How Professionals Identify and Repair These 10 Signs of a Faulty Electrical System

Your residential electrical system controls the lights, important appliances, entertainment systems and anything else permanently connected or plugged into the wall. It’s extremely inconvenient when something suddenly fails, not to mention a potential safety hazard. Find out more about the top 10 signs of damage to the electrical system and how to address each issue.

1. Dimming, Flashing or Humming Lights

If your light fixtures often dim, flicker or buzz, your electric panel might be overloaded, or there could be a loose wiring connection. Overloaded circuits may present a fire hazard because of the risk of overheating wires. To resolve this problem, work on tightening or replacing the problematic bulbs. If that does not fix the problem, next replace the light switch or socket. For persistent problems, particularly if a buzzing sound is present, reach out to a professional so they can inspect your wiring and circuits.

2. A Burnt Plastic Odor

A melted plastic smell near outlets or appliances indicates overheating or burning wires, which in turn may cause an electrical fire. Immediately shut off power to the area using the corresponding circuit breaker and unplug any devices plugged into the outlet. Refrain from using the outlet unless you’ve had it professionally inspected and tested after repairs.

3. Sparking or Scorched Outlets

If you see sparks when plugging in or unplugging something or find scorch marks on one of the wall outlets, it’s a definite sign of faulty wiring or a short circuit. Sparks are most likely to appear because of exposed wires or a bad electrical 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 licensed electrician examine and potentially change the outlet, as they can safely keep an eye out for any potential wiring issues.

4. Hot Outlets or Switch Plates

Outlets and any switch plates that are getting hot to the touch will sometimes signal circuit overloading or faulty wiring. Heat can build up in situations where excessive electricity comes into contact with wires that aren’t capable of safely handling the higher current, increasing the risk of an electrical fire. Disconnect all devices from the affected outlet and turn off the circuit at the breaker. Contact an electrician so they can safely assess and fix the issue.

5. Heavy Reliance on Extension Cords

Extension cords are convenient to have around, but they are not supposed to be permanent solutions. Too much long-term use could lead to overloaded circuits or tripping breakers. If your home doesn’t have enough outlets to meet your electrical needs, get an electrician to install additional outlets.

6. Loose Plugs

Plugs that repeatedly fall out of outlets means worn-out receptacles. With enough time, the metal contact points found in the outlet can wear away, impacting their ability to hold plugs firmly. Bad connections can produce arcing, an electrical fire risk. Replace any loose receptacles with new ones. This is a fairly simple DIY fix, but if you prefer not to work with electricity, call a professional.

7. Missing GFCIs in Kitchens and Bathrooms

Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are required for rooms exposed to moisture, primarily kitchens and bathrooms. If these spaces in your home lack GFCIs, you’re more exposed to a dangerous electric shock if water reaches the outlet. The installation of GFCI outlets is easy to make a DIY project if you’re comfortable with electrical work. Alternatively, hiring an electrician ensures the very best installation and safety compliance.

8. Frequently Tripped Circuit Breakers or Blown Fuses

Circuit breakers and fuses help safeguard your home by cutting off power when the system overloads or a fault has been detected. If your home’s circuit breakers trip or fuses blow over and over, this usually suggests your electrical system may be unable to cope with such high demand, which can lead to overheating and fire hazards. Minimize the risk of overloading by unplugging devices and redistributing the electrical load safely between multiple circuits. If the problem continues, have an electrician inspect your system and upgrade your electrical panel or any wires if necessary.

9. Worn or Visibly Damaged Wiring

Age, wear and tear or even rodents could be the culprit behind damaged or chewed wires. Damaged wiring means the protective plastic coating is no longer covering the conductive metal, enhancing your risk of electric shocks and fires. Find and replace any damaged wiring you come across immediately. This sort of repair project is best left to a licensed electrician.

10. Antiquated Wiring

Homes built in the late 1960s and early 1970s are more likely to have aluminum wiring, which corrodes faster compared to copper and increases the risk of fire. Even earlier homes from the 1880s to the 1940s could have knob-and-tube wiring, which was not installed with a ground wire. These kinds of old, outdated electrical systems are inefficient and more vulnerable to overheating and even premature failure. Consider having your home rewired with today’s safer copper wiring. This extensive job demands a licensed electrician, as they have the essential tools and experience for safe, compliant work.

Rely on the Professionals for Your Electrical Needs

Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing employs a team of veteran electricians who can find and reverse all sorts of electrical issues. We’ll ensure your wiring, outlets and every fixture is secure and up to code. When you next see signs of a faulty electrical system, contact us to arrange services in your area.