Electricians encounter various electrical issues in homes every day, with some problems occurring more frequently than others, such as flickering lights, tripped circuit breakers, and faulty outlets. At Paragon Electric , we never recommend DIY repairs, but it’s important to recognize common electrical problems and understand how they can be resolved. This guide explores five common electrical issues and explains the professional repairs we would perform to restore your electrical system to proper working order.
1. Circuit Breakers Trip Frequently
Losing power in parts of your home can be frustrating, especially when you are in the middle of using an appliance or other electrical device. Frequent circuit breaker trips often indicate an overloaded circuit, where too much power is being drawn, causing the breaker to shut off to prevent overheating and potential hazards.
If you find this happening frequently, it’s a sign that your electrical system may need an upgrade to handle the demand. One of our professionals can assess your home’s electrical load and determine whether adding a new circuit or upgrading your existing panel is necessary. Adding a circuit or replacing your electrical panel will restore functionality and enhance the safety and reliability of your home’s electrical system.
2. Flickering Lights
Flickering lights or lights that fluctuate in intensity can be a sign of poor connections within a ceiling fixture. It’s important to address these issues promptly to prevent potential hazards such as sparking or arcing, which can lead to electrical fires. Before calling for professional help, check that the lightbulbs you’re using are the correct wattage and ensure they are screwed in securely. If the flickering persists, try replacing the bulb with a new one, as sometimes defective bulbs from manufacturers can be the culprit.
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, the problem may be related to faulty wiring within the overhead light. In such cases, our electrician will need to inspect the fixture and its wiring. They will look for issues like loose connections, damaged wires, or faulty components. If necessary, they may recommend replacing the entire light fixture and can help you pick one that matches the room’s style and your budget.
3. Faulty or Unsafe Outlets
Several issues can affect household outlets, with a common problem being plugs that do not stay securely in place. If a plug falls out easily, there is a risk of arcing, which can lead to overheating and potentially cause an electrical fire if sparks ignite nearby dust or flammable materials. Having one of our professionals replace a faulty outlet is a straightforward and cost-effective measure that can help prevent electrical hazards.
Additionally, it’s crucial to have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFI) outlets installed in bathrooms and kitchens. These outlets are designed to detect ground faults or electrical imbalances and quickly cut off power to prevent shocks and electrocution. Installing and maintaining GFI outlets in these locations enhances safety by providing an extra layer of protection.
4. Electrical Shocks
You should never get shocked when plugging something in or flipping a switch. If you feel a mild shock when you do this, you may have a faulty appliance or problematic wiring. Our electricians recommend refraining from troubleshooting this problem yourself. You should always contact us to determine the reason for the shock.
5. Warm Outlet or Switch
If you notice a light switch or outlet feels warm or hot to the touch, it’s a critical safety issue. Sometimes, the problem may not be immediately obvious through touching the switch or outlet alone; you might also detect an unusual odor, such as a fishy smell or even an unpleasant scent resembling urine. These odors are often due to burning plastic and heat-resistant chemicals in wiring insulation.
You should immediately turn off the circuit breaker connected to the affected area and contact us to inspect and repair the switch or outlet before using it again.
Professional Electricians in Plantation
At Paragon Electric , we have served the residents of Plantation, FL and the surrounding areas for over two decades. Whether you need an electrical repair, whole-house rewiring, or an electrical panel upgrade, we can help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced team members.
