Here’s How Professionals Find and Fix These 10 Signs of a Faulty Electrical System
Your house’s electrical system controls your lights, key appliances, entertainment devices and everything else hardwired or plugged into an outlet. It’s highly inconvenient when something acts up, not to mention a potential safety hazard. Discover the top 10 signs of damage to the electrical system and how to resolve each issue.
1. Fading, Flickering or Humming Lights
If your light fixtures regularly dim, flicker or buzz, the circuit could be overloaded, or there could be a frayed wiring connection. Overloaded circuits may present a fire hazard due to overheating wiring. To fix the problem, try tightening or changing the faulty bulbs. If that does not fix the problem, next replace the light switch or socket. For continued problems, particularly if a buzzing sound starts, contact a professional so they can inspect your wiring and circuits.
2. A Burnt or Melted Plastic Odor
A burning smell near outlets or appliances indicates overheating or burning wires, which could lead to an electrical fire. Immediately turn off power to the area using the corresponding circuit breaker and unplug any devices connected to the outlet. Refrain from using the outlet before you’ve had it professionally checked and tested after repairs.
3. Sparking or Scorch Marks on Outlets
If you suddenly see sparks when plugging in or unplugging something or see scorch marks on a socket, it’s a definitive sign of damaged wiring or a short circuit. Sparks will happen if there’s exposed wires or a loose connection, leading to electrical arcing strong enough to cause severe burns, appliance damage and even fires. Stop using the outlet and switch off the related circuit breaker. Have a local electrician check and potentially replace the outlet, as they can safely keep an eye out for any underlying wiring problems.
4. Warm Outlets or Switch Plates
Outlets or switch plates that are getting hot to the touch may indicate circuit overloading or faulty wiring. Heat may reach dangerous levels in situations where too much electricity reaches wires that aren’t rated to handle the load, increasing the risk of an electrical fire. Unplug any devices from the damaged outlet and turn off the circuit at the breaker. Contact an electrician so they can properly diagnose and fix the problem.
5. Too Much Dependence on Using Extension Cords
Extension cords are useful tools, but they are not supposed to be permanent solutions. Inappropriate use will sometimes lead to overloaded circuits or tripping breakers. If the electric doesn’t have enough outlets to safely meet your electrical needs, hire an electrician to install additional outlets.
6. Loose Plugs
Plugs that constantly fall out of outlets means worn-out sockets. With enough time, the metal contact points found in the outlet can wear down, hindering their ability to grip plugs firmly. Bad connections can produce arcing, an electrical fire risk. Switch out any loose receptacles with new ones. This is a straightforward DIY fix, but if you’re uncomfortable working with electricity, call a professional.
7. No GFCIs in the Kitchen or Bathroom
Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are required for any spaces exposed to water or humid conditions, namely kitchens or bathrooms. If these spaces in your home lack GFCIs, you’re at risk of electric shock if water reaches the outlet. Installing GFCI outlets is a good idea for a DIY project if you’re comfortable with electrical work. Alternatively, calling a professional electrician ensures the very best installation and safety compliance.
8. Constantly Tripping Breakers or Blown Fuses
Circuit breakers and fuses help safeguard your home by cutting off power when the system is overloaded or a fault is detected. If the circuit breakers trip or fuses blow regularly, this is usually a sign that your electrical system struggles to cope with that high of a power demand, which can lead to overheating and fire hazards. Avoid overloading by unplugging devices and reallocating the electrical load across different circuits. If the problem isn’t solved, have an electrician assess the entire system and upgrade your electrical panel or any wires when required.
9. Frayed or Bite Marks on Wiring
Age, wear and tear or even a rat infestation can be the underlying problem behind frayed or chewed wires. Damaged wiring reveals the conductive metal, increasing the risk of electric shocks and fires. Find and replace any damaged wiring you come across as soon as possible. This repair is best left to a seasoned and insured electrician.
10. Antiquated Wiring
Homes built in the late 1960s and early 1970s could have aluminum wiring, which corrodes faster than copper and increases the risk of fire. Even worse, older homes from the 1880s to the 1940s may contain knob-and-tube wiring, which is missing a ground wire. Older electrical systems are less efficient and more exposed to overheating and failure. Consider having your home rewired with today’s safer copper wiring. This major job demands a licensed electrician, as they have the necessary tools and experience for safety and code compliance.
Trust the Experts for Your Electrical Needs
Rob's Albertan Service Experts has a team of certified, insured electricians who can find and resolve all sorts of electrical problems. We’ll ensure your wiring, outlets and every fixture is safe and up to code. The next time you notice signs of a faulty electrical system, contact us to schedule services in your area.
