As a homeowner, you depend on your electrical system to power your daily activities. However, electrical problems are inevitable and can occur at any time. When faced with electrical issues, it’s important to act fast and address them promptly to avoid costly damages and potential hazards. In this blog post, we’ll discuss five common electrical problems and how to fix them.
Problem #1: Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping
A circuit breaker trips to protect your home’s electrical system from overloading. If your circuit breaker trips frequently, it could be a sign of a faulty electrical system. Here’s how to fix it:
- Unplug all electrical devices and turn off all lights on the tripped circuit.
- Reset the circuit breaker by switching it to the off position and then to the on position.
- If the circuit breaker trips again, contact a licensed electrician to assess the situation.
Problem #2: Dead Outlets
A dead outlet is an outlet that doesn’t provide power. Dead outlets can be caused by a variety of issues, including a tripped circuit breaker or a loose wire. Here’s how to fix it:
- Check if the circuit breaker is tripped.
- If the circuit breaker isn’t tripped, turn off the power to the outlet and remove the outlet cover plate.
- Check for any loose or disconnected wires and reconnect them if necessary.
- If the outlet still doesn’t work, contact a licensed electrician to assess the situation.
Problem #3: Flickering Lights
Flickering lights are not only annoying but can also be a sign of a more significant electrical problem. Here’s how to fix it:
- Check if the light bulb is screwed in tightly.
- If the bulb is tight and the flickering persists, try replacing the light bulb with a new one.
- If the flickering continues, contact a licensed electrician to assess the situation.
Problem #4: High Electricity Bills
If you notice that your electricity bill has increased significantly, it could be a sign of an electrical problem. Here’s how to fix it:
- Unplug all electrical devices when not in use.
- Replace incandescent light bulbs with LED bulbs.
- Consider upgrading to energy-efficient appliances.
- If the problem persists, contact a licensed electrician to assess the situation.
Problem #5: Overloaded Circuit
An overloaded circuit can be dangerous and can lead to a fire hazard. Here’s how to fix it:
- Unplug some of the electrical devices on the circuit.
- Move some of the electrical devices to a different circuit.
- Consider adding a new circuit to distribute the electrical load.
- If the problem persists, contact a licensed electrician to assess the situation.
FAQs
Q1: Can I fix electrical problems on my own?
A: While some electrical problems can be fixed on your own, it’s important to know your limits. Attempting to fix a complex electrical issue can be dangerous and lead to costly damages. It’s best to contact a licensed electrician to assess the situation and provide the necessary repairs.
Q2: What should I do if I experience an electrical emergency?
A: If you experience an electrical emergency such as an electrical fire or electrocution, call 911 immediately. Do not attempt to address the issue on your own.
Q3: How often should I have my electrical system inspected?
A: It’s recommended to have your electrical system inspected by a licensed electrician every 5 to 10 years, depending on the age of your home and the condition of your electrical system.
Q4: What should I do if I notice a burning smell coming from an outlet?
A: If you notice a burning smell coming from an outlet, turn off the power to the outlet and do not use it until a licensed electrician can assess the situation. A burning smell is a sign of a serious electrical problem that requires immediate attention.
Q5: Can old electrical wiring be dangerous?
A: Yes, old electrical wiring can be dangerous and can lead to electrical fires or electrocution. If your home has old wiring, it’s important to have it inspected by a licensed electrician and consider upgrading it to a safer and more efficient system.
Conclusion
Electrical problems can be frustrating and dangerous, but with prompt action and the help of a licensed electrician, they can be resolved quickly and effectively. At East Valley Handyman, we understand the importance of a safe and reliable electrical system in your home. Contact us today at +1(480)-500-6935 for all your electrical needs.