9 Common Electrical Issues in Homes and How to Fix Them
Your home’s electrical system powers everything from lighting and appliances to HVAC systems and security devices. Over time, normal wear and tear, as well as outdated components, can lead to electrical issues. Being aware of these problems will allow you to act quickly to prevent safety hazards and protect your home.
1. Tripping Circuit Breakers
A breaker trips when the electrical load on a circuit exceeds its safe limit. This often occurs when too many devices are plugged in simultaneously or when a power surge occurs. To restore power, locate your electrical panel, find the breaker that has tripped, and reset it to the “on” position.
If a breaker continues to trip, it could point to a more serious problem, such as faulty wiring, a short circuit, or an overloaded system. If the same breaker trips more than once, contact a licensed electrician to inspect the system and make any needed repairs or upgrades.
2. Flickering Lights
Flickering lights are often caused by a loose bulb or a poor connection at the socket. Start by turning off the light and checking that the bulb is screwed in tightly.
If that does not solve the problem, the issue could be related to faulty wiring. Multiple flickering lights, especially when appliances turn on, may indicate a more serious electrical issue that requires professional attention.
3. Dead Outlets
If an outlet stops working, start by plugging the item into another outlet to confirm whether the issue is with the outlet or the device itself. If the outlet is in your kitchen or bathroom, it may be a GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) model. You can usually reset these by pushing in the red button.
4. Electrical Surges
Electrical surges are often sudden and unpredictable. To protect your electronics, use surge protectors for any devices you leave plugged in on a regular basis. During thunderstorms, when the risk of surges is especially high, it’s also a good idea to unplug nonessential devices. For a more comprehensive solution, consider having a professional install whole-home surge protection.
5. Climbing Energy Bills
If your energy bills continue to rise, several changes can make a significant difference. Start by replacing outdated bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs. Unplugging appliances when not in use can also help reduce standby power consumption. Additionally, consider upgrading to more energy-efficient appliances.
6. Hot Light Switches
If a light switch feels unusually warm, it could be a sign of an underlying electrical problem. While dimmer switches may run slightly warm during use, standard switches should not. Unusual heat, discoloration, or a burning smell are all signs that the switch may be malfunctioning. In these cases, it’s best to contact a licensed electrician to inspect and address the issue.
7. Scorch Marks on Outlets
Scorch marks around an outlet are a sign that something may be seriously wrong with the wiring or electrical load. These marks, often dark or discolored areas around the plug openings, can indicate overheating or sparking inside the outlet. Stop using the outlet immediately and contact a professional to replace it.
8. Buzzing Sounds
Buzzing sounds coming from outlets, switches, or electrical panels can be an early warning sign of wiring issues or faulty components. A buzzing sound is especially concerning if it comes from your electrical panel, as it may indicate a loose connection, overloaded breaker, or failing component. These problems can pose serious safety risks. If you hear persistent buzzing, contact a licensed electrician right away to identify the source and prevent potential hazards.
9. Old Wiring
Outdated or deteriorating wiring can cause a range of issues, including flickering lights, frequent breaker trips, buzzing sounds, or burning odors. These are often signs that the wiring in your home is no longer safe. If your home is older or you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, it’s important to have a licensed electrician evaluate the system. Addressing wiring problems early helps prevent fire hazards and ensures your electrical system meets current safety standards.
Contact Your Local Experts
At 1st Choice Service Group Heating & Air, we have been serving the residents of Asheville, NC and the surrounding areas since 2007. You can count on us for all your electrical system needs, including rewiring, panel upgrades, and whole-home surge protection. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced electricians.