Keeping your family safe at home is a top priority, and that includes being aware of potential electrical hazards. Electrical issues can range from a minor annoyance to a serious fire risk. Spotting and addressing these problems early can prevent dangerous and costly damage.
Here’s a guide to common electrical problems homeowners should watch out for.
Frequent breaker trips
Your circuit breaker is designed to trip and cut power to a circuit when it becomes overloaded, essentially acting as a safety device. While an occasional trip is normal, especially with a power-hungry appliance, frequent tripping is a sign of an underlying issue.
- What it means: An overloaded circuit, a short circuit, or a ground fault.
- What to do: If a breaker trips repeatedly, don’t just keep resetting it. Try moving some high-wattage appliances to a different circuit. If the problem continues, call an electrician to diagnose the cause.
Flickering, buzzing, or dimming lights
Have you ever noticed your lights flickering or dimming when a large appliance, like the refrigerator or air conditioner, kicks on? Or do you hear an unexplained buzzing sound coming from a switch or outlet?
- What it means: This can indicate loose or faulty wiring, a poor connection in the circuit, or a circuit that can’t handle the electrical load.
- What to do: First, try tightening the bulb, as this can sometimes cause flickering. If the issue persists, contact a licensed electrician for an inspection.
Hot or discolored outlets and switches
Electrical components should always be cool to the touch. Heat can be a warning sign of a dangerous problem.
- What it means: Overheating caused by a loose connection, overloaded circuit, or faulty wiring. Discoloration or scorch marks around the outlet or switch faceplate are also major red flags.
- What to do: Turn off the power to the circuit at your breaker panel immediately and call an electrician.
Burning or unusual odors
Any strange smell that can’t be explained by a normal source should be investigated immediately.
- What it means: A fishy or burning plastic smell is a critical warning sign that an electrical component is overheating or actively burning.
- What to do: Turn off the power to the area at the main breaker and evacuate your family. Do not attempt to locate the source yourself. Call a professional electrician immediately.
Outdated or faulty wiring
If you live in an older home, the electrical system may not be equipped to handle the demands of modern electronics. Certain older wiring materials, such as aluminum wiring used in some homes from 1965 to 1975, can also be a fire hazard.
- What it means: Faulty wiring can cause frequent issues and is a primary cause of electrical fires.
- What to do: If your home is 25 years or older and hasn’t had its electrical system inspected, it may be a good idea to have a licensed electrician evaluate it.
The dangers of DIY electrical repairs
While you can perform some simple safety checks, never attempt to do complex electrical repairs yourself. Working with electricity without the proper knowledge and training is extremely dangerous and can lead to severe injury, electrocution, or fire.
Your electrical safety action plan
- Listen and look for warning signs. Pay attention to flickering lights, odd smells, and other strange occurrences.
- Install safety devices. Ensure your home is equipped with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) in wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens, and Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) to protect against electrical arcs.
- Never overload outlets or extension cords. If you constantly need more outlets, have an electrician install more.
- Inspect cords and appliances. Regularly check all electrical cords for fraying or damage and replace them if necessary.
- Call a professional. For any electrical problem beyond a simple lightbulb change, always hire a licensed and qualified electrician.
By staying vigilant and knowing when to call a professional, you can keep your home and your family safe from electrical dangers.