Whether we like it or not, electrical issues can and will pop up when you least expect it. Figuring out where the problem originated from can take time and effort. This article gives an overview of some of the most common electrical problems faced at home and how to troubleshoot them with simple methods. With the right knowledge and guidance, you can diagnose basic electrical problems confidently.
However, no matter what electrical issue you may be dealing with in your home, always use caution when troubleshooting any problems or if you are attempting to repair anything. Electrical issues can be dangerous, so contact a professional if you’re unsure of anything.
7 Common Electrical Problems in Homes and How to Troubleshoot Them
Having been in the electrical field for decades, we’ve seen many issues arise from homeowners and tenants alike. Here are some common electrical problems that you may run into in your home and tips on how to troubleshoot them:
- Tripped Circuit Breaker or Blown Fuse
If the power has gone out in your home, it could be due to a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse. To check for a tripped circuit breaker, look at the electrical panel in your home and try resetting the breakers one by one to see if it fixes the problem. If it does not, you may have an overloaded circuit requiring professional attention. Contact a professional electrician as soon as possible to take a look at your electrical panel.
- Unusually High Electric Bills
If your electricity bills are rising unexpectedly, it could be due to old wiring or appliances needing replacement. Hiring a professional to upgrade your electrical system with new and energy-efficient appliances can easily fix this issue. If it’s the peak of summer, your AC may be the culprit; check to ensure it’s running efficiently.
- Outlets not Working Properly
This is a fairly common problem. If an outlet isn’t working properly, there could be a number of different causes that need to be investigated. It could be due to faulty wiring or a circuit breaker problem. Try resetting any present GFCI outlets, and if that doesn’t work, call an electrician to have it checked out. If the outlets are warm to the touch, this is a sign of an overloaded circuit, or a loose connection and professional help should be sought immediately.
- Lights Dimming or Flickering
If you have dimming or flickering lights in your home, it is not a ghost problem. This can be traced to a number of issues. It could be due to faulty wiring or possibly bad connections between the light fixture and the wall. If dealing with an older home, you may have old wiring that needs to be replaced. To find the source of this issue, call a professional electrician who will know how to inspect and replace any components needed properly.
- Electrical Shocks
If you experience shocks when plugging something in or touching an outlet or appliance, it could be due to faulty wiring, poor grounding, or the presence of moisture. Do not try to fix this issue yourself; seek professional help immediately, as this is a serious safety hazard.
- Plug Won’t Stay in Outlet
If a plug won’t stay in an outlet, there could be several causes. It may be due to the age of the outlet or possibly a problem with the plug itself. Try bending any metal tabs that are present, so they fit more snugly into the corresponding slots of your receptacle. If this doesn’t work, you may have to purchase a new receptacle and replace the old one. Before doing this, it’s best to contact an electrician who can inspect and replace any components needed.
- Your Bulbs Burn Out Too Quickly
Are your light bulbs burning out quickly? This could be due to a loose circuit connection. It’s also possible that you may not be using bulbs of the correct wattage. If your socket is rated for a 60-watt bulb but you’re using a 75-watt, this could be the cause. Always check what type of wattage your socket is rated for before replacing any bulbs.
Bottom Line
These are just a few of the common electrical problems you may experience in your home and some tips for troubleshooting them. It’s important to remember that if you feel uncomfortable handling any type of electrical work, it is best to contact an electrical contractor.
When it comes to electrical safety in your home, do not take any chances. Hire a licensed electrician to make sure all of your wiring is up to code and that all fixtures are properly installed to prevent issues down the line.
Let M.R. Electricians Take Care of Your Home’s Electrical Needs
At M.R Electricians, we prioritize safety and quality in our work. Our technicians are licensed electricians who will ensure your home is safe from any electrical hazards or deficiencies. We offer comprehensive services for all your residential and commercial needs, including installations, repairs, maintenance, remodels, and more. Give us a call today at (301) 871-0477 to get started.
