Guest Post - Common Electrical Problems and How to Troubleshoot Them

Electrical problems are an inevitable part of homeownership or renting. From tripped circuit breakers to flickering lights, electrical issues can cause inconvenience and even safety hazards. While it's important to take electrical problems seriously and ensure your safety, not every problem requires the expertise of an electrician. In fact, many electrical issues can be identified and resolved with some basic troubleshooting steps. 

However, it's important to note that if you encounter an electrical problem that is beyond your troubleshooting abilities or poses a serious safety hazard, it's best to call a licensed electrician. Attempting to fix complex issues yourself can not only be dangerous but may also cause further damage to your electrical system. Remember, your safety and the safety of those around you should always be the top priority.

In this article, we'll explore some of the most common electrical problems and provide tips on how to troubleshoot them before calling in the professionals. By understanding these troubleshooting techniques, you can save time, money, and potentially prevent future electrical problems.

Circuit Breaker Frequently Trips

If your circuit breaker trips frequently, it's a sign that something is causing an overload on the circuit. Start by unplugging all appliances and turning off all lights on the affected circuit. Then, reset the breaker and plug in and turn on appliances and lights one at a time until the breaker trips again. This will help you identify the specific appliance or device that is causing the overload.

If you can't find the source of the overload, it's time to call an electrician. They can help you identify and fix the problem, which could include upgrading your electrical panel or installing dedicated circuits for high-powered appliances.

Outlets Don't Work

If one or more outlets in your home don't work, start by checking if the circuit breaker is tripped. If not, try plugging in a different device to see if the problem is with the outlet or the device. If the outlet is still not working, check for loose connections or damaged wiring. You may need to replace the outlet or call an electrician to fix the wiring.

Lights Flicker or Dim

If your lights flicker or dim, it could be a sign of a loose or damaged connection in the electrical circuit. Check the bulbs to make sure they're screwed in tightly and not damaged. If that doesn't solve the problem, check the switch and the wiring connections. If you're not comfortable working with electrical wiring, call an electrician.

Electrical Shocks

If you're experiencing electrical shocks when you touch a light switch or appliance, it's a sign of a serious problem. First, make sure the device is properly grounded. If it is, you may have a fault in the wiring or appliance. Turn off the power to the device and call an electrician immediately to avoid the risk of electric shock.

Burning Smell

If you smell burning or see smoke coming from an outlet or appliance, turn off the power immediately and call an electrician. This could be a sign of an electrical fire, which is extremely dangerous. 

Overloaded Circuits

Overloading a circuit can cause overheating, which can lead to fires or damage to your electrical system. Avoid overloading circuits by unplugging appliances when they're not in use and spreading high-powered appliances across multiple circuits. If you're unsure whether a circuit is overloaded, call an electrician to evaluate your system.

Power Surges

Power surges can damage electronics and appliances, and they're often caused by lightning strikes or problems with the electrical grid. Protect your electronics by unplugging them during storms or using surge protectors. If you're experiencing frequent power surges, call an electrician to evaluate your system.

Jenn Walker is a freelance writer, blogger, dog-enthusiast, and avid beach goer operating out of Southern New Jersey.

Electrical Items in Your House You Might Not Realize Need Replacing

Your house is full of electrical items that you might not realize the need to be replaced. While they may still work, they could also pose a fire hazard, and it's best to get them taken care of asap. Here are some of these items.

Light Sockets

Light bulbs are a must inside your home and are also imperative in other areas of your property. They don't fail often, but one thing that does happen is that their cords will become loose, which could cause them to fall out and create a tripping hazard. Their cords also get damaged occasionally, which may mean you can't turn the lights on. If they have stayed for several years, consider replacing them.

Switches

Switches are necessary for controlling the flow of electricity from a particular part of your home to an electrical device – for example, a light fixture or a lamp. Over time, switches crumble, get damaged, and become loose, making it difficult to turn on the lights or plug in appliances. The best thing to do is replace them before they become hazardous. If you see that the coverings of your switches are coming off, then it's best to replace them. Also, rethink having them installed in high-traffic areas such as hallways and kitchens.

Circuit Breakers

A circuit breaker is an essential device in your home's electrical system. It prevents the flow of excessive electricity and also trips when it senses that there's a short circuit or power overload in an effort to protect your home from electrical fires. Since they are electrical components installed in your electrical box, they tend to get damaged over time, and unless you’re regularly tripping them, you’ll likely fail to notice immediately. The best thing to do when you do notice though, is replace your circuit breakers either yourself or through a professional when you notice lights flickering, tripping, or strange noises and the usual fixes aren’t working.

Fuses

A fuse is a device that prevents the flow of electricity by interrupting the circuit if there is an overload. You will find fuses in your electrical boxes, which are essential in controlling the flow of electricity to a particular area of your home. Fuses eventually get damaged as time passes, so you must replace them as soon as possible. If you hear popping noises when you try to turn on a light switch or appliance, then it's best to replace the fuse.

Refrain from ignoring any of these electrical components when you notice there’s damage or a serious need for replacement, as they may pose a fire threat to your home if left unchecked. Replacing them can ensure that your home and family are safe. Remember to schedule the services of an electrician if you have any electrical problems in your house. They'll not only address the concerns but also inspect other parts of your electrical system for safety purposes.

Electrical Projects For Your Home That Need a Professional

Electrical work can be dangerous, and it is important to make sure that any electrical projects in your home are done by a professional. Below are three examples of electrical projects that should only be completed by a professional.

Replacing or Installing a New Electrical Panel

The electrical panel is the heart of your home's electrical system. It is responsible for distributing power from the utility company to the rest of your home. Replacing an old or damaged electrical panel through some residential electrical installs is a job that should only be done by a professional. This is because working with electricity can be very dangerous, and only a trained professional will know how to properly handle and install an electrical panel. 

Installing New Wiring

If you are planning on renovating your home or adding an addition, you may need to have new wiring installed. This is another job that should only be done by a professional electrician as it involves working with live electricity. A professional will know how to properly route the new wiring so that it meets all building code requirements. 

Converting Your Home to Solar Power

Solar power is a great way to save money on your energy bills and be more environmentally friendly. However, installing solar panels is not a DIY project. This is because solar panels need to be connected to your home's electrical system, and this must be done by a qualified electrician. A professional will also be able to help you determine how many solar panels you need for your home and where they should be installed for optimal performance. 

Working with electricity can be very dangerous, and any electrical projects in your home should only be completed by a professional electrician. Hiring a qualified electrician will ensure that the job is done safely and up to code. If you are planning any renovations or additions that will require new electrical work, be sure to contact a professional electrician for help.

Moving to an Old Home? Electrical Upgrades You Need to Make

Older homes are valued for their character, history, and charm, but they may also be woefully out-of-date. When you buy an older home, you will likely have to upgrade its electrical components to make it safe and functional. The best time to do this is as soon as possible, before any electrical problems occur. If you are moving into an older home, here are four possible electrical upgrades you may face.

Electrical Upgrades You Need to Make for an Old Home

Wiring

Aluminum wiring, asbestos-insulated wiring, and knob-and-tube wiring are some examples of wiring techniques that were phased out over the past few decades for safety reasons. These older wires are more likely to fail and pose a fire hazard and health risk. If the wiring in your older home is over ten years old, it's time to modernize. Rather than the DIY route, always recruit a professional electrician anytime you update your home's electrical components.

Additional Outlets

These days, modern living requires a lot of appliances and electronics. Unlike previous generations, it's normal to see a television set in every room and multiple appliances crowding the kitchen counter. Power strips and extension cords can easily overload an old outlet, so additional outlets will be necessary if you hope to maintain your normal, twenty-first century lifestyle. Outlets placed near water sources, such as kitchen and bathroom outlets, should be GFCI outlets. These outlets are designed to prevent electrical shock resulting from water exposure.

New Electrical Panel

The electrical panel houses all the circuit breakers that control the power going to different areas of the home. An outdated or rusted electrical panel can "trip" more often, which is a sign that it needs to be replaced. Homes built before the 1980's may contain fuse boxes rather than electrical panels, which are now obsolete. If your old home is outfitted with a fuse box, it's best to replace it with a new electrical panel, which is safer and easier to maintain.

LED Lighting

LED lighting is more energy efficient, produces less heat, and provides better quality light than traditional incandescent lighting. LEDs also last longer than the alternative, requiring less maintenance and saving money in the long run.

Ignoring your home's outdated electrical system can have many consequences ranging from a slightly higher insurance premium to possible house fires. To protect your family and preserve your investment, get ahead of any electrical problems by updating your older home.