Important: Electrical repairs can be dangerous and deadly. This blog is for informational and educational purposes only. Leave all electrical work in your home or business to licensed professionals.
As modern living requires the use of many appliances and gadgets that are powered by electricity, the wiring inside your home may be prone to damage, faults and other electrical problems. Knowing how to troubleshoot common electrical problems can help you keep your home running smoothly and safely.
Τhis article will discuss some of the most common electrical problems in residential wiring and how to troubleshoot them correctly. It also provides information on safety precautions that should be taken when dealing with electricity. Read on to learn more about electric safety and maintenance.
9 Common Electrical Problems in Residential Wiring and How to Troubleshoot Them
Here are 9 common electrical problems in residential wiring and how to troubleshoot them:
1. Not Enough Outlets
If you find yourself depending more and more on the use of extension cords, it may be a sign that you don’t have enough outlets. This means that your home has an inadequate supply of electrical outlets and will need to be rewired in order to meet the increased demand for electricity. When troubleshooting this issue, it is important to check that all your appliances are properly plugged into existing outlets. If not, install additional outlets to meet the power needs of your home.
2. Aluminum Wiring
In some old homes, aluminum wiring was used instead of copper. This practice is no longer recommended due to its risks. Although it is cheaper, aluminum has a tendency to corrode and can cause problems such as sparking, overheating, tripped breakers, and even electrical fires. If you think you have aluminum wiring in your home, it’s important to contact a qualified electrician immediately. The electrician will inspect your wiring and recommend appropriate repairs or replacements.
3. Plug Won’t Stay on Receptacle
Do you find that plugs won’t stay in the receptacle? This usually occurs when the receptacle is old and worn out. To fix this, you may need to replace the outlet. It’s important to hire a qualified electrician for this job, as it requires expertise.
4. Lights Flicker
If some lights in your home flicker, it may be a sign that you have an electrical wiring problem. This can be caused by loose or faulty connections, overheating, or corroded wires.
To troubleshoot this problem, check for any visible signs of damage near the affected light fixtures. If necessary, call a qualified electrician to inspect and repair the wiring.
5. Tripped Circuit Breaker
A tripped circuit breaker is a common issue in many homes and can be an indication that your home’s electrical system is overloaded. To fix this, you should first determine the cause of the overload and then unplug any appliances or devices connected to that circuit before resetting the breaker. If it trips again, it’s best to contact a professional electrician to inspect your wiring and determine the cause of the problem.
6. Ungrounded or 2-Prong Receptacles
Grounded receptacles are a must these days, as they provide an extra layer of protection and safety. If your home is not equipped with grounded receptacles, you should have all the outlets updated to include this feature. For this job, it’s best to hire a qualified electrician who can inspect your wiring and provide the necessary upgrades. Doing so will ensure that your home is up to code and prevent any potential electrical problems.
7. Overwired Panel
If your panel contains more circuits than it’s rated for, then it is likely overwired. This can pose a serious risk of fire and electrocution. It can also make it difficult to sell the house in the future. It’s important to have an electrician inspect your panel and make any necessary upgrades or repairs if the wiring is too old or has been damaged. They may recommend upgrading your panel to one with a higher amperage rating. It may also be possible to add a sub-panel.
8. Absence of GFCIs
GFCIs (ground-fault circuit interrupters) are a must for any home. They provide an extra layer of protection and safety, particularly in areas where electrical devices may come into contact with water such as the bathroom or kitchen. If your home lacks GFCIs, it is important to have them installed by a qualified electrician. Doing so will ensure that your home is up to code and that you and your family remain safe.
9. Exposed Junction Boxes
Junction boxes are meant to be covered and not exposed. Exposed junction boxes can pose a shock hazard if someone touches them. When there’s an issue with a junction box, electricians will often need to open it up to determine what is causing the problem. However, after they’ve finished their inspection, they should always cover it back with an approved box cover. This will help keep the wiring safe and protect anyone who comes in contact with it.
These are just some of the common electrical problems that can occur in residential wiring. If you notice any suspicious signs, it’s always best to contact a qualified electrician for assistance. Doing so may help prevent further damage or injury from occurring.
The Experts at M.R. Electricians Can Help
At M.R. Electricians, we understand the importance of keeping your home’s wiring safe and up to code. Our experienced technicians are knowledgeable in all areas of residential wiring and can help you troubleshoot any electrical issue quickly and efficiently. We offer a variety of services, including electrical panel upgrades, GFCI installation, and general residential wiring maintenance. We are committed to providing quality service at an affordable price and will do everything we can to make sure you’re 100% satisfied with our work. If you’re experiencing any electrical issues in your home, don’t hesitate to contact M.R. Electricians today at (301) 871-0477. Our team of professionals is here to help you get the job done right.
