outlet. Refrain from using the outlet before you’ve had it professionally inspected and tested after repairs.
3. Sparking or Scorch Marks on Outlets
If you notice sparks when plugging in or unplugging something or see scorch marks on a socket, it’s a clear sign of bad wiring or a short circuit. Sparks are most likely to occur if there’s exposed wires or a bad electrical connection, producing electrical arcing strong enough to cause severe burns, appliance damage and even an electrical fire. Stop using the outlet and switch off the corresponding circuit breaker. Have a certified electrician inspect and potentially replace the outlet, as they can safely check for any potential wiring problems.
4. Hot Outlets or Switch Plates
Outlets and any switch plates that are warm to the touch could signal circuit overloading or bad wiring. Heat accumulates if excessive electricity reaches wires that aren’t capable of safely handling the higher current, increasing your vulnerability to an electrical fire. Disconnect all devices from the broken outlet and turn off the circuit at the breaker. Contact an electrician so they can safely diagnose and resolve the problem.
5. Total Dependence on Using Extension Cords
Extension cords are useful to have around, but they should never be permanent solutions. Inappropriate use could lead to overloaded circuits or tripping breakers. If the electric doesn’t have enough outlets for your electrical needs, hire an electrician to install one or two more outlets.
6. Loose Plugs
Plugs that constantly slip out of outlets means worn-out sockets. With enough time, the metal contact points within the outlet can wear away, hindering their ability to hold plugs firmly. Shaky connections can produce arcing, an electrical fire risk. Replace any damaged receptacles with new ones. This is a potentially simple DIY fix, but if you prefer not to work with electricity, call a professional.
7. Missing GFCIs in Kitchens and Bathrooms
Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are required for rooms exposed to humidity, namely kitchens or bathrooms. When these rooms lack GFCIs, you’re at a higher risk for electric shock if water reaches the outlet. Adding GFCI outlets is easy to make a DIY project if you’re familiar with electrical work. Of course, calling a professional electrician ensures the very best installation and safety compliance.
8. Frequently Tripping Breakers or Blown Fuses
Circuit breakers and fuses help safeguard your home by shutting off power when the system overloads or a fault has been detected. If the circuit breakers are tripping or fuses blow regularly, this usually suggests your electrical system struggles to cope with such high demand, which in turn exposes you to overheating and fire hazards. Prevent overloading by unplugging devices and redistributing the electrical load safely between multiple circuits. If the problem remains, have an electrician inspect the entire system and upgrade your electrical panel or any wires if necessary.
9. Frayed or Visibly Damaged Wiring
Age, wear and tear or even a rat infestation can be the culprit behind damaged or chewed wires. Damaged wiring reveals the conductive metal, enhancing your risk of electric shocks and fires. Replace any damaged wiring you come across as soon as possible. This type of repair job is best left to a certified electrician.
10. Outdated Wiring
Homes originally constructed in the late 1960s and early 1970s are more likely to have aluminum wiring, which oxidizes sooner compared to copper and increases the risk of fire. Even worse, older homes from the 1880s to the 1940s could be using knob-and-tube wiring, which is missing a ground wire. Older electrical systems are inefficient and more vulnerable to overheating and even premature failure. It’s a good idea to have your home rewired with today’s safer copper wiring. This complex job demands a licensed electrician, as they have the necessary tools and experience for safe, compliant work.
Trust the Experts for Your Electrical Problems
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing employs a team of veteran electricians who can identify and correct all kinds of electrical problems. We’ll make sure your wiring, outlets and every fixture is safe and up to code. When you next spot signs of a faulty electrical system, contact us to schedule services in your area.