6 Most Common Electrical Problems & How to Fix Them
- Written by NewsServices.com
Do you ever find yourself at a loss when trying to troubleshoot electrical problems in your home? If so, then you’re not alone. Many homeowners face issues with their electrical systems, ranging from minor inconveniences to serious safety hazards.
We’ll discuss the most common electrical problems and how you can fix them. Read on to learn more about these electrical issues, from faulty switches to overloaded circuits.
1. Lights Flickering or Dimming
One of the most common electrical problems is lights flickering or dimming. This could signify something serious, such as loose wiring, faulty circuits, or bad connections in the light fixture. It could also be caused by high-wattage bulbs being used in older fixtures.
If the lights are flickering or dimming intermittently, the first step is to check the wattage of the bulbs you’re using. Make sure you’re not using bulbs that are too high wattage for the fixture. If this is not the cause, you’ll want to call Bright Force Electrical electrician to investigate further.
2. Dead Outlet
Dead outlets are a common electrical problem. If you plug something in and it doesn’t work, chances are you have a dead spot. A dead spot is when one of the slots of an outlet isn’t working properly. This can happen if the wiring inside the outlet has become corroded or frayed or if there’s a loose wire connection.
To fix a dead spot, first, turn off the power to the circuit breaker for the outlet. Then remove the face plate from the outlet, and check the wiring. If there’s corrosion or fraying, replace the wires. If the wires appear secure, check for a loose connection, and tighten any that you find. Finally, reassemble the outlet and turn on the power.
It’s important to note that this is a job best left to a professional electrician. An improperly installed outlet can lead to further problems or even injury.
3. GFCI Receptacles Tripping
GFCI receptacles are designed to protect you from electrical shock, and they can help prevent fires. If your GFCI receptacle is tripping, it could be a sign of an electrical issue. This is because the GFCI receptacle senses a difference in the flow of electricity and interrupts the circuit to prevent you from being electrocuted.
The most common reason why GFCI receptacles trip is because of a loose or corroded wire. If a wire has been damaged due to age or moisture, it will send an imbalance of electricity and trigger the GFCI to trip.
You may need to replace the wire if it has been damaged. Finally, you should contact a licensed electrician for further diagnosis if it does not resolve the issue.
4. Strange Sounds from outlets or switches
Strange sounds from outlets or switches can be bothersome and potentially hazardous. If you hear any strange sounds from outlets or switches, it could be an indication of a serious underlying issue.
Regarding electrical outlets, buzzing and crackling sounds can be caused by loose wiring connections. Check the outlet to make sure all connections are secure. Additionally, if the outlet is hot to the touch, stop using it immediately and have a qualified electrician inspect it and make any necessary repairs.
5. Burning Smells
If you ever smell something burning and coming from any of your electrical outlets, switches, or appliances, immediately unplug the appliance and call an electrician. A burning smell is likely a dangerous electrical problem that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. It can indicate a fault in the wiring or connections, which could cause a fire hazard.
To further investigate, unplug everything from the outlet and check the wiring behind it. If you notice any damage to the wiring or exposed wire, it is best to call a qualified electrician immediately. Do not attempt to fix it yourself, as this could put you in danger and worsen the problem.
6. Sparks
When you plug something in or turn a switch on and see sparks, this is an alarming sight. Sparks can cause fires and are typically a sign of a serious issue. If you notice sparks, contact a professional electrician as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Electrical problems can be intimidating to tackle, but with a little bit of knowledge, they don’t have to be. You can save yourself time and money by being able to quickly diagnose and repair any electrical issues that come up in your home. However, if you ever feel unsure or uncomfortable working on electrical problems, it is always best to call a professional electrician for help.
