Getting to Know the Most Common Electrical Problems

Have you noticed issues with your home’s electrical system? Are you unsure what is going on? Not only are electrical problems annoying, but they can also be dangerous. Because of this, you must act fast and seek repairs as soon as you notice an issue.  

It’s important to note that electrical problems can occur anywhere there is electricity. In some cases, the situation will require an easy fix, such as installing a new contactor relay. However, in other situations, it may require more in-depth, extensive repairs. Keep reading to learn more about the most common electrical issues that may occur. Knowledge is power when it comes to your home’s electrical system.

Surges (Transients)

Surges are the fast striking of light. These are caused by higher voltage disruptions in the flow of electricity. These surges usually occur for just a fraction of a second. Unfortunately, transients can cause serious damage to any electronic device that is connected.

If you notice that transients are happening more often than usual, you should probably have the electrical connections checked. An electrician can help you with this.

Loose Outlet Plugs

If you are dealing with a loose outlet plug, the first step is to turn the breaker off. Be sure to double-check the voltage going to the outlet. You can use a voltmeter to do this or just plug something in. At this point, if everything checks out with the voltage, remove the cover plate, and add shims until the outlet is flush with your wall.

Light Switches Not Working Properly

If you have dimmer switches that are not adjusting properly, this may be because of poor installation or because low-quality products were used. If you have recently moved into a new house and discovered that the switches aren’t controlling anything, it may be a sign the fixtures were removed. It may also be a fault with the outlet, wiring, or circuit.

Bulbs That Burn Out Frequently

Are you tired of changing lightbulbs all the time? If you haven’t changed the type of bulb you use, then the issue may be another type of electrical issue in your home. There are many reasons why bulbs may burn out frequently. It could be because of improper air circulation, a too tightly installed bulb, high voltage, or something else.

One solution is to see if the holder is depleted or loose. If everything seems fine, but bulbs continue to burn out, it is good to consult with an electrician to determine the underlying issue.

Dimming or Flickering Lights

If you notice your lights are flickering or dimming, it could be an indication of a poor connection. Eventually, this problem may lead to arcing. Corroded or loose connections that make intermittent contact may also result in overheating, sparking, and eventually a fire. It is best to have this problem checked out as soon as possible, as it will not resolve on its own.

Electrical Shocks

Being shocked isn’t a pleasant experience. While most of these are mild, often like a static shock, it is a reminder that electricity is dangerous when not used properly or safely.

Usually, electrical shocks will occur if you turn the device off or on. The issue may be with the appliance, or it could be with the wiring. You can test the issue by plugging in a different device and see if you can reproduce the results. However, this is also just putting you at risk for another electrical shock, so it may be best to talk to an electrician.

Keep Your Home Electrical System Safe

To ensure you are not facing any hazards or issues, it is essential to regularly inspect and check out your electrical system. In most cases, if there is an issue, one of the best things you can do is to hire an electrician. They can figure out the underlying issue and provide the best possible solution to resolve the problem.