Here’s How Professionals Find and Fix These 10 Signs of a Faulty Electrical System

Your house’s electrical system operates your lights, key appliances, entertainment gadgets and anything else permanently connected or plugged into the wall. It’s highly inconvenient when something malfunctions, not to mention a possible safety hazard. Learn about the top 10 signs of a faulty electrical system and how to fix each issue.

1. Dimming, Flashing or Humming Lights

If your light fixtures regularly dim, flicker or buzz, your electric panel may be overloaded, or there could be a frayed wiring connection. Overloaded circuits create a fire hazard due to overheating wiring. To fix the problem, work on tightening or changing the problematic bulbs. If that doesn’t work, next replace the light switch or socket. For continued problems, particularly if a buzzing sound appears, call a professional so they can inspect your wiring and circuits.

2. Electrical Burning Odor

A burnt smell near outlets or appliances can come from overheating or burning wires, which in turn may cause an electrical fire. Immediately turn off power to the area by flipping the corresponding circuit breaker and unplug any devices connected to the outlet. Avoid using the outlet until you’ve had it professionally looked at and repaired.

3. Sparking or Scorched Outlets

If you see sparks when plugging in or unplugging something or notice scorch marks on your outlets, it’s a clear sign of damaged wiring or a short circuit. Sparks are most likely to appear if there’s exposed wires or a bad electrical connection, producing electrical arcing strong enough to cause severe burns, appliance damage and even an electrical fire. Stop using the outlet and switch off the specific circuit breaker. Have a local electrician examine and potentially replace the outlet, as they can safely find and resolve any potential wiring concerns.

4. Warm Outlets or Switch Plates

Outlets or switch plates that are getting hot to the touch may indicate circuit overloading or bad wiring. Heat accumulates in situations where excessive electricity comes into contact with wires that aren’t capable of safely handling the higher current, increasing the chance of an electrical fire. Unplug any devices from the affected outlet and turn off the circuit at the breaker. Contact an electrician so they can properly identify and fix the problem.

5. Too Much Dependence on Extension Cords

Extension cords are handy tools, but they should never be permanent solutions. Too much long-term use will sometimes lead to overloaded circuits or tripping breakers. If the electric doesn’t have enough outlets to meet your electrical needs, hire an electrician to install other outlets.

6. Loose Plugs

Plugs that constantly fall out of outlets are a sign of worn-out sockets. After a long time, the metal contact points within the outlet can wear away, impacting their ability to connect plugs firmly. Bad connections can lead to 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, contact a professional.

7. No GFCIs in Kitchens and Bathrooms

Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are mandatory for rooms exposed to moisture, primarily kitchens and bathrooms. If these spaces in your home lack GFCIs, you’re at a higher risk for electric shock if water reaches the outlet. The installation of GFCI outlets is a good idea for a DIY project if you’re comfortable with electrical work. That being said, calling a professional electrician ensures proper installation and safety compliance.

8. Frequently Tripped Circuit Breakers or Blown Fuses

Circuit breakers and fuses help safeguard your home by disconnecting power when the system overloads or a fault has been detected. If your home’s circuit breakers trip or fuses blow frequently, this means your electrical system may be unable to cope with that high of a power demand, which can also eventually lead to overheating and fire hazards. Minimize the risk of overloading by unplugging devices and reallocating the electrical load across different circuits. If the problem remains, have an electrician assess the entire system and upgrade your electrical panel or any wires when required.

9. Frayed or Visibly Damaged Wiring

Age, wear and tear or even a rat infestation can be the cause 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. Remove any damaged wiring you come across right away. This sort of repair project is best left to a licensed electrician.

10. Antiquated Wiring

Homes originally constructed in the late 1960s and early 1970s may have aluminum wiring, which oxidizes 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. Older electrical systems are less efficient and more vulnerable to overheating and sudden failure. Consider having your home rewired with modern copper wiring. This extensive job should be left to a licensed electrician, as they have the essential tools and experience for safety and code compliance.

Count on the Experts for Your Electrical Problems

Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning has a team of certified, insured electricians who can identify 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 notice signs of a faulty electrical system, contact us to arrange services in your area.