Electrical systems are quite complicated and require technical expertise to repair, maintain, or install. However, some electrical issues can be tackled with basic knowledge of the system, simple evaluation and repair skills, and appropriate tools. Here is a list of common electrical problems experienced by homeowners and simple solutions to try before calling an electrician.
Power Outages
Power outages are common occurrences in most households and result from different causes. A simple cause may be an electrical overload resulting from using too many electrical gadgets on one circuit. To solve this, unplug some devices and reset the circuit breaker. In case of severe outages, the problem may be a damaged electrical line, blown fuse, or tripped circuit breaker. If the above solution fails, contact a licensed electrician immediately.
Electrical Surges
Electrical surges can be caused by weather changes, power issues, or an electrical storm. This issue can result in the destruction of electrical systems in your home. A simple solution would be to install a surge protector in the main socket, which will protect all electrical gadgets from power surges. In case of severe electrical surges, contact a licensed electrician to evaluate the extent of the problem.
Faulty Electrical Outlets
Electrical outlets that do not work or spark when plugging equipment into them can be quite dangerous. The first solution is to switch off the circuit breaker and examine the wiring. In some cases, the wiring may be loose or damaged and require fixing. For a faulty outlet, replace it with a new one. In severe cases, contact a licensed electrician to help diagnose and fix the issue.
Overloaded Circuit Breaker
An overloaded circuit breaker results from too many electrical gadgets on one circuit. When this happens, the circuit breaker trips, shutting off the circuit and causing a power outage. A simple solution is to reset the circuit breaker switch or switch off some of the appliances on the circuit to reduce the load. In severe cases, contact a licensed electrician to help you.
Flickering Lights
Flickering lights may result from fluctuating power or an overloaded circuit. To solve this issue, determine if the issue affects one bulb or the entire area. In case of a single bulb issue, replace it. In severe cases, the issue may be due to damaged wiring or loose connections in the electrical system. Call a licensed electrician to evaluate and diagnose the problem.
Electrical systems may be complex, but some common electrical issues can be resolved by homeowners. However, in severe cases, it's always advisable to seek the help of a licensed electrician from an electrical company. Remember, your safety and that of your family should be a top priority; hence, ensure that all electrical systems are maintained and installed professionally.
Share20 November 2023
When you hear the word "electrician," what comes to mind? Some people imagine a contractor holding a sparking wire in their hands. But in fact, electricians do their best to avoid sparking and zapping anything. They spent a lot of time learning how to avoid such issues as they can be dangerous, leading to fires and injuries. Electricians do work hard to run wires through homes, install outlets, and mount lights. The just aim to do so without zapping anyone! If you'd like to learn more about electricians and their work, then you're invited to read the articles on this blog.