Electrical

Electrical issues in homes are among the most common, yet potentially hazardous, challenges homeowners face. From flickering lights and frequent circuit breaker trips to outdated wiring, these issues not only pose inconveniences but also significant safety risks. Electrical faults are a leading cause of residential fires, underscoring the importance of timely identification and resolution of such problems. Homeowners should be vigilant about signs of electrical issues, including unusual buzzing sounds from outlets, a burning smell without a visible source, and outlets or switches that feel warm to the touch. These symptoms may indicate overloaded circuits, poor wiring, or failing electrical components, all of which require immediate attention.

Beyond the immediate danger of fire or electrocution, electrical problems can also lead to more subtle but equally concerning issues, such as energy wastage and increased utility bills. For instance, an inefficient electrical system can cause power surges, leading to damage to appliances and electronic devices, thereby shortening their lifespan. To ensure safety and efficiency, homeowners are advised to have their electrical systems regularly inspected by a professional, especially in older homes that may not be up to current electrical codes. Simple preventive measures, such as not overloading outlets, using surge protectors, and ensuring that all electrical work is performed by licensed electricians, can significantly mitigate the risks associated with residential electrical systems. Awareness and proactive maintenance are key to navigating the complexities of home electrical issues while safeguarding both the property and its occupants.

Sparks When Plugging Into An Outlet Sparks When Plugging Into An Outlet Should you be concerned about getting shocked or a fire when your outlet sparks while plugging in? Neutral Bar With Two Wires in One Hole Neutral Bar With Two Wires in One Hole Two neutral wires under one screw or in one slot on the neutral bar of an electrical panel is a safety concern. Wire clamps – bushings & connectors Wire clamps – bushings & connectors Protecting electrical wires from sharp metal edges is easy to do with... Knob and tube wiring Knob and tube wiring Older homes, built in the 1800's and up to the 1930,s often used Knob and Tube wiring. Even a few after these years installed it. The're homes today that still have Knob & Tube wiring in use. Is Aluminum Wiring Safe or a Fire Hazard In Your House? Is Aluminum Wiring Safe or a Fire Hazard In Your House? Million of homes have aluminum wiring and it is still used by electricians. However... Light Switches Warm or Hot to the Touch Light Switches Warm or Hot to the Touch How hot is too hot for light switches? Rusted and Corroded Electrical Panels Rusted and Corroded Electrical Panels When a panel is rusted or corroded maintenance, review or replacement may be needed. Knockouts Missing In Electrical Panels – Hazardous But Easy to Correct Knockouts Missing In Electrical Panels – Hazardous But Easy to Correct Knock-outs missing in electrical panels are hazardous but easy to correct. Electrical Panel Covers – Hinges, Screws and Latch Parts Electrical Panel Covers – Hinges, Screws and Latch Parts The most common part of an electrical panel to go missing is one or two of the hinges, also... Missing Electrical Panel Covers Create A Number of Safety Hazards Missing Electrical Panel Covers Create A Number of Safety Hazards All missing panel covers need to be replaced. The covers protect the electrical components of the panel and provides safety. Missing “Dead Front” Covers on Electrical Panels is Serious Missing “Dead Front” Covers on Electrical Panels is Serious Can you guess how the panel cover called a "Dead Front" cover got its name? Ungrounded outlet Ungrounded outlet Older homes often have un-grounded outlets, or an outlet may be miss wired. Grounding provides exterior protection from shock, but there are some easy fixes. Smoke or burn marks on outlets Smoke or burn marks on outlets Learn about the several reasons that outlets get burn marks or smoke on the facing ... Reverse Polarity on Outlet and How To Fix Reverse Polarity on Outlet and How To Fix If you plug a TV into a outlet with reversed polarity it will work. However, some items should not be plugged, but the fix is simply... Why Paint On Outlets Can Be A Safety Concern Why Paint On Outlets Can Be A Safety Concern Painted outlets can look cool but they can also create a hazardous condition. AFCI Breakers and outlets AFCI Breakers and outlets Do you know the difference between AFCI and GFCI? This could save your life! Exterior Light Not Caulked or Sealed At Wall Exterior Light Not Caulked or Sealed At Wall Unsealed exterior lights may allow moisture to intrude into the wall or fixture: keeping sealed is helps prevent mold. Insulation Frayed or Damaged on Electrical Wiring Insulation Frayed or Damaged on Electrical Wiring Insulation that is nicked or damaged is a safety concern. Overheating of a circuit may cause the insulation to melt or fall off. GFCI Outlets And Where They Are Required GFCI Outlets And Where They Are Required Where do you put GFCI outets? We know that they go in kitchens and bathrooms, but they also should be... Hot circuit breaker Hot circuit breaker Is you electrical breaker "hot" or a little "warm"? Is the panel warm when you touch it? Breaker keeps tripping Breaker keeps tripping Breaker keep tripping or popping . Tired of resetting it? Why is it tripping? White wire connected to a breaker White wire connected to a breaker When there is a white wire connected to a breaker and not the neutral bar, then the reason may be... “Double tapped” breaker “Double tapped” breaker When two wires / circuits are connected to one breaker, it may be "Double Tapped", what you do is ... Burn Marks on Electrical Breakers Can Be A Fire or Shock Concern Burn Marks on Electrical Breakers Can Be A Fire or Shock Concern Excessive heat or a defective breaker, may result in burn marks or a chard look. The best solution...